Planner & Assistant Development Manager

This is an opportunity for a statutory town planner or assistant development manager to transition client-side. Joining a privately owned, end-to-end developer and builder with a 30-year track record in Sydney, you will focus on the commercial reality of property development rather than advisory consulting. Working directly alongside the Head of Planning, this role is designed for a hands-on professional involved in the project lifecycle from initial site prospecting through to sales and strata processes. The pipeline consists of multi-unit residential and mixed-use developments ranging from 60 to 600 apartments, including build-to-rent assets. The business operates on a flat, non-hierarchical structure with a long-tenured team and a focus on merit-based advancement. Key Responsibilities: • Compile and submit concept and detailed Development Applications, including preparing SEEs. • Navigate council approvals, manage post-approval conditions, and process CDC and modification applications against commercial objectives. • Liaise and negotiate directly with local council planners, assessment officers, and government agencies. • Review and coordinate external consultants, architectural plans, and technical reports from pre-DA through to construction. • Manage documentation via the NSW Planning Portal and monitor compliance during the construction phase. • Coordinate public domain, subdivision, and strata works while interfacing with the in-house construction division. • Identify value-add opportunities and assist the team with project administration. Skills & Experience: • Professional planning experience within the NSW framework, coming from a consultancy or local government background. • Proficiency using the NSW Planning Portal to manage applications. • Understanding of building economics and how design documentation translates to a live construction site. • Pragmatic approach with the ability to work full-time in a collaborative, in-office environment. • Strong career stability and tenure, with a desire to grow long-term into broader development management. Benefits & Culture: • Move client-side with a fully self-funded developer and builder managing the entire project lifecycle in-house. • Work on mid-rise and high-density residential projects across Greater Sydney ranging up to 600 units. • Operate in a flat environment without corporate politics or formal board approvals. • Step into a stable business featuring high staff retention and an active pipeline of future sites. • Receive competitive remuneration that aligns with performance and professional development.