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• Build a Legacy: Lead transformative projects shaping the future of Port Moresby
• Grow Your Career in a dynamic urban environment
• Join a passionate team dedicated to a stronger, more vibrant capital.

NC Salary Grade: NC.09
Location: NCDC City Hall, Waigani, National Capital District
Reporting to: Physical Planner (Development Control)

About the National Capital District Commission (NCDC)

The National Capital District Commission (NCDC) is the statutory authority responsible for governing and managing Papua New Guinea’s capital city, Port Moresby.

Unlike other parts of PNG that fall under provincial administrations, Port Moresby sits within a unique administrative area – the National Capital District (NCD) established under its own Act of Parliament. The NCDC is mandated to plan, manage, regulate and shape the capital city on behalf of its residents, communities, and the nation as a whole.

As the gateway to Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby plays a critical national role. The NCDC’s responsibilities extend beyond routine municipal services to include city-wide planning, regulation, infrastructure coordination, social development, and institutional reform in a rapidly growing and complex urban environment.

About the Role

The Assistant Planner supports the Physical Planner (Development Control) in delivering NCDC’s physical planning initiatives, ensuring compliance with land use, zoning, building, and infrastructure regulations. The role assists in assessing planning applications, conducting site inspections, investigating complaints, and engaging with stakeholders. It plays a key role in facilitating orderly urban development, infrastructure planning, and sustainable land management while supporting efficient municipal operations.

Role Purpose

The role exists to provide operational and technical support in implementing physical planning projects, ensuring that all planning applications, inspections, and investigations meet regulatory standards. By maintaining accurate records, supporting policy implementation, and liaising with stakeholders, the Assistant Planner contributes to well-organized, compliant, and sustainable urban and infrastructure development in the National Capital District.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess and screen physical planning applications to ensure compliance with NCDC regulations, building codes, and land use legislation.
• Conduct routine inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial sites to monitor compliance with planning, building, and licensing standards.
• Investigate complaints and incidents related to land use, zoning, and planning, and recommend appropriate actions in line with established protocols.
• Issue infringement notices and enforce compliance where necessary, ensuring fairness and transparency.
• Support the development and implementation of physical planning policies, processes, and procedures.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, assessments, enforcement actions, and related documentation.
• Assist in research, data collection, and analysis for planning projects, including land use, transportation, and infrastructure assessments.
• Collaborate with internal branches and external stakeholders, including developers, government agencies, and utility providers, to facilitate effective planning outcomes.
• Respond to any other directions from the Physical Planner, Director, or City Manager in a timely manner.

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field. Master's degree an advantage
• Membership with the Institution of Engineers PNG or other professional Institutions.
• Driver’s License (minimum Class 3)

Skills & Knowledge

• Knowledge of urban planning, land use, infrastructure development, and regulatory compliance in the context of NCDC operations.
• Understanding of the Physical Planning Act, Building Act, Land Act, Environment Act, and NCDC policies and processes.
• Strong analytical, research, and data collection skills for assessing applications and planning projects.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to conduct inspections, investigations, and enforcement actions with integrity and professionalism.
• Proficiency in planning software, CAD tools, GIS, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure.
• Self-driven, disciplined, adaptable, and capable of working independently while supporting team objectives.
• Commitment to ethical conduct, transparency, and advancing NCDC’s vision for sustainable urban development.

Work Experience

• At least 3 – 5 years of experience in Physical Planning or related roles.

Why Join NCDC?

This role offers a unique opportunity to influence how data shapes the future of Papua New Guinea’s capital city. You will work at the centre of urban development, infrastructure planning, and service delivery—contributing to projects that leave a lasting legacy for Port Moresby.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you are passionate about data-driven decision-making and city transformation, we encourage you to apply.

How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to:

• Review the available roles and position requirements
• Prepare to upload relevant supporting documentation
  1. Cover Letter
  2. Up-to-date CV, include in the one file along with your CV: copies of educational qualifications and a copy of a valid driver's licence (if applicable)

Click on the "APPLY NOW" button and submit an application through the Peopleconnexion PNG application portal.

Open to Port Moresby residents only.

Due to volume of candidates, only short-listed candidates will be contacted regarding applicant progress.

Applications are assessed on merit, capability, and alignment with NCDC’s values and service mandate.

Be part of the team shaping the future of Port Moresby — apply today.

To Apply

To apply, email your CV and other relevant documentation to [email protected]. Please include the Job ID "#26722" in the email's subject to ensure your application is processed.