At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major planning applications and mentor junior planners in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Braintree District Council, known for its supportive and friendly team culture.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible working, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a collaborative and positive work environment.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and shape the future of your community through strategic planning.
- Qualifications: Planning degree or equivalent, with experience in strategic development management.
The predicted salary is between 55 - 55 £ per hour.
Essex County Council (ECC) are delighted to be supporting Braintree Council to recruit a Principal Planner on a temporary basis for a period of 6 months. Please note role will be based 1 day per week on site.
Job purpose
To act as Case Officer for strategic and major scale planning applications and appeals, including where Planning Performance Agreements are utilised.
Accountabilities
- To take responsibility as case officer for key strategic developments, including all the related project management; consultee and community liaison; Council Member interface and engagement of specialist consultancy as tasked by the Housing Delivery and Growth Team leader.
- The provision of advice to Planning Committee on all aspects of Development Management relating to planning applications for which you are the Case Officer; preparing Committee reports and recommendations and helping to assemble agendas.
- To attend Planning Committee meetings alongside the lead Officer and present reports and recommendations where you are the Case Officer.
- To mentor and support Planners who provide assistance to the role in the context of specific development proposals at pre-application, application and post-decision stages.
- The implementation of all aspects of the Council's plans and policies through Development Management and through liaison with the Planning Policy team and other Council Services.
- To assess planning and related applications, discuss proposals with applicants, undertake site inspections and advise the public on proposals, as appropriate.
- To prepare evidence for appeals and represent the Council at Hearings and Public Inquiries if required.
- To represent the Development Management Service, as required, in the development of cross-Service corporate strategies and projects.
Skills, knowledge & experience
- Planning degree or equivalent qualification and eligibility for RTPI Membership
- Relevant experience in a range of strategic and major scale development management work with a planning authority, including appeals, reporting to Committee and other formal and informal meetings
- Experience of negotiating Section 106 agreements
- Experience in a range of Development Management (DM) work, including complex applications, appeals and providing pre application advice
- Understanding of Planning Law and national planning policies/guidance relating to DM
- Ability to interpret plans and understand related information
- Ability to prepare clear written reports/statements fit for the relevant audience
- Ability to present reports to public/member meetings
- Ability to work to plan own workload and meet concise deadlines
- An awareness of the national planning policy perspective
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Current UK Driving Licence and access to a car
- Good knowledge and understanding of equal opportunities
Why choose Braintree District Council?
The Development Management Team at Braintree District Council is a great place to work. This role is needed to add additional capacity to the existing team rather than to backfill a vacancy and is reflective of the increasing quantity of exciting strategic scale work which the team is accommodating. The team at Braintree is a friendly, approachable and well established team with a positive approach and a high level of professional pride.
Principal Planner in Colchester employer: Essex County Counci
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer for Adults Social Workers, offering a community-focused work environment in the diverse areas of Colchester and Tendring. With a commitment to employee wellbeing, ongoing professional development, and flexible working options, we empower our staff to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive culture that values collaboration and innovation. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to helping individuals achieve independence and live fulfilling lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planner in Colchester
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
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.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
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.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planner in Colchester
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 Essex County Counci
✨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 Essex County Counci.
✨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 Essex County Counci 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.
