Assistant Director, Schools Planning | Full-time Temporary

 
Full job description
Closes: 20 February 2026
Classification: Senior Officer Grade C
Salary: $127,597 - $136,873 plus superannuation
Position No: 13746
Directorate: Education
Advertised (Gazettal date): 13 February 2026
Contact Officer: Andrew Golden on Andrew.Golden@act.gov.au or (02) 6207 9053


Details: Are you interested in ensuring we provide schools in the right place, at the right time? The ACT public education system has been growing at a rapid pace and is projected to continue growing over the next decade. We are looking for an enthusiastic Assistant Director to provide policy and technical advice, focusing mainly on planning for the school infrastructure needs for the next decade.

You will assist with the research and development of new governance and public policy processes to deliver options in response to planned increases in urban densification within Canberra, undertake timely reviews of planning and development matters on behalf of the Directorate as a referral entity and stakeholder, identify sites for new and expanded schools and interpret and use student demand projections for corresponding school planning.

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where people with diverse thoughts, lived experience, and perspectives can thrive and contribute their unique talents to the ACT Public Service (ACTPS) and ACT community. We encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, veterans, younger and older workers, and people with diverse genders, sexes and sexualities to apply.

Eligibility/Other requirements: The following capabilities form the criteria that are required to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position.

Professional and Technical Skills and Knowledge

Demonstrated understanding of land use planning, release area and development processes as they may relate to the delivery of education facilities.
The ability to contribute to master planning and strategic planning processes for development within both greenfield and established urban areas.
Demonstrated capability in project management, secretariat support, communication (written and verbal) to support planning for education facilities.
Ability to coordinate procurement and contract management processes, including working with and managing consultants to deliver projects on time.
Strong analytical, research and policy development skills, including the ability to provide strategic advice on complex schools planning and policy issues.
Behavioural Capabilities

Proven ability to work in a team environment, establish, liaise and maintain effective working relationships with a range of stakeholders, and represent the work area.
Demonstrated commitment to applying the ACT Public Service values of collaboration, respect, integrity and innovation.
Compliance Requirements / Qualifications

Relevant tertiary qualifications in urban/town planning, urban design, architecture, or a related field are highly desirable.
Knowledge of and ability to use TRIM Electronic Document Record System, Microsoft Teams and SharePoint would be an advantage.
This position does not require a pre-employment medical or a Working with Vulnerable People Check.
Notes: This is a temporary position available immediately for a period of three months with the possibility of extension up to six months. This position is available to ACT Government officers and employees only.

Selection may be based on application and referee reports only.

This position is assigned to a new workplace designed for activity-based working (ABW). Under ABW arrangements, officers will not have a designated workstation/desk.

How to apply: Applicants are asked to submit a one-page pitch, a current curriculum vitae and details of two referees by the due date.

Applications should be submitted .

Where an offer of employment is for a fixed-term period, any related temporary contracts within the Territory will be issued in compliance with the requirements and applicable exceptions outlined in the Fair Work Act.

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Note
This is a temporary position available immediately for a period of three months with the possibility of extension up to six months. This position is available to ACT Government officers and employees only.