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 supportive team environment.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for mentoring and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community development while enhancing your planning expertise.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of planning policy, excellent communication 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.
Senior Planning 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, Barnet provides a rewarding career path for those passionate about urban development and community engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning 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 practising common questions related to planning applications and stakeholder engagement. We recommend role-playing with a friend or using online resources to get comfortable discussing your experience and how it aligns with the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Bring along examples of your previous work, especially those that highlight your analytical skills and successful project outcomes. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can deliver results.
✨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 Senior Planning Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Planning Officer role. Highlight your experience with planning applications, appeals, and any relevant projects that showcase your analytical skills and knowledge of planning policy.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves regular engagement with applicants and stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication skills. Use clear and concise language in your application to reflect how you can effectively convey complex planning issues.
Highlight Your Collaborative Spirit:We love a team player! Make sure to mention any experiences where you've worked collaboratively across teams or mentored junior colleagues. This will show us that you have the proactive and customer-focused approach we’re looking for.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at JOB SWITCH LTD
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning policies and practices relevant to the role. Being able to discuss specific policies and how they apply to real-world scenarios will show your expertise and readiness for the position.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to be asked about your experience with planning applications and appeals. Prepare a couple of case studies that highlight your analytical skills and decision-making process, especially regarding complex issues like Green Belt or conservation areas.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll be presenting applications at the Planning Committee, practice your presentation skills. Make sure you can clearly articulate your recommendations and respond to potential questions from stakeholders confidently.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires working closely with various teams and mentoring junior colleagues. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past and how you approach knowledge sharing and team support.
