At a Glance
- Tasks: Support planning applications and ensure smooth operations in a busy team.
- Company: Join Publica Group Ltd, transforming local services with a customer-focused approach.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 27 days leave, health cash plan, and generous pension contributions.
- Other info: Agile working environment with opportunities for career growth and community involvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on your community while developing valuable skills in planning.
- Qualifications: NVQ level 1 or GCSE in Maths and English; good IT and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 35611 - 35611 £ per year.
Are you an organised and customer-focused professional looking to contribute to the vital work of local planning? We’re looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Planning Support Officer to join our busy and supportive Planning Services team. Based in Coleford, Forest of Dean, this permanent role offers an exciting opportunity to support planning applications that shape our local communities.
What you’ll be doing:
- Registering planning applications, checking plans and technical documents for accuracy
- Liaising with applicants, consultees, and Council Members to ensure applications are ready for proper assessment
- Handling application fees, payments, receipts, and refunds via phone and email
- Maintaining accurate internal records and data
- Supporting colleagues across the service as needed
This is a hands-on role in which you'll learn about planning processes while building strong working relationships across departments and with the public.
What we’re looking for:
- Qualifications equivalent to NVQ level 1 or GCSE in Maths and English
- Understanding of the issues affecting Planning
- Ability and/or aptitude to deal with professionals and the general public within a customer-oriented service
- Good level of IT skills - MS Office and aptitude to learn new IT skills (experience of Uniform IT system useful)
- Communicates effectively at all levels (good verbal and written skills)
Special conditions:
- There may be a requirement to work at other Publica Group (Support) Ltd and/or client locations to meet the needs of the business
- You will be expected to work reasonable additional hours in line with the needs of the service
- Ability to travel
What we can do for you:
- Agile working allowing a mix of home and office working
- Flexible working arrangements (depending on the role)
- 27 days paid annual leave (pro rata if you are working part time) plus bank holidays and an extra two volunteering days off a year for you to support a charity of your choice
- Renewed again for another year there is a health cash plan giving you cash back on health, dental and eye care
- Pension scheme with a good employer contribution of up to 7% of your earnings
- Employee Assistance Programme 24/7, providing positive, preventative and supportive advice and counselling to deal with everyday events and issues
- Cycle to work scheme
- Salary sacrifice car lease scheme with significant tax and NI savings to be made on electric cars
- Generous sickness cover above statutory entitlements
- Additional income protection, covering 50% of your salary for potentially a further five years if you are unable to work due to sickness or injury
- Life assurance, currently four times your annual salary
About Us: You will be employed by Publica Group Ltd which was created by four partner Councils (West Oxfordshire District Council, Cotswold District Council, Cheltenham Borough Council and Forest of Dean District Council) to deliver more efficient and improved services. Publica is committed to meeting its statutory and moral duties to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people under 18 years of age and adults at risk who are the recipients of its services and/or activities. Publica is a unique place to work, established to transform the way local services are delivered, fundamentally rethinking the way our services are designed and delivered in a digital era, making us a customer-focused organisation driven by real user needs.
Planning Support Officer in Coleford employer: Publica Group Limited
Publica Group Ltd is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can make a real impact on public sector insurance and risk management. With a strong focus on employee development and a collaborative culture, we provide opportunities for growth and innovation while ensuring a supportive atmosphere in the beautiful Gloucestershire area. Join us to be part of a team dedicated to delivering high-quality services that protect our communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Support Officer in Coleford
✨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 Publica Group Limited, 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 Publica Group Limited 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 Support Officer in Coleford
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 Publica Group Limited 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 Publica Group Limited
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Publica Group Limited, 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 Publica Group Limited.
