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- Tasks: Lead complex planning projects and influence development in Kent.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council dedicated to sustainable community growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with flexibility and competitive salary.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on infrastructure and growth while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree and eligibility for Chartered Membership required.
- Other info: Driving licence needed; applications welcomed from those needing adjustments.
The predicted salary is between 42700 - 48200 £ per year.
We are looking for an ambitious, organised and highly motivated Planner who is looking for a new challenge in Kent, shaping and influencing development in the County. This post in the Planning Applications Group will focus on County Planning matters relating to mineral and waste development and will support capacity in relation to applications for the County Council’s own development applications for community development.
We are looking for an experienced Officer as you will deal with some of our most complex development planning matters. You will present reports to Members and attend Committee for applications, submissions, and planning matters that you and others in the Planning Applications Group have dealt with. You will also supervise, train and coach staff, review and sign off work carried out by others within the Group.
You will have experience of dealing with a wide range of complex major development, EIA and appropriate assessment developments. You will also have experience as an expert witness for planning inquiries. You’ll be able to respond to challenge and have political awareness within the development management role.
You will have a thorough understanding of the responsibilities of the County Council in the development management process and the contribution to sustainable development, and of the current and emerging planning legislation, policy and guidance and the implications for working practice.
This post requires a relevant degree (or equivalent), as detailed in the person specification. Eligibility for Chartered Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute is required. This role is subject to holding a Full UK Driving Licence – The Council is committed to making reasonable adjustments so whilst this job requires the jobholder to drive your application will still be considered if you are unable to drive due to a disability.
The successful candidate for the post will demonstrate a proven ability to work within a complex and varied environment. Your innovative and flexible approach will enable you to successfully meet outcomes and will make an impact on planning, infrastructure, and growth in Kent.
We operate in a hybrid model of office-based working in Kent and working from home to meet the needs of the service. Please refer to the job description/person specification as this will be used to shortlist applications.
This post is considered by KCC to be a customer-facing position. The Council therefore has a statutory duty under Part 7 of the Immigration Act (2016) to ensure that post holders have a command of spoken English/Welsh sufficient for the effective performance of the job requirements. The appropriate standards are set out in the Job Description/Person Specification.
Please note - if you are interested, please apply soon as possible as the closing date for this advert may be earlier than stated should a number of suitably qualified candidates apply.
For an informal discussion about this post, please contact: Sharon Thompson, Head of Planning Applications Group, 03000413468.
Closing date: 13 June 2025.
Contact Detail:
The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer (Development Management)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the current planning legislation and policies relevant to Kent. Understanding local issues and how they impact development will help you stand out during discussions and interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the planning sector, especially those who have experience with mineral and waste development. Engaging with industry events or forums can provide insights and connections that may benefit your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience as an expert witness in planning inquiries. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've navigated complex development matters and the outcomes of your involvement.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your leadership skills by highlighting any previous experience in supervising or training staff. Show how your innovative approach has led to successful project outcomes in your past roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer (Development Management)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements. Highlight your relevant experience in development management, particularly with complex planning matters, as this will be crucial for your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your experience in planning, especially your work with mineral and waste development. Include specific examples of projects you've managed or contributed to, and ensure your qualifications align with the requirements outlined in the person specification.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your motivation for the role and your understanding of the County Council's responsibilities in development management. Mention your eligibility for Chartered Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute and any relevant experiences that demonstrate your political awareness and ability to handle complex situations.
Proofread and Submit: Before submitting your application, proofread all documents for clarity and accuracy. Ensure that you have addressed all points mentioned in the job description and person specification. Submit your application through our website, making sure to follow any specific instructions provided.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited
✨Know Your Planning Legislation
Make sure you have a solid understanding of current and emerging planning legislation, policy, and guidance. Be prepared to discuss how these impact development management and your approach to complex planning matters.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As this role involves supervising and coaching staff, be ready to share examples of your leadership experience. Highlight how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past, especially in complex environments.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to mineral and waste development, as well as EIA and appropriate assessments. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to discuss specific cases or challenges you've faced in these areas.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be presenting reports to Members and attending Committee meetings, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a relevant topic to demonstrate your communication prowess.
