At a Glance
- Tasks: Evaluate planning applications and provide expert advice to shape sustainable growth.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council dedicated to community development.
- Benefits: Generous leave, competitive pension, wellbeing support, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Great opportunities for learning and personal development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on your community while developing your career in planning.
- Qualifications: Interest in planning, strong communication skills, and IT proficiency.
The predicted salary is between 31537 - 36363 € per year.
Location: Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2BX.
Salary: £31,537 – £36,363 per annum (pro‑rata for part‑time).
Hours: 37 hours per week.
Contract: Permanent or fixed‑term 12‑month. This role is open to full‑time, part‑time and job‑share applicants.
Responsibilities
- Examine and evaluate all types of planning applications made under the Town and Country Planning Acts and related legislation.
- Assess whether proposals are in accordance with Council’s policies, considering the needs of the local community and liaising with specialist technical officers from other directorates.
- Offer sound pre‑application advice in terms of requirements for planning permission, general acceptability of development proposals and in respect of planning policy advice.
- Attend meetings with planning agents/applicants on site and virtually via Microsoft Teams, following up with written responses.
- Review site histories, spatial constraints and the current planning regulations to assist with general planning enquiries.
- Hold a full driving licence, as the role includes carrying out site visits and attending site meetings across rural districts.
About You
- Demonstrable keen interest in the planning process and motivation to shape the environment through sustainable growth.
- Team player capable of working independently, solutions‑focused with an appetite for effective collaboration.
- Effective communicator, able to liaise with stakeholders and implement the spatial vision for the districts.
- Strong IT skills; experience in report writing is advantageous.
Benefits
- Generous leave entitlement (26 days a year, rising to 31 days after 5 years).
- Competitive Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Wellbeing support and employee assistance programmes.
- Private health care options.
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme.
- Paid volunteering days.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (business needs permitting).
- Great learning and development opportunities.
Equal Opportunity and Safeguarding
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. DBS checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
Closing Date: 5:00 pm, 26 May 2026.
Planning Officers employer: Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils
As a Planning Officer at Endeavour House in Ipswich, you will join a supportive and collaborative work culture that values your contributions to sustainable community development. With generous leave entitlements, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, this role offers excellent opportunities for professional growth and meaningful engagement with local stakeholders. The company prioritises a healthy work-life balance and provides resources for continuous learning, making it an outstanding employer for those passionate about shaping the environment.
Contact Detail:
Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Officers
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Planning Officers on LinkedIn or at local events. A friendly chat can give us insights into the role and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of local planning policies and recent developments in the area. We want to show that we’re not just interested, but genuinely invested in shaping the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable discussing your experience and how it relates to the role. We need to convey our passion for sustainable growth confidently.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Officers
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Planning:Let us see your enthusiasm for the planning process! In your application, share why you’re excited about shaping the environment and how you can contribute to sustainable growth in our community.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. We want to know how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Planning Officer role, so don’t hold back!
Communicate Clearly:Effective communication is key in this role. When writing your application, be clear and concise. Use straightforward language to convey your ideas, and don’t forget to proofread for any typos or errors!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Familiarise yourself with the local planning policies and regulations before the interview. This will not only show your keen interest in the role but also demonstrate your understanding of how these policies impact the community.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially regarding planning applications. Think of examples where you've had to evaluate proposals or provide advice, and be ready to discuss your thought process.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Planning Officer, effective communication is key. Prepare to discuss how you would liaise with stakeholders and present your ideas clearly. Practising your responses can help you articulate your thoughts more confidently.
✨Highlight Your IT Proficiency
Since strong IT skills are essential for this role, be prepared to talk about your experience with report writing and any relevant software. Mention specific tools you’ve used and how they’ve helped you in previous roles.
