If you’re driven to contribute to the development and planning of communities, the Regional Town Planner Vacancy at the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA) in Northern Cape offers a significant opportunity. This role focuses on the strategic development of urban and regional spaces, promoting sustainable and inclusive growth.
Overview of the Regional Town Planner Vacancy
- Position: Town & Regional Planner, Grade A
- Reference Number: HS 3/03/2024
- Location: Provincial Office, Larry Moleko Louw Building, Kimberley
- Salary: R687,879 per annum (all-inclusive salary package)
- Closing Date: 19 April 2024
Requirements for the Regional Town Planner Vacancy
To be considered for the Regional Town Planner Vacancy, candidates must satisfy the following:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Urban/Town and Regional Planning or a relevant qualification.
- At least three years post-qualification experience in town and regional planning.
- Compulsory registration with SACPLAN as a professional Town and Regional Planner on appointment.
- Thorough knowledge of various aspects of town planning and regional planning, and built environment legislation/policies.
- A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel extensively are required.
Skills and Competences
The successful candidate for the Regional Town Planner Vacancy will demonstrate:
- Expertise in Programme and Project Management:
The candidate must be adept at overseeing multiple projects from inception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and budget. Strong project management skills include planning, delegating, tracking progress, and maintaining comprehensive project documentation. - Proficiency in Town and Regional Planning Principles and Methodologies:
A deep understanding of the principles that govern sustainable town and regional planning, including spatial planning, land use management, and community development, is essential. The candidate should be skilled in applying these principles to real-world scenarios. - Skills in Technical Consulting and the Use of Computer-Aided Applications:
Technical consulting skills are necessary for advising municipalities and other stakeholders on planning matters. Additionally, proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools is crucial for drafting and visualizing urban and regional plans effectively. - Strong Capabilities in Research, Development, and Analytical Thinking:
The role requires ongoing research into new trends, policies, and technologies in urban planning. Analytical skills are vital for interpreting data correctly and making informed decisions based on that data. - Excellent Interpersonal, Presentation, and Facilitation Skills:
The ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, from government officials to community members, is crucial. This includes presenting complex information in an understandable manner and facilitating discussions and workshops to gather input and build consensus. - Financial Management, Creativity, Decision-Making Abilities:
Financial acumen is needed to manage budgets and ensure the cost-effective use of resources. Creativity will allow the planner to develop innovative solutions to planning challenges. Strong decision-making skills are essential to choose the best course of action among alternatives. - In-Depth Knowledge of Relevant Legislation:
Thorough knowledge of the laws and regulations affecting town and regional planning in South Africa, such as the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, is necessary. This includes staying updated on all amendments and understanding how they impact planning processes. - Adaptability and Resilience:
The urban landscape is continuously evolving, requiring adaptability in responding to changes and resilience in overcoming challenges that arise during the planning process. - Leadership and Team Collaboration:
Effective leadership skills to guide and motivate a team of planners and support staff are crucial. Collaboration across departments and with external stakeholders is often necessary to achieve comprehensive planning outcomes. - Ethical Integrity and Professionalism:
The candidate must uphold the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency and fairness in all planning processes, respecting community input, and avoiding conflicts of interest.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The individual filling the Regional Town Planner Vacancy will handle tasks such as:
- Evaluating town planning business plans within the regions.
- Facilitating contracts, recommending fund allocations, and reporting on expenditures.
- Providing town planning support to municipalities to enhance housing delivery.
- Managing projects related to human settlements development.
- Facilitating land acquisition and upgrading of informal settlements.
- Ensuring compliance with applicable legislation and town and regional planning standards.
How to Apply for the Regional Town Planner Vacancy
- To apply for the Regional Town Planner Vacancy, please use the new Z83 application form.
- Your application should include a detailed CV emphasizing your town planning experience.
Submission Options:
- Mail: The Head of Department, Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Private Bag X5005, Kimberley, 8300.
- Hand Delivery: 9 Cecil Sussman Road, Larry Moleko Louw Building, Kimberley.
- Email: applications@nccoghsta.onmicrosoft.com.
Selection Process for the Regional Town Planner Vacancy
Candidates shortlisted for the Regional Town Planner Vacancy will undergo suitability checks and security vetting. The final appointment will depend on the positive outcomes of these processes, and the successful candidate will need to sign an employment contract and an annual performance agreement.
Additional Information
The Department emphasizes equal opportunity and encourages applications from women and persons with disabilities for the Regional Town Planner Vacancy. Should you not receive any feedback within three months post the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Related: Registering on the ESSA Labour Database for Government Jobs
This Regional Town Planner Vacancy presents a valuable chance to impact the urban and regional development of Northern Cape. If you have the qualifications and are passionate about urban planning, don’t hesitate to apply for this role.