At a Glance
- Tasks: Help shape Gateshead's future by developing and delivering the Local Plan.
- Company: Gateshead Council, committed to making the borough thrive.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and health support.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to community-focused planning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable growth and climate initiatives.
- Qualifications: Understanding of spatial planning and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Who we are & what we stand for: Do you want to help make Gateshead a place where everyone thrives? If that sounds like you, keep reading – we might be the perfect match. We’re delighted that you’re interested in working with us. You’ll be joining us at a very exciting time. We pride ourselves on an ambitious, forward‑thinking approach to caring for Gateshead and its people, and we believe our employees reflect that spirit, enabling Gateshead to thrive. With flexible time, hybrid working and a complete suite of employee benefits, we hope the salary is only part of what attracts our staff.
About the role: You will join the Spatial Planning team within the Climate Change, Compliance, Planning and Transport Service at Gateshead Council. The team plays a critical role in shaping the future of the borough by developing and delivering the Local Plan, supporting sustainable growth and responding to the climate emergency. Working collaboratively with internal services, external partners and the Combined Authority, the team blends policy, evidence, innovation and digital approaches to ensure planning decisions are forward‑thinking, data‑driven and community‑focused.
What you will do:
- Support the preparation and delivery of the Council’s Local Plan and the evidence base
- Shape planning policy and contribute to key strategies, including climate emergency initiatives
- Provide professional planning advice on applications, pre‑application enquiries, appeals and development proposals
- Work with Council services, stakeholders and regional partners to influence development
- Develop and manage monitoring systems to track Local Plan performance
- Contribute to service improvement, including digitisation, data analysis and funding opportunities
- Prepare reports, consultation materials and planning documents for a range of audiences
- Support consultation, engagement and evidence gathering to inform policy development
- Manage your workload effectively while contributing to wider team priorities and objectives
What you will bring:
- A solid grounding in spatial planning, with an understanding of the planning system, policy development and (at higher levels) legislation and emerging approaches
- Strong communication, presentation and report‑writing skills, with the ability to engage different audiences
- An appropriate level of education equivalent to Level 2 qualifications (including English and Mathematics) alongside a relevant qualification (or working towards one), such as Town Planning or Geography
- Experience of managing your own workload, working both independently and collaboratively, and contributing to projects (including more complex work at higher grades)
- Confidence in using IT, data and digital planning tools, including monitoring and analysis
- The ability to think creatively, work flexibly to deadlines and demonstrate initiative and problem solving
- A customer‑focused, team‑oriented approach, with negotiation skills and (at higher grades) experience of leading work or supporting others
What’s in it for you:
- Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
- Pension Scheme: We invest in your future with a Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Generous Annual Leave: 28 days, rising to 32 days after 5 years, with the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
- Flexible Working Hours: Up to 26 flexi days per year.
- Hybrid & Flexible Working: We support a healthy work‑life balance with flexible and hybrid options.
- Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development and progression opportunities.
- Health & Wellbeing Support: Discounted gym memberships, mental health resources and more.
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Tax‑efficient cycle to work programme.
- Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme: Salary‑sacrifice cars in partnership with NHS Fleet Solutions after 12 months service.
- Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Via the VIVUP employee benefits platform.
Our commitment to you: We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to have a culture and workplace where our people feel a sense of belonging, are respected and empowered to do their best work. We know that we deliver better services when our workforce reflects the full range of backgrounds and experiences in the society we serve. We welcome applications from suitably qualified people from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.
Planning Officers in Gateshead employer: North East Ambition
Centurion Multi-Academy Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional growth of its staff while fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture. With a competitive salary and a commitment to operational excellence, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the educational outcomes of pupils and the wider community. Located in a supportive environment, the Trust offers unique opportunities for leadership development and strategic involvement in shaping the future of education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Officers in Gateshead
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like North East Ambition, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like North East Ambition and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Officers in Gateshead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for North East Ambition and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at North East Ambition
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with North East Ambition, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for North East Ambition.
