At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape communities through diverse planning projects and sustainable development.
- Company: Join DAC Planning, an award-winning consultancy with a passion for community impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, health benefits, flexible working, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with social activities and volunteering opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in communities while growing your planning career.
- Qualifications: RTPI chartered status and a track record in high-quality planning work.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Join Our Team at DAC Planning. Are you a passionate and talented chartered town planner looking for your next challenge? Do you want to work on interesting and high-profile projects that make a genuine difference to communities across the country? If so, we want to hear from you.
DAC Planning is a professional planning consultancy dedicated to providing expert planning advice and support to local authorities, local communities and public sector bodies nationally. We combine our deep experience in local government with our consultancy expertise – because we understand how planning works in practice. We are proud holders of the RTPI Excellence in Digital Planning Award and in 2023 we were awarded the RTPI Small Planning Consultancy of the Year (East of England) Award. We are a friendly, dedicated and ambitious team, united by a shared passion for the plan‑led planning system and the communities we serve.
We are now looking to appoint an experienced chartered planner to join us. Depending on your skills and experience, this role could be at Planner, Senior Planner, Principal Planner or Associate level.
The Role
This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing consultancy at a pivotal time. You will work on a diverse range of projects for clients nationally, contributing to work that shapes communities and supports the delivery of sustainable development. Projects you could be involved in include:
- Local Plan production and examination support, including policy drafting, evidence base work, project management and consultation
- Infrastructure planning and Infrastructure Delivery Plans
- Developer contributions, CIL and S106 advice
- Training delivery through The Planning Academy, our dedicated training service
- Neighbourhood Plan support, from inception through to examination
- Research projects
- Development management support to local planning authorities in relation to high profile schemes of strategic importance
- Planning appeals and expert witness support
We welcome further expertise in our existing project areas and actively encourage candidates to pursue new projects aligned with their interests and strengths.
About You
We are flexible on the level at which we appoint, and we are open to candidates across a range of experience levels. Above all, we are looking for someone who shares our values and our passion for the work we do. You will:
- Hold RTPI chartered status
- Have a proven track record of delivering high‑quality planning work
- Be an excellent communicator with strong written and verbal skills
- Have good political and commercial acumen
- Be self‑motivated, organised and able to manage your own workload
- Be a collaborative team player with high personal standards
- Ideally have experience in planning policy and/or Local Plan work, though we welcome a range of planning backgrounds
Location
We are based in Colchester and our preference is for candidates who can work from our office on a regular basis, alongside an element of home working.
What We Offer
In addition to a competitive salary (commensurate with experience) and pension contribution, DAC Planning offers:
- 25 days annual leave, in addition to public holidays
- Health and wellness benefits including life insurance, an Employee Assistance Programme and a virtual GP
- Ongoing CPD opportunities including attendance at national conferences
- Flexible working arrangements including flexible hours, part‑time and full‑time options
- Volunteering opportunities at Jordan's Farm, a local rewilding project
- A supportive and friendly working culture with regular team meetings and social activities
- The opportunity to contribute to the development and growth of the business
How to Apply
To apply, please click the 'Apply' button to submit your CV and covering letter. Your covering letter should set out your relevant skills and experience and explain why you are a great fit for DAC Planning. The closing date for applications is Monday 11th May at 5pm. For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Vicki Willis or Nicki Faulkner on 01206 688103 or admin@dacplanning.com.
DAC Planning is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to ensuring that all employees and job applicants receive equal treatment regardless of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability or any other protected characteristic. We believe that diversity and inclusion make us a stronger, more innovative organisation and we actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
Chartered Planner in Essex employer: DAC Planning
Contact Detail:
DAC Planning Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chartered Planner in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the planning field and let them know you're on the lookout for new opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or be able to put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local planning events or workshops. This is a great way to meet industry professionals and showcase your passion for planning. Plus, it gives you a chance to learn about the latest trends and challenges in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow DAC Planning and other relevant organisations on platforms like LinkedIn. Engage with their posts and share your insights to get noticed by potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
When you find a role that excites you, apply through our website! Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight how your skills align with the job description. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for DAC Planning!
We think you need these skills to ace Chartered Planner in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Chartered Planner. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with DAC Planning's values and the specific projects mentioned in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're a great fit for DAC Planning, showcasing your passion for planning and how your background aligns with their mission.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As an excellent communicator, make sure your written application reflects this. Use clear, concise language and structure your documents well to demonstrate your ability to convey complex ideas effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from DAC Planning.
How to prepare for a job interview at DAC Planning
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning policies and local government practices. Familiarise yourself with DAC Planning's recent projects and awards, like the RTPI Excellence in Digital Planning Award. This shows your genuine interest and helps you speak confidently about how you can contribute.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that highlight your skills in planning policy, project management, or community engagement. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully navigated challenges in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your problem-solving abilities.
✨Communicate Clearly
As an excellent communicator, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. During the interview, focus on your verbal and written communication skills, as these are crucial for a chartered planner. Consider doing mock interviews with friends to refine your delivery.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
DAC Planning values collaboration, so be prepared to discuss how you work within a team. Share examples of successful projects where you contributed as a team player, highlighting your ability to support colleagues and engage with stakeholders effectively.