Want to join Mackay Regional Council and contribute to natural environment plans and projects that align with the goals of our community? We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Environmental Planner to join our environment and sustainability team. Be part of a collaborative environment committed to enhancing the liveability for our community through sustainable planning practices and taking care of our natural environment.
About this opportunity:
You will be responsible for the development of long term (strategic) planning of the natural environment and provide technical advice and support to plans and strategies that focus on planning and management of natural environment related assets.
Play a key role in leading best practice in planning for natural environment in collaboration with staff across Council and external NRM Groups.
Essential Qualifications, Experience & Skills:
To be eligible for this position you will:
* hold a tertiary qualification with substantial experience in a related field such as Environmental Science or Natural Resource Management
* have experience in long-term (strategic) planning of natural environment related assets, and knowledge of leading natural environment planning and management practices
* have strong communication and teamwork skills to work collaboratively
* skills in report writing, and ability to clearly articulate issues and propose solutions
* ability to work under limited supervision in managing projects and time effectively.
Why work for Mackay Regional Council?
Mackay Regional Council is a dynamic, progressive and financially sound local government. We have responsibility for $3.5 billion worth of assets and employ almost 1200 dedicated staff in a vibrant, rapidly growing region where sugar, mining, beef, tourism and retail drive the economy. Mackay is located halfway between Brisbane and Cairns and is truly the heart of Queensland, covering 7,622 square kilometres of rainforest, Natural Parks, historic townships, miles of golden beaches and more than 70 tropical islands. The Region boasts a vibrant economy offering an idyllic lifestyle on the Central Queensland coast, from picturesque beaches and nearby island resorts to beautiful rainforests. The Region has a great climate coupled with high quality education and health facilities.
Discover more about the Mackay Region
In addition to the above, we also offer the following benefits:
* Base annual salary from $107,933 + applicable allowances
* Up to 18% superannuation (conditions apply).
* Choice of 4 or 5 weeks' annual leave with 17.5% leave loading.
* Flexible work arrangements with a 9 day fortnight roster RDO.
* May be eligible for salary sacrificing options.
* Membership to lifestyle benefits program including corporate discounts.
* Study and assistance programs for career development.
* Learning and career development opportunities.
* Employee Assistance Program.
* Employee health and wellbeing initiatives.
* Active Social Clubs.
Want to know more about this role?
View the Position Description (PD) for this role in the document attachments or for a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Jaco Ackermann on
How to apply:
Prepare and submit your cover letter and resume, outlining your relevant experience for this role based on the requirements in the Position Description. If applying for this job via a 3rd party job board such as SEEK, LinkedIn etc. you will be redirected to the Mackay Regional Council Careers (eRecruit) website to apply. Follow the prompts to submit your application (the eRecruit Job Application Quick Reference Guide or theeRecruit Job Applicant Guide can assist).
After submitting, you will receive an automated confirmation email. Should you not receive this, please ensure you have submitted your application and your email address on your account is correct.
Applications Close: Thursday, 12 February 2026
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity This vacancy may close earlier than expected, so don't delay in submitting your application to avoid missing out.
Having troubles submitting your application?
Reach out to one of our friendly Recruitment Officers by phoning 1300 MACKAY
***Important information for applicants:
To be considered for this position, all candidates must have the appropriate working rights for Australia. Your Australian work rights will be verified during the recruitment process.
Applicants who progress beyond the interview stage will be required to undergo a pre-employment process, which includes comprehensive Pre-Employment Medical Assessments (inclusive of Drug and Alcohol testing)
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, where all applicants are treated fairly and respectfully and have equal access to all available opportunities. At Mackay Regional Council, diversity is about creating a respectful and inclusive workplace that recognises our employees' unique contributions and perspectives, working together to deliver extraordinary results.