Technical Officer

Requisition Number : 1156

Salary Range : $76,825.20 - $90,819.51 per annum

Position Type : Full Time, Permanent

Location : 119 – 145 Spence Street, Cairns

Application Close Date : Sunday 21 June 2026 at 11.30pm AEST

Join our Development & Planning team as a Technical Officer, where you’ll play a key role in delivering high-quality planning advice, supporting development assessment, and contributing to projects that shape our community.

What we’re looking for

We’re seeking a motivated and customer-focused professional with experience in a similar role or an administrative, support or office-role – ideally within the building, construction, planning or local government environment (we value your skills, not necessarily formal qualifications). An interest in the development sector – you don’t have to be an expert, but you should be eager to learn about planning related processes. Effective communication and negotiation skills, and ability to maintain effective working relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders. Comfortable working in a team, supporting across different functions, and able to organise tasks, meet deadlines and manage documentation. Motivated to develop, learn new technical knowledge (planning schemes, legislation, processes) – we’ll provide on the job training and mentoring so you can build the sector-specific skills you don’t yet have. Strong communication skills are essential, as you’ll be engaging with a wide range of stakeholders including Councillors, government agencies, industry representatives and the community. You’re organised, able to manage competing priorities and deadlines, and comfortable working both independently and as part of a collaborative team. A commitment to continuous improvement, problem-solving and delivering great customer service will see you succeed in this role. Relevant qualifications or experience in planning, along with a current driver’s licence, are required.

What you’ll be doing

• Provide planning related advice to internal and external stakeholders
• Assess development applications, liquor licensing requests, and other planning matters
• Prepare Planning & Development Certificates and related correspondence
• Respond to customer enquiries via phone, email and in person
• Undertake audits for compliance with approvals
• Support planning projects and contribute to process improvements
• Maintain accurate records in Council systems in line with policies
• Contribute to team outcomes and support broader Branch objectives

Some benefits we offer:

• Achieve work / life balance with flexible working arrangements
• Fitness Passport - subsidised health and well-being memberships (gym/swimming pool)
• Recharge with up to 5 weeks annual leave
• Up to 3 weeks personal leave
• Cherish family time with up to 14 weeks paid parental leave
• Salary sacrifice opportunities
• Grow personally and professionally with learning and development opportunities

We are committed to:

• Fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment
• Embracing innovation and continuous improvement
• Cultivating a culture of professional growth and support

Now we want to hear about YOU!

Applications MUST be submitted online through the ' Apply' button and include a Cover Letter addressing the selection criteria and Resume outlining previous academic and work experience and if requested include attachments of the relevant qualifications and licenses, relating to the role.

For further information about this role please download the Position Description which includes the Key Duties, Responsibilities and Selection Criteria.

Council’s Recruitment Team can be contacted via:

Phone: (07) 4044 3310

Email: [email protected]

Website: Employment at Council | Cairns Regional Council