About the Role
Shape the future of one of Queensland’s most remarkable places.
Douglas Shire Council is seeking an experienced Strategic Projects Lead to lead the planning and delivery of complex projects that support the long-term future of the Douglas Shire.
This is an exciting opportunity to work across strategy, infrastructure, planning, community, environment and economic development, providing strategic advice and project leadership to turn priorities into practical outcomes.
You will work with Council’s leadership team, elected members, government agencies, consultants, industry and the community to develop solutions to some of the unique challenges facing the region.
Why Douglas Shire?
There are jobs you take for your career, and there are jobs that give you the opportunity to change your lifestyle as well. This can be both. The Douglas Shire is an extraordinary place to live and work, stretching from Port Douglas and Mossman to the Daintree and Cape Tribulation, with the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage areas on your doorstep.
When you’re not working, you can enjoy:
- World-class beaches and tropical rainforest
- The Great Barrier Reef and incredible outdoor experiences
- Fishing, boating, hiking, swimming and exploring
- The restaurants, cafes and lifestyle of Port Douglas
- A relaxed tropical lifestyle and strong local community
While millions of people visit the Douglas Shire each year for a holiday, you have the opportunity to call it home and help shape what comes next. The region is undergoing an important period of change, including the transition of the local economy following the closure of the Mossman Mill, creating new opportunities for economic diversification, growth and investment. Alongside this are the challenges of planning for infrastructure, housing, community needs, environmental values and resilience — making this an exciting time to join Council and play a meaningful role in shaping the Shire’s future.
About You
We are looking for someone who enjoys solving complex problems, working collaboratively and turning strategic ideas into practical outcomes.
You will ideally have:
- Relevant qualifications in Project Management, Business, Planning, Engineering, Economics or a related discipline, or significant equivalent experience
- Demonstrated experience leading complex strategic projects and managing multiple stakeholders
- Strong strategic thinking, analytical and problem-solving skills
- Experience developing strategic plans, feasibility studies, business cases or similar
- Strong project management, governance and communication skills
- Experience working with government, consultants, industry and community stakeholders
- The ability to manage competing priorities and drive projects through to delivery
- A current Class C Driver Licence
Applications close: 5pm Friday 6 November 2026
