Planning & Approvals Specialist

About AARNet

Australia’s Academic and Research Network (AARNet), founded in 1989, has played a pivotal role in shaping Australia’s digital landscape as the pioneers of the country’s Internet. Our mission extends beyond mere connectivity; we are the architects, builders, and operators of a world-class network infrastructure that fuels critical research and learning. At AARNet, innovation thrives within a vibrant community

The Role

As part of its dedication to providing world-class infrastructure to support the research and education sector across Australia, AARNet has committed to extending its fibre optic cable footprint to reach new locations across the country. We are passionate about building a high-quality telecommunications network that will support the next generation of educators, researchers and students into the future.

We are seeking a Planning & Approvals Specialist to join the Infrastructure Development team. This role focuses on obtaining & coordinating the delivery of regulatory approvals, working with internal and external stakeholders to secure land access, ensuring cultural heritage due diligence & environmental compliance for AARNet’s optical fibre construction projects in accordance with legal requirements.

The Planning and Approvals team is an essential driver for AARNet’s infrastructure pipeline and delivery targets. Risk minimization and management will form a core part of this role to ensure projects meet requirements and are planned efficiently. Your ability to propel resolutions by influencing & networking positive outcomes will be supported by your excellent negotiation capabilities and honed communications skills.

You’ll be able to work well in teams and autonomously, have excellent negotiation skills and a confident and easy communication style.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities will include:

• Project Approvals: Assist in obtaining project approvals, permits & permissions, including environmental, Native Title, and cultural heritage agreements for AARNet’s telecommunications infrastructure.
• Risk Management: Support ongoing project compliance to minimise risk and legal exposure by
• Assisting with environmental due diligence assessment and reports
• Ensuring contractors understand obligations.
• Providing basic project environmental advice, supervision and auditing
• Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with appropriate local, state, and federal authorities, Registered Aboriginal Parties and key landowners for fibre optic cable construction. Overseeing the engagement and management of environment and heritage consultants where required
• Professional Guidance: Provide support and environmental and cultural advice to project teams during the design, construction and operation of Telecommunications Assets.
• Conflict Resolution: Assist in resolving issues and negotiating conditions
• Reporting: Produce draft and final reports on the conduct and results of heritage surveys and related documents.
• Framework: Support the implementation of AARNet’s internal framework for approvals and Cultural Heritage management, ensuring the sustainability and strategic alignment of all approval processes.

 Expertise, experience & qualifications

• Australian Citizen
• A tertiary degree in Town Planning, Project Management or related field (Highly Desirable)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong time management & planning skills
• Experience working on approvals within the construction industry will be highly regarded
• Strong interpersonal, communication and negotiation skills
• Solid understanding of environmental planning and relevant legislation
• Some knowledge of construction techniques for telecommunications projects is a plus.
• Previous experience with telecommunications/fibre optic planning will be highly desirable.

Why Work at AARNet?

At AARNet, we’re passionate about advancing global education and critical research. Our Australia-wide network, with global reach, supports some of the most demanding network-based applications. If you’re looking for a purpose-driven workplace where you can make a difference, consider joining our team.

Make an impact: By working with us, you’ll directly contribute to critical research in fields like astronomy, physics, earth observation, environment, health, and medicine. Our mission matters, and we’re committed to providing equal opportunities for all.

 Competitive Benefits and Conditions:

• Superannuation: Enjoy a 17% superannuation contribution.
• Parental/Adoption Leave: We offer 24 weeks of paid parental leave and superannuation top-up.
• Secondary Carer Leave: 16 weeks of paid parental leave for secondary caregivers.
• Wellness Leave: 2 days per month paid Women’s wellness leave.
• Family & Domestic Violence Leave: 20 days of paid leave.
• Other Supportive Leaves: Paid leave for various life events such as weddings, deaths, trauma, and disasters.
• Purchased Leave: Options to purchase additional Annual Leave.
• Flexible Work Options: We support work-life balance.
• Equal Opportunity Focus: We value diversity and inclusion.
• Social Responsibility and Ethics: We lead by example.
• Cutting-Edge Technologies: Access to work with the latest industry technology.