Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage planning applications and collaborate with a dynamic team to enhance our environment.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking Local Planning Authority focused on high-quality service delivery.
- Benefits: Career development support, flexible working, and a chance to mentor junior staff.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community planning while growing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Planning, experience in Local Planning Authority, and RTPI membership eligibility.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative culture with opportunities for innovative contributions and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the role
The Senior Planning Officer contributes to the work of the Development Management Team by managing a caseload of mainly planning applications, pre-application enquiries and appeals, and other service related tasks as required.
About the team
The Development Management Service aims to deliver high quality decisions in a timely fashion and to ensure that the special attributes of our environment are protected and enhanced. Collaboration and sharing knowledge are key to our success and we encourage new team members to help us maintain our high performance while promoting new ideas, constantly looking for ways to improve our working practices. We pride ourselves on a wider-service mentality. You will be working with colleagues from development management, planning policy, planning support and more.
About you
- You have a degree in a related subject to Planning.
- You have experience of working in a Local Planning Authority, preparing reports for development proposals and making recommendations for a range of applications (including minor and majors), appeals and enquiries.
- You have a desire to expand on your knowledge and mentor junior staff.
- You are a positive and self-motivated individual who will bring a strong work ethic and enthusiasm to the team.
- You either have professional membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) or are eligible to become a member.
- You are a team player, who can contribute innovative ideas and be committed to achieving high quality results.
- You hold a current driving licence and access to own a vehicle to use for work.
For You
We will support and encourage you through our annual Performance and Development Review to identify training and career development opportunities, helping you to reach your career goals and full potential.
Further information
For an informal chat about the role, please contact Louise Nolan (Development Manager) on 01306 879240. Closing date for applicants Midday 27th March 2026. Interview dates w/c 6th April 2026 (in person). Politically restricted role Yes.
How to apply
Click Apply online here to complete the short application form attaching your up to date CV and a supporting statement, to let us know how you meet the required skills and experience of the job description and person specification.
Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion for All
Senior Planning Officer in Dorking employer: Mole Valley District Council
Contact Detail:
Mole Valley District Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Officer in Dorking
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in the Development Management Team. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of local planning policies and recent developments. Show us that you're not just a candidate, but someone who’s genuinely passionate about making a difference in the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After your interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to high-quality service delivery.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Officer in Dorking
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Planning Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience in local planning authorities and any specific projects that showcase your skills in managing planning applications and preparing reports.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to explain how your background aligns with the job description. Be specific about your achievements and how they demonstrate your ability to deliver high-quality results.
Show Your Team Spirit: We love team players! In your application, mention examples of how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. This will show us that you’re not just about individual success but also about contributing to the team's goals.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application. Plus, it ensures you’re following the correct process and gives you a chance to review everything before hitting submit.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mole Valley District Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of planning applications and the specific requirements of the role. Familiarise yourself with recent case studies or decisions made by the Development Management Team to show that you're engaged and informed.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since collaboration is key in this role, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've worked effectively in a team. Highlight any experiences where you’ve shared knowledge or contributed innovative ideas to improve processes.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Planning
Express your enthusiasm for the field of planning and your desire to mentor junior staff. Share your vision for how you can contribute to maintaining high-quality results and enhancing the environment through your work.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the team's current projects, opportunities for professional development, or how they measure success within the Development Management Service.