Planning Officer (Intermediate)

Posted: 25/08/2026

Closing Date: 25/09/2026

Job Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Alexandra

Job Category: Operations

Central Otago District Council is seeking a capable and motivated Intermediate Planner to join our Planning team.

This role offers the opportunity to apply your planning experience across a diverse range of urban, rural, subdivision and development proposals in one of New Zealand's most distinctive regions. You will contribute to high-quality planning outcomes while being supported by an experienced and collaborative team.

Key Responsibilities

Planning Officer Intermediate Job Description

As an Intermediate Planner within our Planning team, you will manage and process a varied portfolio of resource consent applications and provide sound planning advice to applicants, consultants, internal teams and the community.

The Role Will Include Work Across Areas Such As

• Urban and rural land use and subdivision developments
• Assessing effects and development implications for heritage buildings and heritage precincts
• Industrial, commercial and residential growth projects
• Planning matters relating to significant and outstanding natural landscapes
• Preparing clear planning reports, recommendations and correspondence
• Supporting hearings, pre-application discussions and inter-team collaboration as required

You will be expected to manage your own workload, exercise sound judgement and contribute positively to a team focused on practical, well-reasoned and customer-focused planning outcomes.

About You

Desired Skills and Experience

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Planning, Resource Management or a related field
• Demonstrated experience in resource management planning, ideally within local government or a similar regulatory environment
• A sound working knowledge of the Resource Management Act, district plans and the resource consent process
• Ability to assess environmental effects, interpret planning provisions and prepare clear, robust reports
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with confidence engaging with applicants, consultants, stakeholders and the public
• Good computer literacy and the ability to work effectively with planning and document management systems
• Excellent time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and statutory timeframes
• A solutions-focused approach, sound judgement and a willingness to contribute to a positive team culture
• Membership, or eligibility for membership, of the New Zealand Planning Institute would be an advantage

Benefits

• Dog friendly workplace
• An active social club
• Learning and development opportunities
• Supportive team culture
• Wellbeing programme
• Additional leave

Here at Central Otago District Council, we are a team with a common goal – to make a meaningful impact on our community and shaping the future of this remarkable region. Joining CODC means more than just finding a new workplace; it’s about becoming a part of a network of forward-thinking individuals who are passionate about creating a positive and enjoyable work environment every day.

As a values-based organisation, we centre our work on our whakataukī: ‘Me manaaki tētahi ki tētahi, me pakihiwitahi te tū – kia haere tahi ai tātou’ - Respect each other, stand shoulder to shoulder – So that we may travel on this journey together.

How To Apply

Ready to jump in? We’d love to meet you. Send us your resume and a short cover letter telling us why this role feels right for you. We’re reviewing applications as they come in, so don’t wait — take the next step today.

To apply please click apply now. All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal.

Applications close: 25/09/2026

Any enquiries about this role please email: ***email_hidden***