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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major infrastructure planning projects and coordinate multi-disciplinary teams.
- Company: Join AECOM, a global leader in infrastructure consulting, dedicated to delivering a better world.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options, competitive compensation, and access to industry-leading technology.
- Why this job: Work on impactful projects that shape communities and the environment while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Town Planning or related field; RTPI membership preferred; significant experience required.
- Other info: Flexible base location with opportunities for professional development and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
AECOM Birmingham, England, United Kingdom
Overview
We have an opportunity for a Principal Town Planner to work on infrastructure planning projects across the UK, with a particular expertise and focus on major Development Consent Order (DCO) projects. AECOM is leading on planning applications for renewables and wider energy/electricity related infrastructure, transport, defence, water and more. You will work on a range of prestigious infrastructure projects in the energy transition, rail and water development sectors, as well as regional and local developments. AECOM has experience of over 80 DCO projects and is a market leader in UK infrastructure development.
The role is nationally based within our Town Planning team and supports hybrid working. The base location can be from our offices in Basingstoke, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Chesterfield, Leeds, London Aldgate, Manchester, Nottingham and Plymouth, with an option for hybrid working.
What you’ll do
- Lead and assist in the delivery of major development applications.
- Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams across various project types.
- Submit and manage planning applications, including liaison and negotiation with local planning authorities and key stakeholders.
- Provide planning advice to colleagues and clients on consent requirements and permitted development rights.
- Produce planning feasibility reports and consent strategies.
- Write Planning Statements and Design and Access Statements for development applications.
- Contribute to business development in specific market sectors, including sector strategy; identify opportunities and build client relationships.
- Lead and contribute to the preparation of successful commercial tenders.
- Work closely with the Environmental Impact Assessment team and participate in internal and external meetings with stakeholders.
- Oversee project management, ensuring quality and adherence to health and safety principles.
Qualifications
- Education & Professional Memberships: Degree in Town Planning or a related discipline; Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) or an equivalent professional body.
- Experience: Significant relevant experience of leading applications for planning consent for large infrastructure projects across a range of consenting regimes; expert witness experience would be advantageous.
- Client & Stakeholder Relations: Client-focused with good interpersonal skills and a collaborative working approach; existing relationships with clients and local authorities; business development mindset with demonstrable work-winning ability.
- Skills: Ability to write clearly and concisely; ability to work on your own initiative and under pressure.
- Quality & Commitment: High level of commitment to quality.
Additional Information
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we foster an inclusive environment where everyone can contribute. We offer hybrid work options and a range of compensation, benefits and well-being programs. We are a Disability Confident Employer and will offer an interview to applicants who have a disability or long-term condition, who meet the minimum/essential criteria for the role. Please contact ReasonableAccommodations@aecom.com if you would like to apply through the Disability Confident Interview Scheme. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
ReqID: J10136095 • Business Line: Environment • Business Group: DCS • Strategic Business Unit: Europe & India • Career Area: Planning • Work Location Model: Hybrid
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Principal Town Planner employer: AECOM
Contact Detail:
AECOM Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Town Planner
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in infrastructure planning, especially around DCO projects. Understanding current regulations and innovations will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field by attending industry events or joining relevant online forums. Building relationships with existing AECOM employees can provide valuable insights and potentially a referral.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with multi-disciplinary teams and stakeholder engagement. AECOM values collaboration, so showcasing your ability to lead and coordinate diverse groups will be crucial.
✨Tip Number 4
Research AECOM's recent projects and initiatives, particularly in renewable energy and infrastructure development. Being knowledgeable about their work will demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Town Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in town planning, especially with large infrastructure projects. Emphasise your leadership roles and any specific DCO project experience to align with AECOM's requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for infrastructure planning and your understanding of AECOM's mission. Mention specific projects or initiatives by AECOM that resonate with you and explain how your skills can contribute to their goals.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills in project management, stakeholder engagement, and writing planning statements. Use examples from your past work to demonstrate your ability to deliver high-quality results under pressure.
Showcase Your Professional Memberships: Mention your membership with the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) or any equivalent professional body prominently in your application. This demonstrates your commitment to the profession and adherence to industry standards.
How to prepare for a job interview at AECOM
✨Research AECOM's Projects
Familiarise yourself with AECOM's portfolio, especially their DCO projects and major infrastructure developments. Being able to discuss specific projects during your interview will demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and its work.
✨Showcase Your Planning Expertise
Prepare to discuss your experience with planning applications and stakeholder engagement. Highlight any relevant projects you've led or contributed to, particularly those involving large infrastructure or energy transition initiatives.
✨Demonstrate Client Relationship Skills
Since client focus is crucial for this role, be ready to share examples of how you've built and maintained relationships with clients and local authorities. Discuss your approach to business development and how you can contribute to AECOM's growth.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask insightful questions about AECOM's future projects, team dynamics, or their approach to hybrid working. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
