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- Tasks: Manage complex planning applications and support junior officers in decision-making.
- Company: Join a dynamic team shaping the future of Somerset's development.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local communities while developing your expertise in planning.
- Qualifications: Degree in Town Planning or related field; RTPI membership is essential.
- Other info: Handle a caseload of 35-50 applications, with opportunities for public engagement.
Role Purpose
To be responsible for the processing and determination of a varied and complex caseload of planning applications (including major development – economic, inward investment, change of use and residential schemes) across Somerset, through negotiation with developers and their agents, considering third party comments, liaising with members and drafting reports to Planning Committee and for delegated decisions.
To provide support and guidance to planning officers and consultees dealing with the processing of planning applications, undertaking monitoring and compliance functions and other planning functions to meet agreed timescales, make robust decisions, and deliver appropriate development.
To prepare appeal statements and attend hearings and public enquiries as expert witness in connection with planning and enforcement appeals, to represent the Local Planning Authority and defend its decisions.
The Senior Planning Officers deal with major and more complex minor and other applications and all associated consenting requirements such as discharge of conditions and non-material amendments.
This can range from change of use, advert consents, prior approvals, major economic, inward investment and major housing development. Applications can include EIA development and Habitats Regulation Assessments. They provide pre application advice on in principle and detailed schemes and instruct and negotiate on legal agreements to ensure development proposals meet policy requirements and deliver required mitigation in accordance with legislation.
At this level, officers present at committee and defend appeal decisions through written representations, hearings and public inquiries.
The Senior Officers offer support to the Planning Officers and Technicians in terms of judgement, legislation interpretation and knowledge of case law, appeal decisions and policies. They are responsible for their own caseloads of applications which are subject to 8 and 13 week statutory determination periods as recorded through Government Performance tables. These officers have working caseloads ranging from 35-50 reflecting the more complex nature of the applications.
Qualifications:
- Degree in Town Planning or related subject and equivalent experience. The postholder will require membership of (or be eligible to join) the RTPI (Essential)
Knowledge:
- Ability to provide detailed advice across a range of planning issues in a development management/planning environment, including process and procedural matters (Essential)
- Good knowledge of planning, enforcement, planning policy, case law and relevant legislation (Essential)
- Interpretation of legislation – interpretation of relevant planning legislation and case law in respect of issues arising from pre-application enquiries, applications, appeals and planning enforcement (Essential)
Skills:
- Good negotiation skills and the ability to contribute positively to the resolution of issues (Essential)
- Working under pressure and to strict deadlines, prioritising, organising, and planning own and others fluctuating workloads (Essential)
- Ability to communicate with a range of stakeholders clearly and proactively (Essential)
- Adaptation and responding to change (Essential)
- Ability to use influence and persuasion to achieve objectives (Essential)
- Ability to use thoughtful judgement to manage complex service delivery (Essential)
- Flexible approach to the working day (Essential)
- Shares knowledge and expertise with others (Essential)
Senior Planning Officer Senior Planning Officer Senior Planning Officer Senior Planning Officer Senior Planning Officer Senior Planning Officer Senior Planning Officer Senior Planning Officer
Senior Planning Officer employer: Talent Dice Ltd
Contact Detail:
Talent Dice Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific planning policies and legislation relevant to Somerset. Understanding local regulations and recent case law will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former planning officers in Somerset. Engaging with professionals in the field can provide you with insider knowledge about the challenges and expectations of the role, which can be invaluable during discussions with interviewers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your negotiation skills in detail. Since the role involves liaising with developers and stakeholders, having concrete examples of how you've successfully navigated complex negotiations in the past will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends in urban planning and development. Being knowledgeable about recent developments in the field will allow you to speak confidently about how these trends could impact planning decisions in Somerset.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in planning, particularly with complex applications and negotiations. Emphasise your qualifications, such as your degree in Town Planning and any RTPI membership.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly articulate your understanding of the role and how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Mention specific examples of your negotiation skills and experience with planning legislation.
Showcase Relevant Knowledge: Demonstrate your knowledge of planning policies, case law, and enforcement issues in your application. This could be through specific examples of past projects or challenges you've navigated successfully.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread all documents for clarity and professionalism. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, as attention to detail is crucial in this field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent Dice Ltd
✨Showcase Your Knowledge of Planning Legislation
Make sure to brush up on relevant planning legislation and case law before the interview. Being able to discuss specific examples of how you've interpreted legislation in past roles will demonstrate your expertise and suitability for the Senior Planning Officer position.
✨Demonstrate Strong Negotiation Skills
Prepare to discuss situations where you've successfully negotiated with stakeholders, such as developers or local authorities. Highlight your ability to resolve conflicts and reach agreements that align with planning policies, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in complex planning scenarios. Think about past experiences where you had to manage a challenging caseload or meet tight deadlines, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
As a Senior Planning Officer, you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing technical planning issues, to showcase your communication skills during the interview.
