PROFESSIONAL TOWN AND REGIONAL PLANNER GRADE A-C (X5 POSTS)

This vacancy is for a Professional Town and Regional Planner at Grade A, B, or C, and it is an Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) position within the KwaZulu-Natal provincial administration. A total of five posts are available, each based in a different district: eThekwini North, iLembe, Amajuba, King Cetshwayo, and uMgungundlovu. This means successful candidates will be placed across both metropolitan and district municipal contexts, working within the provincial planning framework. The role is a demanding but rewarding professional position for planners who are already registered or eligible for registration with the South African Council for the Planning Profession (SACPLAN).

Candidates must hold a degree in Urban, Town and Regional Planning, or an equivalent relevant qualification, and must be registered with SACPLAN as a Professional Town and Regional Planner at the time of appointment. A minimum of three years of post-qualification experience in town and regional planning is required, alongside a valid unexpired driver’s licence. The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong knowledge of programme and project management, planning principles and methodologies, and legal compliance within the planning environment. Additional competencies include technical consulting, professional judgement, research and development, computer-aided applications, and report writing. Personal effectiveness skills such as problem solving, decision making, networking, self-management, creativity, and customer focus are also essential, as is the ability to work in teams, communicate clearly, and plan and organise work efficiently.

The successful candidate will be responsible for several core outcomes. These include ensuring that town and regional planning principles are properly applied in land development processes, managing office administration and contributing to budget planning, and supporting human capital development within the planning function. The role also involves conducting research and development activities to inform planning decisions and improve service delivery. In essence, the planner will act as a technical expert who ensures that spatial development aligns with legislation, policies, and sound professional practice.

Applicants should note that this is a government circular vacancy, and specific application instructions and closing details are provided in the original circular. A notable condition is that if you wish to apply for more than one district post, you must submit a separate application form for each district. Enquiries regarding the position may be directed to the contact person named in the circular. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced, registered professional planners who are looking to contribute to spatial transformation and sustainable development within KwaZulu-Natal’s diverse districts. The OSD grading indicates a structured career path with recognised professional status. Be sure to verify all requirements and submit your application correctly before the stated deadline.