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- Tasks: Manage major projects in renewable energy and infrastructure while providing professional planning services.
- Company: Join Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, the planning authority for the stunning Outer Hebrides.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, a permanent position, and the beauty of island life.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful projects that shape the future of renewable energy in a vibrant community.
- Qualifications: Must have RTPI membership and experience in Development Management with strong communication skills.
- Other info: In-person interviews offer a chance to meet the team and see the work environment.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 46000 £ per year.
Advert
Planning Officer: National and Major Projects
37 hours per week, permanent position
£45,243 to £48,966 per annum, inclusive of £2,859 Distant Islands Allowance per annum
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar is the Planning Authority for the islands of the Outer Hebrides, an area renowned for its strong sense of community, environmental quality, beautiful scenery, outdoor opportunities, low crime rates, good educational opportunities and a strong cultural scene.
By 2027 the Isle of Lewis is to be connected to the National Grid via a 1.8GW radial interconnector cable that will release the large scale renewable energy development potential of the Outer Hebrides. Allied to this are proposals for significant development of electricity infrastructure, classed as National Development on account of its status as part of the National Grid. There is therefore a need to address the consenting requirements of a programme of National, Major and/or EIA development projects.
The Planning Officer in this position will provide professional planning services to enable the Comhairle to fulfil statutory planning duties and related services. Working within the Development Management team, the primary focus of the post will be to manage a caseload in respect of major projects, particularly those related to Renewable Energy developments, energy infrastructure, and related Housing.
Whilst adhering to the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Code of Professional Conduct, you will be required to engage constructively with developers and their professional agents in the Renewables and Electricity Infrastructure sectors;process and assess applications for development; provide planning advice to the public; implement and facilitate delivery of associated projects; draft reports; prepare and present reports for Committee; and undertake the duties necessary to defend Comhairle decisions at planning appeals, hearings or public inquiries.
You will hold Full or Associate Membership of the RTPI and have proven experience of a significant breadth and depth in Development Management/Development Plan work. In addition, you must have good knowledge of current planning legislation and associated guidance and knowledge and understanding of EIA processes. You must have good interpersonal, listening, negotiation, and written communication skills. The ability to accept responsibility and work constructively within a small team, whilst also organising and prioritising your own workload is essential.
A current full UK driving licence is essential.
The attached employee testimonial provides an insight to working as a Planning Officer in the Outer Hebrides from a current member of the team.
Salary for the above post is inclusive of Distant Islands Allowance. Appointment to the post will be on the first point of the grade.
Please see attached Job Description & Person Specification for further information. It is vital to read the job description and person specification, in your supporting statement please detail how you meet each of the essential criteria we ask for in the person specification.
Interviews will be conducted in person, providing candidates with the chance to personally meet the team and experience our work environment.
Closing Date: Thursday 27 March 2025
Planning Officer: National and Major Projects - CNS05257 employer: Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
Contact Detail:
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Officer: National and Major Projects - CNS05257
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the specific planning legislation and guidance relevant to the Outer Hebrides. Understanding local regulations and how they apply to renewable energy projects will give you an edge in discussions with developers and during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with local community groups and stakeholders involved in renewable energy initiatives. Building these connections can provide valuable insights into community needs and expectations, which is crucial for a Planning Officer role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with EIA processes and Development Management in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated complex planning applications or projects in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Since interviews will be conducted in person, practice your interpersonal and negotiation skills. Being able to communicate effectively and demonstrate your ability to work within a team will be key to making a positive impression.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Officer: National and Major Projects - CNS05257
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Job Description: Carefully read the job description and person specification. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and essential criteria required for the Planning Officer role.
Tailor Your Supporting Statement: In your supporting statement, explicitly detail how you meet each of the essential criteria outlined in the person specification. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate your qualifications.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize your experience in Development Management and your knowledge of current planning legislation. Mention any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those related to Renewable Energy developments.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and person specification. Familiarize yourself with the key responsibilities, especially those related to managing major projects and renewable energy developments.
✨Showcase Your RTPI Membership
Highlight your Full or Associate Membership of the RTPI during the interview. Discuss how your membership has equipped you with the knowledge of current planning legislation and EIA processes.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Be ready to discuss real-life scenarios where you've engaged with developers or processed planning applications. Use specific examples to demonstrate your negotiation and communication skills.
✨Express Your Teamwork Skills
Emphasize your ability to work constructively within a small team. Share examples of how you've organized and prioritized your workload while collaborating with others to achieve common goals.
