At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning administration, manage a team, and improve processes in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Dartmoor National Park Authority, dedicated to conserving natural beauty and supporting local communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, career progression, generous leave, and perks like a cycle scheme and free parking.
- Why this job: This role offers growth opportunities, a supportive culture, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Organised, proactive, with admin experience; knowledge of planning policy is a plus.
- Other info: Work in a stunning location with access to training and mentoring for professional development.
The predicted salary is between 24600 - 29200 £ per year.
Dartmoor National Park Authority works in partnership with local and national stakeholders to conserve and enhance Dartmoor as a vibrant, living, working landscape and community teeming with natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage. We promote opportunities for the public to understand and enjoy the special qualities of Dartmoor National Park, whilst also promoting the economic and social wellbeing of local communities.
We are now looking for a Senior Planning Administration Officer to join our team on a full-time, permanent basis, working 37 hours per week.
The Benefits
- Salary of £28,624 - £32,654 per annum (pay award pending)
- A clear path for career development and support for CPD
- Comprehensive training and mentoring to grow into a Grade 5 role
- Generous annual leave and flexitime policies
- Cycle to work scheme
- Access to electric vehicle pool car fleet
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Beautiful office location on National Trust estate, with free parking and café on site
- Discounts at National Park Visitor Centres and car parks on Dartmoor
The Role
We’re looking to appoint a Senior Planning Administration Officer to lead the delivery of high-quality technical and administrative support across our busy Development Management service. The successful candidate will be appointed at Grade 4, with the opportunity to progress to Grade 5 as they develop their knowledge of planning legislation and demonstrate continued professional development.
This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual looking for career progression in planning administration. With the right commitment to learning and development, you’ll be supported to grow into the full scope of the role.
As a Senior Planning Administration Officer, you will oversee the co-ordination of all planning-related administrative enquiries, ensure effective workflow management, excellent customer service, and the continuous improvement of administrative processes that support the whole planning service.
Additionally, you will:
- Line manage the small team of Planning Administration Officers
- Support quality control and the high-quality performance of the planning service
- Prepare agendas and/or reports and take minutes at various meetings
About You
To join us as a Senior Planning Administration Officer, you will be:
- Organised and proactive, with strong leadership and communication skills
- Experienced in administration and customer service in a complex environment
- Confident in using digital systems, managing data, and improving processes
- Committed to high standards of service and continuous improvement
- Willing to learn and develop your understanding of planning policy and legislation
Proven experience of providing advanced administrative or technical support within a Local Authority Planning Department would be beneficial to your application. The following training and qualifications would be desirable: Certificate in Planning, Planning Application Control System/GIS training, an NVQ Level 3 or equivalent and/or technical membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute.
With a commitment to professional development, you’ll be supported to expand your planning knowledge through training, mentoring and hands-on experience. Upon demonstrating the necessary skills, knowledge, and contributions, you may be eligible for progression to Grade 5.
The post is based at the Dartmoor National Park offices at Parke, Bovey Tracey.
For further information or to discuss the role in more detail, please contact Human Resources.
Closing date: Monday, 16 June 2025 (12 noon).
Interview date: Thursday, 26 June 2025.
Dartmoor National Park Authority is a disability confident and an equal opportunities employer, values diversity and are strongly committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and all applicants for employment.
Senior Planning Administration Officer in Newton Abbot employer: Dartmoor National Park Authority
Contact Detail:
Dartmoor National Park Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Administration Officer in Newton Abbot
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Dartmoor National Park's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to conservation and community engagement will help you align your responses during interviews, showcasing your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Dartmoor National Park Authority. They can provide valuable insights into the organisational culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when discussing your experience and skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your knowledge of planning legislation and policies relevant to local authorities. Being well-versed in these areas will demonstrate your commitment to professional development and readiness for the responsibilities of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare specific examples of how you've improved administrative processes in previous roles. Highlighting your proactive approach to workflow management and customer service will set you apart as a candidate who can contribute positively to the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Administration Officer in Newton Abbot
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Planning Administration Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these expectations.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise any previous experience in administration, customer service, or planning within a local authority context. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to manage workflows and lead a team effectively.
Show Commitment to Development: Mention your willingness to learn and develop your understanding of planning policy and legislation. If you have relevant qualifications or training, such as a Certificate in Planning, be sure to include these in your application.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that not only summarises your CV but also conveys your passion for the role and the Dartmoor National Park Authority's mission. Make it personal and engaging to stand out from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dartmoor National Park Authority
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As a Senior Planning Administration Officer, you'll need to demonstrate strong organisational abilities. Prepare examples of how you've effectively managed multiple tasks or projects in the past, highlighting your proactive approach and attention to detail.
✨Emphasise Leadership Experience
Since the role involves line managing a small team, be ready to discuss your leadership style and any relevant experience. Share specific instances where you've successfully led a team or improved team performance, showcasing your ability to motivate and guide others.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Planning Legislation
Understanding planning policy and legislation is crucial for this position. Brush up on key regulations and recent changes in planning law. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your commitment to the role and your willingness to learn.
✨Prepare Questions About Continuous Improvement
The job description mentions a focus on continuous improvement. Prepare insightful questions about how the Dartmoor National Park Authority approaches this. This will not only demonstrate your interest in the role but also your alignment with their values of high standards and service enhancement.