Mount Peter PDA Development Manager Requisition Number: 1079Salary Range: $136,819.79 - $147,789.26 per annumPosition Type: Full Time, Temporary to 1 April 2028Location: 119 – 145 Spence Street, CairnsApplication Close Date: Sunday 12 April AEST
Drive one of the region’s most significant growth areas by leading integrated planning, infrastructure coordination, and high‑quality development outcomes for the Mount Peter Priority Development Area.
What we’re looking forWe’re seeking an experienced development or planning professional with a strong background in coordinating complex, large‑scale planning or land development projects. You’ll bring a solid understanding of planning and development processes, ideally including PDAs or State‑led frameworks and the ability to navigate technical, political, and governance environments with confidence. Your strengths include stakeholder engagement, negotiation and clear communication, allowing you to influence diverse groups ranging from government agencies to developers. You understand the commercial and infrastructure considerations that underpin successful development and have experience working across multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated outcomes. Collaborative, solutions‑focused and adaptable, you’re someone who can balance competing priorities while driving quality urban design, strong built‑form outcomes and aligned infrastructure delivery.
What you’ll be doingLeading and coordinating Council’s whole‑of‑organisation involvement in the Mount Peter Priority Development Area.Acting as Council’s primary liaison with EDQ, developers, industry and internal stakeholders.Providing strategic coordination across business units to ensure consistent, timely input into planning and development processes.Influencing positive urban design outcomes and ensuring infrastructure delivery is aligned and post‑approval activities including infrastructure delivery, conditions management and handover processes.Participating in pre‑lodgement meetings, negotiations and technical workshops to achieve quality development outcomes.Monitoring development progress, risks and staging and preparing reports and advice for senior management and Council.Identifying infrastructure needs and advising on timing, cost implications and capital planning priorities.Recommending process improvements and contributing to a responsive, customer‑focused development approach.Building strong internal and external relationships to support efficient project delivery.
Some benefits we offer:Achieve work / life balance with flexible working arrangementsFitness Passport - subsidised health and well-being memberships (gym/swimming pool)Recharge with up to 5 weeks annual leaveUp to 3 weeks personal leaveCherish family time with up to 14 weeks paid parental leaveSalary sacrifice opportunitiesGrow personally and professionally with learning and development opportunitiesRelocation assistance may be available for preferred candidates.
We are committed to:Fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environmentEmbracing innovation and continuous improvementCultivating 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 3310Email: : Employment at Council | Cairns Regional Council