Senior / Principal Environmental Planner 

With a strong nationwide presence and a people-focused culture, we’re proud to offer a workplace that values creativity, collaboration, and meaningful impact.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior or Principal Environmental Planner to join our growing team in Napier. This role is ideal for someone with 8+ years of experience who is ready to take a leadership role in shaping our RMA Planning services, guiding project delivery, and mentoring junior team members.

About the role

As a member of our planning team, you’ll:

• Lead planning assessments to support resource consents, investigations, due diligence, and plan-making/policy development.
• Prepare submissions on regional and territorial authority planning documents, national policy statements, and national environmental standards.
• Liaise with regional and territorial authority staff and other stakeholders.
• Manage projects and regulatory engagement, supporting clients through complex planning processes.
• Compile and coordinate AEEs, management plans, and planning strategies.
• Take responsibility to lead and deliver consultation, community, and stakeholder engagement.
• Supervise and coach junior planners, contributing to team development and capability building.
• Prepare and present technical papers at industry conferences.
• Prepare bids and offers of service and engage and bring value to our clients.

What you’ll bring

• A degree (preferably Master’s) in RMA Planning, Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years’ experience in consulting or local government planning environments.
• Strong communication skills – written, verbal, and interpersonal.
• Proven ability to work across multi-disciplinary teams including scientists, engineers, and ecologists.
• A collaborative, team-oriented approach and a passion for mentoring others.

What we offer

• A comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, income protection, salary top-up for parental leave, and the option to purchase additional annual leave.
• A flexible and hybrid working culture that supports work-life balance.
• Professional development opportunities, including support for further training and education, and fully subsidised membership fees.
• The chance to work on projects that make a real difference to our environment.
• A vibrant, inclusive workplace that values diversity and collaboration.

About Us

PDP is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading environmental science, engineering, planning and advisory consultancies. We care deeply about our environment and work in ways that meet today’s needs while providing for future generations. With nearly 40 years of experience across New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, we are proud to be employee-owned and operated. Our team delivers innovative solutions across air, land, and water projects, consistently exceeding client expectations.