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- Tasks: Manage planning applications and provide expert advice to stakeholders.
- Company: Join a supportive Local Authority team in Hertfordshire.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work with 1-2 days in the office and competitive pay.
- Why this job: Great opportunity for growth in a collaborative environment with interesting projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in UK Local Authority planning and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Contract lasts 6-7 months, with a pay rate of £40-£45 per hour.
My client, a Local Authority based in Hertfordshire, is seeking an experienced Senior Planning Officer to join their Development Management team on a full-time contract basis for an initial 6–7 month period. This is a hybrid role, with 1–2 days per week required in the office and the remainder of the week worked remotely.
Key Responsibilities:
- Managing a varied caseload of minor planning applications, including complex householder proposals and small-scale major developments
- Providing professional advice to applicants, agents, and stakeholders
- Ensuring applications are processed efficiently and in line with statutory requirements and local policy
- Supporting the wider team with planning queries and contributing to service improvements
Requirements:
- Proven experience in a similar role within a UK Local Authority
- Strong understanding of relevant planning legislation and policy
- Ability to manage a diverse caseload independently
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- RTPI membership (or eligibility) is desirable
Contract Details:
- Rate: £40–£45 per hour (umbrella)
- Hours: Full-time
- Duration: 6–7 months
- Location: Hybrid – 1–2 days per week in the office (Hertfordshire)
This is a great opportunity for a planning professional looking to take on a manageable and interesting caseload within a supportive team environment. If you’re interested, please get in touch with Daniel Baker on 07545 546 986 or apply via this advert.
Contact Detail:
Hays Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the planning sector, especially those who have experience working in local authorities. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the specific challenges they face.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the local planning policies and recent developments in Hertfordshire. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the area.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience managing a diverse caseload. Think of specific examples where you've successfully handled complex applications and how you ensured compliance with planning legislation.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by being clear and concise in all your interactions. Whether it's during a phone call or a video interview, articulate your thoughts well and be ready to answer questions about your approach to stakeholder engagement.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in planning, particularly within a UK Local Authority. Emphasise your ability to manage a diverse caseload and any specific projects that align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that directly addresses the key responsibilities of the Senior Planning Officer role. Use specific examples from your past work to demonstrate your expertise in managing planning applications and providing professional advice.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your understanding of planning legislation and policy. Mention your communication skills and any experience you have with service improvements, as these are crucial for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is essential for a planning officer.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Recruitment
✨Know Your Planning Legislation
Brush up on the relevant planning legislation and policies that govern local authorities in the UK. Being able to discuss these confidently will show your expertise and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Caseload Management Skills
Prepare examples from your previous experience where you successfully managed a diverse caseload. Highlight any complex applications you handled and how you ensured they were processed efficiently.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. You might be asked to explain complex planning concepts, so clarity is key.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Be ready to discuss how you've supported your team in the past. Share instances where you contributed to service improvements or assisted colleagues with planning queries, showcasing your collaborative spirit.
