3 months contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• The Senior Planning Officer plays a key role in delivering effective planning services across both Planning Policy and Development Management and Enforcement functions.
• The postholder will be responsible for leading and contributing to policy development, managing planning applications and enforcement cases, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality planning services in line with legislation, guidance, and corporate objectives.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Lead and manage projects and policy workstreams, including the preparation of key evidence documents and guidance to inform planning policy.
• Conduct research and analysis to support place shaping and local plan objectives.
• Prepare and deliver public consultation and engagement exercises, representing the planning service at meetings, exhibitions, and hearings.
• Provide policy advice on complex planning applications and support neighbourhood planning initiatives.
• Manage a caseload of significant planning applications and enforcement cases, including site inspections, stakeholder engagement, and decision recommendations.
• Prepare and present reports for planning committees and act as an expert witness at hearings or inquiries.
• Investigate alleged breaches of planning control and take appropriate enforcement action.
• Provide high-quality customer service and professional advice to applicants, agents, and internal stakeholders.
• Contribute to continuous service improvement and mentoring of junior staff.
Skills/Experience:
• Licentiate or Chartered Membership of the RTPI (or working towards).
• Strong understanding of the English planning system, including legislation and policy.
• Demonstrable experience in handling planning applications or policy projects.
• Ability to interpret policy documents, plans, and architectural drawings.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong organisational, negotiation, and time management skills.
• Experience using computerised planning systems and GIS.
• Ability to work independently, travel to multiple sites, and undertake site visits in varied outdoor environments.
Additional Information:
• Flexible on office attendance. Mostly WFH now. People need to come into the office to do their own site notices and site visits.
• A relevant degree or equivalent qualification allowing access to Chartered Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) or equivalent.
Remote / Work from Home
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