About SGS

An urban and public policy consultancy and certified B Corp with high standards of accountability and transparency, we play a critical role as independent and trusted advisors to government and organisations that shape Australia’s cities and regions. Our robust, evidence-based insights help government, business and community leaders understand how places and communities function, assess what projects and programs work, and plan future places and precincts. Beyond advisory services, we hold workshops and courses to share knowledge collaboratively.

The opportunity

We are seeking a Consultant to deliver independent policy advice on planning, economic, social, and environmental issues. In this role, you will collaborate with a range of clients to understand their challenges and provide tailored, evidence-based solutions through reports, data visualisations, or stakeholder engagement.

You will work in a multidisciplinary team of economists, social planners, and spatial analysts, with a focus on projects related to funding infrastructure and programs and informing investment decisions. Your work will include literature reviews, stakeholder interviews, demographic analysis and projections and economic forecasting and analysis. You will communicate your findings in written reports, presentations, visualisations and dashboards This is a permanent full-time role, ideally based in our Melbourne office, but we are open to candidates in our Sydney office.

Your strong economic analysis skills and ability to translate technical analysis into clear, compelling insights will help shape impactful recommendations for our clients and contribute to more equitable and sustainable cities and regions.

A bit about you

You have 2-3 years professional experience, ideally in a consulting role or working in a project team, with qualifications in economics and experience in public policy or social science contexts. You will bring a strong mix of the following skills and expertise:

• Experience applying economic principles such as supply and demand analysis and forecasting, financial appraisals, economic appraisal, social and economic impact assessments.
• A great communicator with the ability to make sense of complex ideas and data, creating clear and actionable solutions and recommendations for our clients.
• Familiarity with major ABS, industry and economic datasets.
• Quantitative data analysis skills, with experience in spatial analysis particularly encouraged.
• An understanding of urban and regional economic development concepts.
• The ability to work independently on multiple projects, stay organised to meet deadlines and communicate proactively to ensure efficient delivery.
• Thrive working in a team, communicating clearly and regularly with technical and non-technical colleagues, sharing ideas and knowledge, and collaborating to achieve the best outcomes for the project and our clients.

You will also have strong skills in the MS Office suite, particularly Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Experience with software such as R, Python, SAS, ARCGIS and/or QGIS will be viewed favourably.

What we offer

At SGS Economics and Planning, we are driven by a shared vision to create more sustainable, equitable and vibrant communities. We foster a dynamic, inclusive environment where diversity, creativity, and continuous learning are valued. Our team works on projects that make an impact, shaping the future of cities and regions. We provide a supportive culture where everyone’s contributions are valued and professional growth is encouraged, including by leading projects, designing innovative methodological approaches and authoring articles, papers and presentations. By collaborating with industry leaders and engaging in innovative thought leadership, our team finds purpose and fulfilment in their work. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected and empowered to excel. With a truly flexible working environment, we empower our people to work as they need to deliver at their best.

How to apply

Please submit your resume and a 1-page cover letter explaining how you meet the requirements.

If you're excited about this opportunity but unsure whether you meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply.

We will be reviewing applications as they are received, therefore this role may closer sooner if we find the right candidate. Do not delay to ensure you don’t miss out.

SGS are an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we encourage people with diverse backgrounds including people with disability, LGBTQIA+ people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply.

Applicants must have valid working rights in Australia.