At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning policy development and support community growth in Castle Point.
- Company: Castle Point Borough Council, dedicated to community well-being and transparency.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, hybrid working, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to diversity and community welfare.
- Why this job: Shape the future of local planning and empower communities with your expertise.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and experience in local planning policies.
The predicted salary is between 110000 - 120000 £ per year.
Castle Point Borough Council is a statutory body responsible for employing nearly 350 staff, and delivering over 150 council services, both statutory and for the community's well‑being and benefit. The council aims to provide high‑quality and financially sustainable services while prioritising outstanding customer service, transparency in decision‑making, and promoting local democracy. Additionally, the council seeks to transform, modernise, and improve its performance, and to support and enable the communities within its jurisdiction to be strong, healthy, and thriving.
Our values: Trust, Respect, Improving and Learning, and Customer Focus
The Opportunity
This is a 6‑month temporary opportunity for a Principal Planning Officer who has experience in plan‑making, good planning policy knowledge and who is available to start on a short notice. The role is offered on a hybrid working basis with an expectation of one day in the office every week.
Accountabilities
- Undertake complex work in relation to the preparation of the Castle Point Plan including the review of evidence base documents and formulation of policies that respond to the outcomes of that evidence.
- Analyze data and information to create evidence to support plan‑making and decision‑taking, including statutory reporting.
- Advise members on the options and challenges they need to address through the Castle Point Plan and incorporate their feedback into policies.
- Draft policies and their justification.
- Draft planning guidance.
- Review engagement outcomes and adjust policies to reflect those outcomes.
- Present evidence in writing and in person in respect of the plan, including appearing at the EiP for the Plan.
- Coach junior members of the team.
The Experience You Will Bring
- Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute.
- Degree‑level relevant qualification.
- Knowledge and understanding of planning legislation and regulations with reference to local government and district councils.
- Previous experience of producing Local Plans.
- Strong organisation and communication skills.
Castle Point Borough Council is proud to be a disability‑confident leader. We’re committed to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum requirements of the job. We’re also committed to interview all veterans and care leavers who meet the minimum requirements of the role for which they are applying. Please speak to our recruiters if you require any reasonable adjustments during the process. Castle Point Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
Principal Planning Policy Officer – Castle Point BC in Essex employer: Essex County Counci
Castle Point Borough Council is an excellent employer that prioritises outstanding customer service and community well-being, offering a supportive work culture where trust, respect, and continuous improvement are at the forefront. With a commitment to employee growth and development, this role provides the opportunity to engage in meaningful planning work while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements. Located in the vibrant Castle Point area, employees benefit from a collaborative environment that values transparency and local democracy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Policy Officer – Castle Point BC in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the planning sector, especially those who have experience with local councils. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of planning legislation and local government processes. We recommend practising common interview questions related to policy-making and being ready to discuss your previous experiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills! Whether it’s through presentations or written reports, make sure you can clearly articulate your ideas and policies. This is crucial for a role like Principal Planning Policy Officer.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Policy Officer – Castle Point BC in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Principal Planning Policy Officer role. Highlight your experience in plan-making and any relevant qualifications that align with Castle Point BC's needs.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to emphasise your strong organisation and communication skills. These are key for this role, so give examples of how you've used them in past positions to make your application stand out.
Be Clear and Concise:When drafting your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. This will help us understand your qualifications and experiences better.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, plus you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Counci
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning policies and legislation relevant to local government. Familiarise yourself with Castle Point's specific challenges and opportunities, as this will show your genuine interest in the role and the community.
✨Prepare Evidence-Based Examples
Think of specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully drafted policies or engaged with stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you analysed data to support your decisions, as this is crucial for the Principal Planning Policy Officer role.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll need to present evidence both in writing and in person, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock presentations with a friend or colleague to get comfortable with your delivery.
✨Showcase Your Coaching Ability
As part of the role involves coaching junior team members, be prepared to discuss your mentoring experiences. Highlight how you've supported others in their professional development and how you plan to foster a collaborative environment within the team.
