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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.12
Location: NCDC City Hall, Waigani, National Capital District
Reporting to: Manager – Urban Planning


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 Urban Planner (Social) is a professional planning role responsible for integrating social development considerations into urban planning, land use policies, and development assessments across the National Capital District. The role supports inclusive and equitable urban growth by ensuring social impacts related to housing, access to services, safety, and community wellbeing are incorporated into statutory and strategic planning processes. Working closely with internal NCDC branches, government agencies, and community stakeholders, the role contributes to coordinated planning outcomes that respond to the needs of both formal and informal settlements.


Role Purpose

The primary purpose of the Urban Planner (Social) is to support the development and implementation of urban planning frameworks that promote social inclusion, equity, and liveability. The role provides social planning input into urban development plans, development assessments, and policy initiatives, with a focus on vulnerable populations and access to social infrastructure such as health, education, justice, recreational, and cultural facilities. Through collaboration, data analysis, and community engagement, the role contributes to shaping a socially resilient, well-serviced, and sustainable city aligned with NCDC’s broader development vision.


Key Responsibilities

• Provide social planning support through effective internal coordination, reporting, and contribution to workplans, meetings, and planning documentation in line with NCDC policies and performance requirements.
• Integrate social considerations into urban development plans, development assessments, and statutory planning processes by analysing social impacts, land use trends, and demographic data, and preparing inputs for Planning Board and internal decision-making.
• Engage communities, internal branches, and external stakeholders to support inclusive planning outcomes; maintain social planning data and records; and assist with consultant coordination and small-scale procurement in accordance with NCDC and PFMA guidelines.

Education & Qualifications

• Minimum: Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning, Social Policy, Community Development, or a related field, combined with relevant professional training in planning, consultation, or data analysis.
• Preferred: Bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning, Physical Planning, Human Geography, Social Policy, or a closely related field from a recognised institution.
• Preferred: Eligible for membership with a recognised planning or community development body (e.g., PNG Institute of Planners or similar professional organisation)

Skills & Knowledge

• Knowledge of relevant legislation, or willingness to acquire knowledge of: Physical Planning Act (1989 & 2001), Physical Planning Regulation (2007), Land Act (1996), NCDC Act (2001), and Public Procurement Act (2021).
• Understanding of informal settlements, customary land tenure, and urban social issues in the Port Moresby context.
• Knowledge of land use planning, zoning processes, and their social implications in a rapidly urbanising environment.
• Familiarity with consultation practices, stakeholder engagement, and participatory planning methods.
• Understanding of how urban planning intersects with social infrastructure, public health, gender equity, and community development.
• Social and Urban Planning Practice: Demonstrated ability to contribute to land use planning, policy preparation, and social assessments in urban contexts.
• Analytical and Research Skills: Able to interpret demographic and socio-economic data to inform inclusive planning proposals.
• Communication and Stakeholder Engagement: Strong interpersonal and written communication skills for working with communities, social groups, and internal teams.
• Regulatory Interpretation: Ability to understand and apply planning policies, legislation, and zoning schemes.
• Technical Proficiency: Competent in using planning and data tools such as GIS, mapping platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Professionalism and Public Sector Values: Demonstrated integrity, discretion, and commitment to ethical standards and community service.

Work Experience

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in urban planning, social planning, or community development within a public sector or municipal environment.
• Experience in preparing or contributing to development plans, policy documents, and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Prior involvement in projects addressing housing, informal settlements, gender equity, or social infrastructure is highly desirable.
• Experience working with multidisciplinary teams, community stakeholders, or consultants in an urban development context is an advantage.

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 "#25991" in the email's subject to ensure your application is processed.