At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic planning and collaborate with local authorities on key development projects.
- Company: Bath & North East Somerset Council, dedicated to improving lives in the community.
- Benefits: Supportive work environment, flexible arrangements, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Join a high-performing team committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local planning and contribute to community development.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in strategic planning and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
At Bath & North East Somerset Council we have one overriding purpose to improve people’s lives.
About The Team
Bath & North East Somerset (B&NES) Council is seeking to recruit a Principal Planning Officer within the Planning Policy Team on a fixed‑term contract (24 months). This key post will play a vital role in representing B&NES in discussions and in working with the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (WECA) and neighbouring local authorities as WECA prepares a Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) and B&NES prepares a new‑style Local Plan. The successful candidate will bring significant strategic planning experience, strong communication skills, and a proven track record of collaborating with stakeholders to achieve key milestones.
About The Role
The role offers the chance to work across the sub‑region within a high‑performing B&NES Planning Policy team and to further develop your career in a supportive environment. As a technical leader you will ensure that development proposals comply with legislation, regulations, national and local planning and Council policies, and you will provide specialist advice and information on Plan Making and Development Plan production.
About You
The ideal candidate is a highly capable, proactive professional with significant experience of project managing and leading strategic planning. The Principal Officer Role Profile attached to this advert also covers the equivalent role in Development Management – the policy related elements of the Role Profile apply to this post.
Interview
Interview date: 10/08/2026
Other Key Information
Please note, B&NES Council operates a policy of prior consideration for roles for any individual on the Council’s at‑risk register (redeployee). Those who meet the essential criteria will be considered ahead of external applicants.
No agencies please.
We are a Disability Confident Employer and welcome applications for job‑share, part‑time and flexible working arrangements in line with business needs.
Safeguarding Statement
The Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable groups and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. As part of this commitment anyone working in a post with children or vulnerable groups will be expected to undertake an Enhanced DBS check with/without barred list checks.
Contact
For more details or to discuss the role, please contact Richard Daone, Deputy Head of Planning (Policy). All applications must be made via the online system.
Contact Details:
BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer (Policy) in Keynsham
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Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
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Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer (Policy) in Keynsham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
