At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate and resolve planning enforcement cases while supporting community growth.
- Company: Join Braintree District Council, a dynamic and ambitious local authority.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, a local government pension, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning enforcement and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced planning professional ready to make a visible impact? Braintree District Council has an exciting Senior Planning Enforcement Officer opportunity!
Location: Braintree, Essex, CM7 9HB
Salary: £36,684 to £45,498 per annum
Job Type: Full time, permanent
Closing Date: Sunday 26 July 2026
About Us:
Braintree District Council is an ambitious and dynamic council and one of the fastest growing districts in the East of England. With three growing towns, London just 45 minutes away, and the district positioned between Stansted Airport and Harwich and Felixstowe International Ports, we have a strong track record of delivery and a deserved reputation within the business community. We pride ourselves on our creative and innovative approach, led by our employees, and are committed to an engaged workforce that understands our strategy and how they contribute to positive change in the local community.
Senior Planning Enforcement Officer – The Role:
You will join our Planning Enforcement team as a senior member, managing a varied caseload of complex, sensitive and high‑profile planning enforcement matters. Your work will include site inspections, investigating alleged breaches of planning control, providing clear advice, negotiating positive outcomes and recommending appropriate courses of action. You will prepare reports and notices, gather and manage evidence, prepare case files for legal proceedings, and represent the Council at court or during appeals. You will also support and mentor junior officers and contribute to service improvement.
Senior Planning Enforcement Officer – Key Responsibilities:
- Manage a varied caseload of planning enforcement matters with a focus on complex, sensitive and high‑profile cases
- Conduct site inspections and investigate alleged breaches of planning control
- Prepare clear, well‑reasoned reports and formal notices, and represent the Council at court and appeals
- Use persuasion, negotiation and formal enforcement powers appropriately to achieve compliance
- Support and mentor junior officers and contribute to service improvement initiatives
Senior Planning Enforcement Officer – You:
- Demonstrable experience within a Local Planning Authority environment, with strong planning knowledge and sound professional judgement
- Ability to work independently, manage your own caseload, prioritise effectively, and handle demanding situations with tact, confidence and resilience
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong customer service, attention to detail and the motivation to deliver high‑quality work within deadlines
- Full driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes (essential)
Benefits:
- Flexible working with hybrid arrangements available (mix of home and office based)
- Local government pension scheme
- Learning and development for all employees
- Employee discounts at local businesses
- Employee recognition schemes
- Extensive health and wellbeing programmes, including discounted gym membership
What’s next?
Closing Date: Sunday 26 July 2026
Interviews will be held w/c 3rd August 2026
Although our vacancy is being advertised on this job board/external website, we will never ask you to submit an application through this site. To protect your personal information, please visit our Braintree District Council site and click ‘Join our team’. You can then apply through the ‘Current Vacancies’ link.
To submit your CV for this exciting Senior Planning Enforcement Officer opportunity, click Apply today
Senior Planning Enforcement Officer in Braintree employer: Braintree District Council
Braintree District Council is an excellent employer that values community engagement and offers a supportive work culture where your contributions truly matter. With competitive salaries and opportunities for professional development, you will thrive in a dynamic environment dedicated to making a positive impact in Braintree, Essex. Join us to be part of a team that fosters growth and innovation while serving the local community.
Contact Details:
Braintree District Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Enforcement Officer in Braintree
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the planning enforcement field and let them know you're on the lookout for new opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of planning legislation and case management. Be ready to discuss how you've handled complex cases in the past, as this will show you’re the right fit for the Senior Planning Enforcement Officer role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your interpersonal skills! During interviews, highlight your ability to negotiate and resolve conflicts fairly. This is key in planning enforcement, so make sure they see how you can bring that to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our dynamic team at Braintree District Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Enforcement Officer in Braintree
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in planning enforcement. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills in negotiation, report writing, and case management have made a difference in your previous roles. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and experiences stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with Braintree District Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Braintree District Council
✨Know Your Planning Legislation
Brush up on your knowledge of planning legislation, especially CPIA, PACE, and RIPA rules. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re well-prepared and understand the complexities of the role.
✨Showcase Your Case Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed diverse caseloads in the past. Highlight specific cases where you resolved breaches of planning control, as this will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities.
✨Demonstrate Strong Interpersonal Skills
Since this role involves customer liaison and negotiation, think of scenarios where you’ve effectively communicated with stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you handle sensitive situations and bring parties to a fair resolution.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, and the council's vision for the district. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
