At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage planning applications and produce well-reasoned reports for development projects.
- Company: Join the London Borough of Barnet's high-performing Planning & Building Control service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for mentoring and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of your community while enhancing your planning expertise.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of planning policy, analytical skills, and experience with complex issues.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This role sits within the Planning & Building Control service at the London Borough of Barnet and forms part of a high-performing, customer-focused Development Management team. The postholder will contribute to delivering an efficient, timely and outcome-driven planning service aligned with the Council's priorities and performance standards.
The Senior Planning Officer will manage a caseload of planning applications, ranging from minor developments to small-scale major applications (and more complex schemes at higher level), assessing proposals and producing robust, well-reasoned reports and recommendations. The role involves regular engagement with applicants, stakeholders and internal consultees, as well as presenting applications at Planning Committee.
Key responsibilities include handling planning applications and appeals, providing pre-application advice, supporting service improvements, and ensuring delivery against key performance targets. The postholder will be expected to contribute to the continuous improvement of systems and processes, work collaboratively across teams, and support junior colleagues through knowledge sharing and mentoring.
Candidates must demonstrate strong knowledge of planning policy and practice, excellent analytical and communication skills, and the ability to manage competing priorities effectively. Experience in dealing with planning appeals, committee presentations and complex planning issues (such as Green Belt, conservation areas or viability) is essential. A proactive, collaborative and customer-focused approach is key to success in this role.
Planning Officer (Tree Officer) employer: JOB SWITCH LTD
The London Borough of Barnet is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment within a high-performing, customer-focused Development Management team. Employees benefit from a collaborative culture that prioritises professional growth through mentoring and knowledge sharing, alongside the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on local planning initiatives. With a commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on delivering efficient services, this role provides a rewarding career path in a vibrant community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Officer (Tree Officer)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the planning sector, attend local events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council's recent projects and challenges. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your knowledge of their priorities and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! Since you'll be presenting applications at Planning Committee, being able to communicate your ideas clearly and confidently is key. Grab a friend and do some mock presentations to get comfortable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Officer (Tree Officer)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Planning Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for planning shine through! We want to see how your experience aligns with the role of a Planning Officer. Share specific examples that highlight your knowledge of planning policy and practice.
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity! Make sure your application is well-structured and easy to read. Use bullet points where necessary to break down your skills and experiences, especially when discussing your analytical and communication skills.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor it to the job description. Highlight your experience with planning applications, appeals, and committee presentations. Show us how you can contribute to our high-performing team at the London Borough of Barnet.
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 and our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at JOB SWITCH LTD
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Make sure you brush up on the relevant planning policies and practices before your interview. Being able to discuss specific policies and how they apply to the role will show that you're not just familiar with the basics, but that you’re genuinely engaged with the field.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to be asked about your experience with planning applications and appeals. Prepare a couple of case studies from your past work where you successfully managed complex planning issues. This will help you demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to handle competing priorities.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since the role involves presenting applications at Planning Committee, practice your presentation skills. You might be asked to present a mock application during the interview, so being clear, concise, and confident will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires a proactive and collaborative approach. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in teams or mentored junior colleagues. Highlighting your customer-focused mindset will also resonate well with the interviewers.
