At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to shape planning policies and engage with communities in a unique area.
- Company: North Norfolk District Council, committed to innovative local planning.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 25 days holiday, and access to a great pension scheme.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local planning and develop your skills in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Degree in planning with RTPI recognition and experience in local government.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join North Norfolk District Council at the start of the Local Plan making process under the new plan making system. We are expanding our team in light of the new workstreams and looking for a motivated and ambitious planner seeking a fresh challenge by working in a unique and special area. By joining us now, you will play a key role from the earliest stages.
As a Planning Officer, you will contribute to the preparation, monitoring and review of planning policy across the district. You will research and analyse planning information, assist in the production of key policies and support consultation and public engagement activities. There is also significant opportunity to work collaboratively with neighbouring authorities and Norfolk County Council on strategic planning matters.
The role will allow the successful candidate the opportunity to further develop their skill set providing analysis and working to support other offices, project management, report writing and the opportunity to write guidance to expand on planning policy from the existing adopted Local Plan as well as national policy, and get involved in helping to identify and deliver site allocations by working with promoters and site owners. In addition, the role also offers the opportunity to work closely with the Council’s Development Management team and support communities with proactive advice and formal review of neighbourhood plans.
You will bring experience of working in a local government authority planning role or within a planning policy or development management environment, together with a good understanding of current and emerging planning legislation and guidance. You should be educated to degree level, with an RTPI recognised planning qualification. We are looking for someone who is self‑motivated and proactive, can write clear and concise reports, analyse complex information, manage priorities effectively and confidently communicate with a wide range of stakeholders. Knowledge and experience of GIS would be beneficial.
You will be working in a friendly and supportive team, with flexible working and hybrid working opportunities.
Benefits:
- Employee assistance program
- Discounts portal
- Salary sacrifice schemes (bikes, home electricals and EV car leasing – available after completion of probation period)
- A good work‑life balance, with many roles following our hybrid approach to work
- 25 days holiday per year, plus bank holidays, increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service (assuming the role is full‑time)
- Access to an excellent local government pension scheme based on your local authority career average earnings
We encourage applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Planning Officer (Policy) employer: NNDC
North Norfolk District Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can make a meaningful impact on local planning policies from the outset. With a strong emphasis on employee well-being, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for professional development, you will thrive in a supportive team culture while enjoying generous holiday entitlements and access to a robust pension scheme. Join us in this unique coastal area and contribute to shaping the future of our communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Officer (Policy)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at North Norfolk District Council on LinkedIn. 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 researching the Local Plan making process. Show us you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about the area and its unique challenges. Bring your A-game with examples of how you’ve tackled similar issues before!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After your interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. 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 by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the exciting work we’re doing.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Officer (Policy)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in local government planning roles. We want to see how your skills align with the specific requirements of the Planning Officer position.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to emphasise your ability to write clear and concise reports, as well as your analytical skills. We’re looking for someone who can manage priorities effectively, so give us examples of how you’ve done this in the past.
Research and Reflect:Take some time to research North Norfolk District Council and the Local Plan making process. Reflect on how your background and knowledge of current planning legislation can contribute to our goals. This will show us you’re genuinely interested!
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, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace our hybrid working approach!
How to prepare for a job interview at NNDC
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Make sure you brush up on current and emerging planning legislation and guidance. Familiarise yourself with the Local Plan and any recent changes in policy that may affect the role. This will show your commitment and understanding of the field.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss how you've analysed complex information in previous roles. Bring examples of reports you've written or projects you've managed, highlighting your ability to communicate findings clearly to various stakeholders.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would approach consultation and public engagement activities. Be ready to share your ideas on how to effectively involve communities in the planning process, as this is a key part of the role.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with other teams and authorities, be prepared to discuss your experience in collaborative projects. Highlight any successful partnerships you've built and how they contributed to project outcomes.
