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- Tasks: Provide expert urban design advice on major planning applications and projects.
- Company: Join Oxford City Council, a leader in heritage and innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible working, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of Oxford with your passion for design and sustainability.
- Qualifications: Degree in urban design or related field; experience in planning and design.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with a dynamic team focused on impactful urban development.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Oxford is a city defined by its heritage, innovation and global reputation. At Oxford City Council, we are committed to ensuring that growth and change are underpinned by exceptional design quality and a strong sense of place. We are seeking an Urban Design Officer to join our well‑established Urban Design team, working on major development proposals and city‑shaping projects across Oxford. This is a varied and influential role for someone passionate about delivering high‑quality, distinctive places in a complex and historic urban environment.
About the role
As an Urban Design Officer, you will provide specialist urban design advice on significant planning applications, contribute to planning policy and design guidance, and play a key role in facilitating the Oxford Design Review Panel. Working closely with planners, elected Members, developers and a wide range of external stakeholders, you will help ensure that new development meets Oxford’s high standards for design, sustainability and place‑making.
Key responsibilities
- Provide specialist urban design advice on major planning applications and pre‑application enquiries
- Support planning colleagues on the urban design aspects of complex development proposals
- Contribute to the preparation of design guidance, planning policy and wider design‑led projects
- Facilitate and support the Oxford Design Review Panel, including preparation, attendance and follow‑up
- Present clear, balanced urban design advice to a range of audiences, including committees and stakeholders
- Work collaboratively across council teams and with external partners to promote high standards of urban design and place‑making
About you
You will bring professional expertise, sound judgement and a collaborative approach to your work. You will have:
- A degree in urban design, architecture or a closely related discipline
- Membership of, or working towards membership of, the Urban Design Group, RTPI or RIBA
- Demonstrable experience dealing with the urban design aspects of major development proposals
- Strong working knowledge of the UK planning system, including current planning law and guidance
- Experience of presenting to elected Members or formal committees
- The ability to produce balanced, evidence‑based recommendations and exercise professional judgement with confidence
- Strong analytical, communication and IT skills
- The ability to build positive and effective working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders
Working arrangements
This role is temp role initially for 3 months based in Oxford, with a hybrid approach to working. Office attendance is flexible and driven by meetings, with around two days per week on site typically expected. Thursdays are commonly office days. A four‑day condensed working pattern may also be considered.
Urban Design Officer employer: Oxford City Council
Contact Detail:
Oxford City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Urban Design Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in urban design and related fields on platforms like LinkedIn. Join local meetups or events to connect with people who can give you insights into the industry and potentially refer you for roles.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your enthusiasm for urban design and how it shapes communities. Share examples of projects that inspire you and how you envision contributing to Oxford's unique landscape.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Oxford City Council’s recent projects and initiatives. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your knowledge about their work, making you stand out as a candidate who truly understands their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Urban Design Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Urban Design: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for urban design shine through! Share specific examples of projects or experiences that fuelled your passion for creating distinctive places in urban environments.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the key responsibilities and requirements mentioned in the job description. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with what we’re looking for at Oxford City Council.
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Use straightforward language and structure your application logically. This will help us easily understand your qualifications and how you can contribute to our Urban Design team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with Oxford City Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford City Council
✨Know Your Urban Design Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of urban design principles and the UK planning system. Be ready to discuss how your expertise aligns with Oxford's high standards for design and sustainability, as this will show that you're genuinely passionate about the role.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
Think about specific projects or proposals you've worked on in the past. Be prepared to share examples of how you provided urban design advice and collaborated with various stakeholders. This will demonstrate your practical experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be presenting to committees and stakeholders, practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock presentations to friends or colleagues to get comfortable with your delivery and receive feedback.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Research the Urban Design team at Oxford City Council and understand their recent projects and initiatives. This will help you tailor your responses during the interview and show that you're keen to work collaboratively within their existing framework.