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- Tasks: Assist in urban design projects and contribute to the city's Local Plan.
- Company: Join Newcastle City Council, a key player in the Northeast's economic and cultural landscape.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and access to wellbeing initiatives.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping a vibrant city with impactful projects.
- Qualifications: Proficiency in design software and good communication skills are essential.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role for 24 months with opportunities for growth.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Newcastle City Council is looking to appoint an up and coming Urban Designer to work within the Planning Service to provide urban design input into the Council's Local Plan and advise on the developing built environment of the city, working as part of the Urban Design & Conservation Team. This is a rare opportunity to be involved in the planning and development of a European Regional Capital, whilst gaining valuable experience working as part of a multi-disciplinary Urban Design and Conservation Team.
In our office on the 9th floor of the Civic Centre, in the heart of town, with views across this iconic city, our busy multi-disciplinary team includes Urban Designers, Landscape Architects, Ecologists, Arborists, Planners, Archaeologists, Drainage Specialists, Highways Engineers and Conservation Officers. Your time would be spent undertaking support work across a variety of project types and scales.
Our Great City is the economic and cultural centre of the Northeast. Projects underway include some of the highest profile developments in the region; large scale mixed used, residential schemes of all scales, Design Coding, and other design related support work. Proficiency and expertise in the use of appropriate Design packages will be essential. An understanding of the Planning system, along with good oral and written communication skills, will be advantageous.
As an employee of Newcastle City Council, we can offer you:
- A competitive salary
- Access to the Local Government pension scheme and options to overpay
- Generous annual leave in addition to Bank Holidays, plus options to buy leave
- A bespoke induction to your role and a buddy system
- A flexi-time scheme for improved work/life balance
- Agile working, both home and office-based where possible
- Access to Occupational Health, Mindfulness, and other wellbeing initiatives
- Access to salary sacrifice schemes for cars, bicycles and white electrical goods
- Discounted travel passes
This advert is for a fixed term, 24 month post.
For an informal discussion please contact Richard Charge – Urban Design & Conservation Team Manager richard.charge@newcastle.gov.uk or (0191) 2115592. Apply online at www.northeastjobs.org.uk, select 'Apply Now' and complete our online application form. Any communication sent to you regarding your application will be sent to the email address you have set up on your Northeast Jobs account, so you will need to ensure that you check your inbox.
Contact Detail:
Newcastle City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Assistant (Urban Design)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Newcastle's Local Plan and current urban design projects. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities in the city will help you engage more effectively during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the Urban Design and Conservation field. Attend local events or workshops to meet people who work at Newcastle City Council or similar organisations, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your design software skills, particularly those relevant to urban design. Being proficient in tools like AutoCAD, SketchUp, or GIS will not only enhance your application but also prepare you for the technical aspects of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the team during your interview. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you, while also demonstrating your proactive approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Assistant (Urban Design)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Planning Assistant position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, such as proficiency in design packages and knowledge of the planning system.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with urban design and planning. Include any projects or coursework that demonstrate your understanding of urban design principles and your ability to work in a multi-disciplinary team.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in the role and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Mention specific projects or experiences that relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Check Application Requirements: Ensure you have all necessary documents ready for submission, including your CV, cover letter, and any other required materials. Double-check the application process on the Newcastle City Council website to avoid missing any important steps.
How to prepare for a job interview at Newcastle City Council
✨Research the Council's Projects
Before your interview, take some time to research Newcastle City Council's current and upcoming urban design projects. Familiarising yourself with their initiatives will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to discuss how your skills can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Design Skills
Be prepared to discuss your proficiency in design packages relevant to urban design. Bring along a portfolio of your work that highlights your best projects, especially those that demonstrate your understanding of the planning system and urban design principles.
✨Prepare for Teamwork Questions
Since you'll be working within a multi-disciplinary team, expect questions about teamwork and collaboration. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully worked with others, particularly in diverse teams, and be ready to share these stories.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Good oral and written communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and consider preparing a few questions to ask the interviewers about the team dynamics and project expectations to demonstrate your engagement.
