At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning policy development and manage community infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join Solihull Borough Council, a forward-thinking local authority.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, remote work flexibility, and professional growth opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community through impactful planning initiatives.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning policy and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 19.81 - 19.81 £ per hour.
Rate: £19.81 per hour PAYE
Location: Remote with 1 day in the Solihull office per week if required
Contract: 4 - 6 Months
Working hours: 37 per week
Overview: Opus People Solutions are recruiting on behalf of Solihull Borough Council for a Planning Officer with experience of monitoring and managing Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and Section 106 agreements and process.
Job Purpose: The Planning Officer will support the delivery of Solihull Borough Council's preparation, production and review of documents associated with the planning policy/housing strategy formulation for the Borough, including the tasks associated with producing such documents.
Responsibilities:
- To lead and/or support policy development on one or more specialist areas of planning policy/housing strategy. Such areas may include planning for new homes; affordable housing and delivery; employment; retail; sustainability appraisals; gypsy & traveller accommodation; and infrastructure delivery (including S106/CIL).
- To develop and/or maintain one or more of the Council’s monitoring systems in relation to planning & development.
- To lead on commissioning evidence base studies (or similar) to be undertaken by external consultants; including scoping, procuring and overseeing the appointed consultants.
- To take a lead on advising and liaising with nominated parish councils and/or neighbourhood forums to support their neighbourhood planning preparations.
- To prepare and present reports to Council/Cabinet meetings, boards or committees as required.
- Presenting evidence in respect of planning appeals, including acting as expert witness at public inquiries and examinations in public.
- To provide support & guidance to other officers working on aspects of planning and housing delivery.
Essential Knowledge required:
- Advanced understanding and application of relevant planning policy, procedure and legislation relevant to the role and commensurate to the operating level.
- Advanced knowledge and understanding of the role and purpose of the Local Authority, the responsibilities of the Service area, and the political operating arena.
- Experience of presenting effectively in meetings e.g. with stakeholders.
- Experience of working flexibly, prioritising tasks in order to meet deadlines.
Essential Skills:
- Ability to take ownership, and show accountability and responsibility for your behaviours/actions; working well as part of a team.
- Excellent verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
- Ability to show resilience and able to manage contentious situations and deal with matters of dispute.
- You have professional personal presentation to reflect the customer facing nature of the business.
- Demonstrable commitment to Continual Professional Development and personal development, with a willingness to identify your development needs.
- Ability to demonstrate clear awareness of our Equal Opportunities and Safeguarding responsibilities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Development Officer in Solihull
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Development Officer in Solihull
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Opus People Solutions Ltd
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Opus People Solutions Ltd.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Opus People Solutions Ltd that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
