Principal Learning & Development

Level 8 - $149,509 per annum plus superannuation ($127,509 base salary + $22,000 Port Hedland Allowance), Plus Town-provided housing, vehicle, utilities assistance and relocation support Permanent | Full-Time | Leadership Opportunity | Port Hedland-based The Town

The Town of Port Hedland is one of Australia's most significant regional local governments, serving a diverse and dynamic community in the heart of the Pilbara.

We are seeking an experienced Principal Learning & Development to lead the delivery of learning, leadership and workforce capability initiatives that support employee growth, workforce sustainability and organisational performance.

The Role

Reporting to the Manager Human Resources, the Principal Learning & Development leads the Town's Learning & Development function and a dedicated Learning & Development team. Working closely with leaders across the organisation, you will develop and implement learning, leadership, talent and workforce capability initiatives that strengthen organisational capability and support organisational priorities.

This is a hands-on leadership role that combines people leadership, stakeholder engagement, program delivery and continuous improvement. The successful applicant will translate organisational priorities into practical initiatives that deliver measurable outcomes for employees, leaders and the organisation.

Key Responsibility Include

• Lead, coach and develop the Learning & Development team.
• Develop and deliver learning, leadership and workforce capability programs, including oversight of the Town's corporate learning calendar.
• Implement succession planning, career pathway, talent development and employee development initiatives.
• Lead graduate, trainee, apprenticeship and emerging talent programs.
• Identify capability gaps and workforce development opportunities.
• Provide specialist advice and coaching to leaders.
• Support organisational development, employee engagement and retention initiatives

Work Related Requirements

Preferred Required The preferred applicant will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug and alcohol assessment to be considered for the role, as well as possess:

• Relevant tertiary qualification in HR, Learning & Development, Organisational Development or related discipline.
• Significant experience in a Learning & Development, Organisational Development or Workforce Capability role with responsibility for leading people, programs or projects.
• Experience developing and delivering capability or leadership programs.
• Experience in succession planning, talent management or workforce development initiatives.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, communication and project management skills.
• Current C Class Driver's Licence.
• National Police Clearance (or ability to obtain).

Employee Benefits

In addition to the salary our employees enjoy a range of benefits which may include:

• Housing and Utilities Assistance
• Relocation assistance up to $10,000
• Six weeks annual leave with 17.5% leave loading
• Wellness program (includes free gym membership, pool passes etc.)
• 14 Weeks paid parental leave
• Professional development opportunities
• Access to Employee Assistance Program
• State subsidised regional flights and much more!

How to Apply

Applicants are to apply online.

If you are unable to apply online, please contact .au

Applicants are advised to write a cover letter of no more than two (2) pages outlining how your relevant skills, capabilities and experience will contribute to their success in this position. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure their application is received in full prior to the closing date and time.

Suitable applicants may be considered for appointment to similar vacancies during the six-month period following the conclusion of this recruitment process.

For further information about this position please contact the Talent Acquisition Team via .au or (08) 9158 9300.

The Town reserves the right to commence shortlisting prior to the closing date.

Applications close at 9:00 AM on Monday, 2 November 2026

The Town of Port Hedland is committed to eliminating all forms of discrimination. We embrace diversity and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally diverse backgrounds and people living with disabilities.