Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage complex planning projects across various sectors.
- Company: Join a leading multi-disciplinary consultancy focused on sustainable development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Work on nationally significant projects that shape the future of infrastructure.
- Qualifications: Degree in Town Planning or related field; MRTPI status preferred.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on professional development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Bristol or Cardiff
Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading multi-disciplinary consultancy in their search for an experienced Senior or Principal Planning Consultant to join a highly regarded and growing planning team in the South West / South Wales. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of sustainable infrastructure and development, supporting nationally significant projects across sectors such as energy, transport, utilities, ports & harbours, and the built environment. The role offers excellent career progression, exposure to high-profile projects, and the chance to work within a collaborative, forward-thinking consultancy environment.
The Role
As a Senior / Principal Planning Consultant, you will play a key role in the delivery and management of complex planning projects, working closely with clients and multi-disciplinary teams. Responsibilities will include:
- Acting as Planning Lead or supporting lead on a range of projects across multiple sectors
- Managing and delivering planning inputs for complex infrastructure and development schemes
- Leading or contributing to bids, tenders, and framework submissions
- Acting as lead consultant on multi-disciplinary projects, including project management responsibilities
- Mentoring and supporting junior members of the planning team
- Supporting business development and strengthening client relationships
- Working collaboratively with environmental, engineering, and design specialists
About You
To be successful in this role, you are likely to have:
- A degree in Town Planning or a related discipline
- MRTPI status or actively working towards chartership
- Strong experience in planning applications and consenting regimes (e.g. TCPA, DCO, TWAO or similar)
- Experience in strategic planning and planning policy
- An understanding of EIA processes (desirable but not essential)
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- The ability to manage multiple projects to tight deadlines and budgets
- Confidence working within multi-disciplinary teams and engaging directly with clients
What’s On Offer
- Competitive salary depending on experience
- Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
- Clear progression opportunities within a supportive consultancy environment
- Exposure to nationally significant and future-focused projects
- A comprehensive benefits package covering wellbeing, financial security, and professional development
Interested? The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones.
Senior/Principal Planning Consultant employer: Penguin Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Penguin Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior/Principal Planning Consultant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Senior/Principal Planning Consultant role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company and its projects. We want to see you shine, so think about how your experience aligns with their work in sustainable infrastructure and development. Show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications with us!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior/Principal Planning Consultant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior/Principal Planning Consultant role. Highlight your relevant experience in planning applications and project management, and don’t forget to mention your MRTPI status if you have it!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about sustainable infrastructure and how your skills align with the consultancy's goals. Keep it concise but impactful.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written and verbal communication skills are key for this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear language and structure your documents well to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Penguin Recruitment
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the key projects you've worked on. Be ready to discuss your role in managing complex planning projects and how you contributed to their success. This will show your expertise and give the interviewer confidence in your abilities.
✨Brush Up on Relevant Legislation
Since the role involves navigating planning applications and consenting regimes, it’s crucial to be well-versed in relevant legislation like TCPA, DCO, and TWAO. Familiarise yourself with recent changes or case studies that highlight your understanding of these processes.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Senior/Principal Planning Consultant, you'll need to communicate effectively with clients and multi-disciplinary teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders or mentored junior team members, demonstrating your strong verbal and written communication skills.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in previous projects and how you managed them. This will help you illustrate your strategic planning skills and ability to work under pressure.
