Planning Assistant in Belfast

Location: 9-21 Adelaide Street, Belfast, BT2 8GD

Contract Type: Temporary

Hours: 37 hours per week

Pay Rate: £13.45 per hour

Work Pattern: Hybrid - 3 days office-based and 2 days remote following completion of the initial training period

About the Role

Prime Recruitment Services is recruiting for a Planning Assistant to support Belfast City Council's Planning Service. This role will provide administrative, research and operational support to Planning Officers in relation to planning applications, planning control and general planning enquiries. It is particularly suited to someone currently studying towards a relevant planning or property-related qualification who is looking to gain practical experience within a local government planning environment. The postholder will work with Planning Officers, council colleagues, elected representatives and members of the public and will also be required to undertake site visits throughout Belfast.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with the processing of planning applications, related applications and potential breaches of planning control.
• Support Planning Officers with the preparation of reports and recommendations relating to planning applications.
• Research planning histories, previous applications and other relevant planning information.
• Respond professionally to planning enquiries from members of the public by telephone, email, in writing and in person.
• Provide information regarding planning matters, including enquiries relating to whether planning permission may be required.
• Undertake site visits at locations throughout Belfast to record relevant site information and assist Planning Officers with casework.
• Provide support and advice to Business Support Officers regarding application validation, consultation and publicity requirements.
• Assist with studies, research and other work associated with the preparation and development of planning policy and the Belfast Local Development Plan.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure information is processed in accordance with council procedures.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and the effective delivery of the Planning Service.
• Maintain appropriate confidentiality when handling personal, commercially sensitive or politically sensitive information.
• Represent Belfast City Council professionally when dealing with members of the public, elected representatives, internal departments and external organisations.
• Undertake any other appropriate duties relevant to the role as required.

Essential Criteria

• Applicants must, by the closing date: Be studying towards a relevant third-level qualification, such as Planning, Property Development, Town and Regional Planning, Urban Planning or an equivalent relevant qualification.
• Hold a full driving licence enabling them to drive in Northern Ireland and have access to a vehicle for official business, or have access to an alternative form of transport that enables them to meet the travel requirements of the role.
• No previous professional planning experience is essential. The position is suitable for candidates seeking practical experience to support the development of a career within the planning profession. Applicants should, however, demonstrate an understanding of planning-related issues and an interest in working within a planning environment.

Skills and Attributes

• Customer Service: You should be able to communicate positively and professionally with members of the public, council employees, elected representatives and other stakeholders, including when dealing with sensitive, challenging or complex enquiries.
• Communication: You must demonstrate effective verbal communication skills and be able to explain information clearly and appropriately to different audiences. You should also have strong written communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear and accurate correspondence, reports and emails using appropriate language and tone.
• Teamwork: You should be able to work effectively as part of a team, contribute towards shared objectives and provide support to colleagues when required. You must also be capable of working independently and using your own initiative.
• Organisation and Attention to Detail: You should be able to organise and prioritise your workload, manage competing tasks and meet deadlines. Accuracy and attention to detail will be important when reviewing planning information, maintaining records and supporting application processing.
• IT Skills: Applicants should be comfortable using standard Microsoft Office applications and other computer-based systems, including: Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Email and electronic communication systems, Databases and electronic record-management systems.
• Confidentiality and Political Awareness: You must understand the importance of confidentiality when dealing with personal, sensitive or politically sensitive information and be able to interact appropriately with elected representatives and other stakeholders.

Additional Information

The role will involve site visits to locations throughout Belfast, and applicants must therefore be able to meet the travel requirements of the position. Reasonable adjustments will be considered for applicants with disabilities in accordance with applicable equality legislation and the operational requirements of the role.