At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex planning enforcement investigations and shape service improvements.
- Company: Shropshire Local Planning Authority, covering diverse landscapes and rich professional environments.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, retail discounts, pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment with varied cases and community focus.
- Qualifications: Degree in planning or related field, significant enforcement experience, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Shropshire is one of the largest Local Planning Authorities in England, covering an exceptionally diverse mix of landscapes—from Green Belt and National Landscapes to two World Heritage Sites. This creates a rich and stimulating professional environment for planning enforcement, with cases that vary widely in complexity, geography and sensitivity. Our Planning Enforcement Team manages over 500 cases each year, ranging from major unauthorised developments to minor technical breaches. You will be entering a fast‑paced, high‑variety service where no two days look the same.
Responsibilities
- Leading on significant, complex and high‑profile enforcement investigations
- Shaping the future direction of enforcement through service improvements and modernised processes
- Supporting colleagues across the North and South areas as they navigate high caseloads and complex public expectations
- Ensuring decision‑making is robust, proportionate and transparent
You will work within a multi‑disciplinary environment, collaborating daily with specialists in Development Management, Highways, Trees, Historic Environment, Building Control, Ecology, Policy, Legal Services and others. The team also maintains close working relationships with local councillors, residents, town and parish councils, and external agencies – ensuring decisions are informed, balanced and community‑focused. You will be part of an experienced and supportive team structure that includes Enforcement Officers and a Senior Enforcement Officer, all working cohesively across the countywide service. Rising case numbers and increasing public expectations make this a challenging environment – but also one where your leadership will have real impact.
Qualifications
- A degree and postgraduate qualification in planning or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
- Significant planning enforcement experience and the ability to work with minimal supervision
- A solid understanding of planning enforcement legislation, procedures and best practice
- Excellent communication skills, with confidence engaging with residents, councillors, legal representatives and partner organisations
- Experience supervising or managing workloads in a high‑pressure environment
- A commitment to ongoing professional development
Desirable but not essential
- Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) or equivalent professional body
- A recognised management qualification
Essential
- A full driving licence and access to a vehicle for work
Benefits
- Generous annual leave commencing at 28 days, increasing with service to 33 days (pro rata for part time). With additional annual leave purchase policy.
- Access to a benefits platform with a wide range of retail discounts and salary sacrifice schemes (cars, bikes, AVCs)
- Employer contribution Pension Scheme – Shropshire County Pension Fund
- Supportive carers and parental policies (maternity, paternity, adoption leave, special leave)
- Many opportunities for flexible and agile working, we offer a hybrid model of working to promote flexible working around personal and family commitments.
Principal Planning Enforcement Officer employer: Shropshire Council
Shropshire Local Planning Authority offers an exceptional work environment for the Principal Planning Enforcement Officer, characterised by a diverse range of landscapes and complex cases that ensure no two days are alike. With a strong emphasis on professional development, generous annual leave, and flexible working arrangements, employees are supported in achieving a healthy work-life balance while making a meaningful impact in their community. The collaborative culture fosters teamwork across various disciplines, ensuring that every decision is informed and community-focused.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Enforcement Officer
✨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 Shropshire Council, 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 Shropshire Council 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 Principal Planning Enforcement Officer
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 Shropshire Council 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 Shropshire Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Shropshire Council, 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 Shropshire Council.
