Senior Open Space Planner

About the role
Help shape the future of open space planning in Yarra Ranges
We’re hiring a Senior Open Space Planner.This is a senior strategic role for a planner who wants to influence how open space contributes to communities, landscapes and places across the Yarra Ranges. You’ll help shape planning, policy and project outcomes that affect how people connect with nature and experience public spaces.The role sits within our Design and Place department, where you’ll collaborate closely with strategic planning, urban design and landscape architecture to develop integrated, place-based solutions and strengthen the contribution of open space to creating great places.Combining strong analytical capability with creative and systems thinking, you’ll lead the development and delivery of a diverse portfolio of open space planning projects, translating strategic intent into practical, high-impact outcomes.
As a trusted advisor and thought leader, you’ll provide specialist advice across Council, embedding community need, environmental stewardship and climate resilience, inclusion, and Indigenous Ways of Knowing, Being and Doing into planning and decision-making.
This is a full-time, permanent position (38 hours per week).
This is a Band 7 role with a salary range between $110,534 and $123,686 per annum, plus superannuation.
Benefits of working with us:Support work-life balance with your choice of monthly or fortnightly rostered day off and hybrid working arrangements.20 weeks paid primary caregiver leave (6 weeks for secondary caregivers) plus other generous leave options such as volunteer leave, family planning, study assistance and menstrual and menopause leave.Opportunities for professional development and to take on temporary roles in other teams to grow your skills and experience.Novated lease vehicle options.

Experience and skills we’re looking for
Demonstrated experience in strategic and place-based open space planning, including strategy development, master planning and long-term infrastructure planning.A proactive, self-driven approach, working autonomously while keeping stakeholders informed.Strong analytical capability, with the ability to gather, interpret and synthesise demographic, spatial, environmental and community data, and translate findings into clear insights and practical recommendations.Ability to influence planning, policy or investment decisions through sound judgment, evidence-based advice and trusted professional relationships.Experience leading complex projects involving multiple stakeholders, competing priorities and changing circumstances.Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, including the ability to explain complex issues clearly, confidently engage with diverse stakeholders and community members, and build support for change.Knowledge of the Victorian planning system, legislative and statutory planning frameworks, and contemporary open space planning practice.
We recognise that great candidates don’t always meet every requirement. If you’re passionate about creating great places, have strong foundational skills, a willingness to learn, and are ready to step into a more strategic role, we’d love to hear from you.
How to applyPlease ensure you submit your application via our jobs portal by clicking ‘Apply’. Include a resume and cover letter with your application. In your cover letter, tell us about your experience, skills, and why you would like to work with us here at Yarra Ranges Council.
Applications close 11.59pm, Sunday 30 August 2026.
Contact person: Angelique Miller, Coordinator Open Space Strategy and Planning, 03 9294 6868If you need support with your application or have accessibility needs, please call the contact person above or email us at careers@yarraranges.vic.gov.au.
Applicants who progress past the interview stage must complete pre-employment checks. These checks will include a Police Check and Working with Children Check.
About Yarra Ranges CouncilYarra Ranges Council committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome. We encourage people of all genders, cultures, backgrounds, and abilities to apply for jobs with us. We support flexible work arrangements, including full-time, part-time, hybrid, and job-sharing options to meet your needs and suit your life. Yarra Ranges Council is a child safe organisation and is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people in our community. We are committed to protecting children from abuse in accordance with the Victorian Child Safe Standards.