At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead on planning enforcement, investigate breaches, and ensure compliance across Somerset.
- Company: Join Somerset Council, a progressive authority shaping the future of communities.
- Benefits: Generous leave, flexible working, health support, and a secure pension scheme.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on planning projects and improve lives in beautiful Somerset.
- Qualifications: Degree in Planning or related field, with significant enforcement experience.
The predicted salary is between 45438 - 49954 £ per year.
Salary: Grade 9, ranging from £45,438 to £49,954 per annum, with a time limited recruitment allowance of £2,289 until 30/04/2028.
Contract: Permanent. Hours: 37 hours a week, Based in Shepton Mallet (Full or Part Time). Closing date: 30th November 2026.
About the Role
Join Somerset Council and help shape the future of Somerset. As one of the UK's largest unitary authorities, we deliver a diverse range of high-profile planning projects, from major regeneration and housing growth to nationally significant infrastructure and rural development. As a Senior Planning Enforcement Officer, you'll take the lead on complex enforcement and compliance matters across Somerset. You'll investigate breaches of planning control, carry out site visits, manage challenging cases, and take appropriate enforcement action to ensure developments comply with planning policy. Working closely with colleagues, stakeholders and local communities, you'll provide expert advice, prepare reports and represent the council at appeals and court proceedings when required. You'll also support junior colleagues and help drive continuous improvement within our planning enforcement service. Join a collaborative, forward-thinking team that offers flexibility, professional support and excellent opportunities for career development. This is more than a planning role. It's your opportunity to shape the future of Somerset.
How You'll Make a Difference
- Strong knowledge of planning legislation, policy and enforcement
- Experience in planning enforcement, site inspections and legal processes
- Skilled in preparing reports, notices and committee presentations
- Degree-qualified in Planning (or related field), with RTPI membership desirable
- Strong analytical, communication, negotiation and organisation skills
- Able to interpret legislation, manage caseloads and work collaboratively with stakeholders
What You'll Bring
- Significant experience in planning enforcement within a local authority planning service
- Strong people-management and leadership skills, with experience leading large or complex teams
- Confidence advising elected members and senior officers on complex planning enforcement matters
- Sound understanding of planning legislation, decision-making and performance frameworks
- Degree-level qualification and MRTPI membership (or eligibility)
Why Join Us?
At Somerset Council, we're a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities. Based in one of England's most beautiful counties, it's a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life.
- Generous annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave.
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK's most enhanced and secure pension schemes.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance, where service needs allow.
- Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services.
- Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work.
Further Information
30 days of annual leave (additional to bank holidays). We are happy to consider part time and flexible working patterns - we work hard to sustain a good work-life balance and are passionate about maintaining a positive and supportive working culture. Flexible and Hybrid working (1-2 days per week in the Office) based in Shepton Mallet.
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for VISA sponsorship. We believe diversity makes us stronger and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, whose unique perspectives help us better serve the people of Somerset.
Senior Planning Enforcement Officer in Taunton employer: Somerset County Council
Somerset County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the welfare of children and families in Yeovil. With a strong commitment to continuous professional development and flexible hybrid working arrangements, employees are empowered to manage complex caseloads while contributing to meaningful service improvements. Join us to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people, all within a collaborative and nurturing environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Enforcement Officer in Taunton
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Enforcement Officer in Taunton
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 Somerset County 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 Somerset County Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Somerset County 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 Somerset County Council.
