At a Glance
- Tasks: Dive into hands-on planning work and collaborate with clients and councils.
- Company: Join a fast-growing, independent consultancy in North London.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, mentorship support, and real responsibility from day one.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities as the business expands.
- Why this job: Skip corporate red tape and make an impact in urban planning.
- Qualifications: Degree in Town Planning and a proactive, problem-solving mindset.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 35000 £ per year.
Are you looking to join a small, agile team instead of getting lost in the administrative loops of a massive corporate firm? WEA Planning is an independent, fast-growing consultancy based in Archway, North London, where we value an honest, hard-working, and friendly environment. We are seeking a highly adaptable, proactive Graduate Town Planner to help us navigate the complexities of the UK planning system and deliver successful outcomes for our clients.
Because we are a small, agile practice, you will skip the corporate red tape and dive straight into hands-on work from your very first weeks. You will receive daily collaboration and direct mentorship from our Founder Director and Chartered RTPI planners, allowing you to build a well-rounded foundation for your career much faster than traditional corporate structures.
Your Day-to-Day Responsibilities
- Planning Appraisals: Researching local policy and assessing the development potential of various sites across London.
- Application Management: Preparing, coordinating, and submitting planning applications, including drafting supporting statements.
- Client & Council Liaison: Communicating directly with clients, architects, and local authority planning officers to progress projects.
- Site Visits: Conducting on-site inspections across London boroughs to assess constraints, context, and urban design layout.
- Appeals & Enforcement: Navigating complex enforcement notices and assisting with written representations for planning appeals.
What We Are Looking For
- Flexible Working: A balanced hybrid working model combining time in our North London office with remote work, ensuring you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
- Mentorship & RTPI Chartership Support: Daily guidance from senior team members and full support through your L-APC pathway.
- Real Responsibility & Broad Exposure: Immediate exposure to a wide variety of project scales, from residential extensions to complex commercial developments.
- Career Growth: As our independent business expands, your progression and responsibilities will grow with us.
Qualifications
- A degree or Master's in Town Planning (RTPI-accredited is highly preferred) with a foundational understanding of the UK planning system.
- A Problem-Solving Mindset: A proactive, adaptable self-starter who isn't afraid to ask questions, take ownership of tasks, and 'think outside the box'.
- Communication & Precision: Excellent written and verbal communication skills paired with a sharp eye for detail.
- Drive: Someone eager to learn the commercial realities of the industry and thrive within a growing business.
Graduate Town Planner employer: The WEA
WEA Planning offers an exceptional opportunity for a Graduate Town Planner to thrive in a supportive and dynamic environment. Located in Archway, North London, our small, agile team prioritises mentorship and hands-on experience, allowing you to develop your skills rapidly without the constraints of a large corporate structure. With flexible working arrangements and a commitment to employee growth, we ensure that your career can flourish alongside our expanding consultancy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Town Planner
✨Get Involved in Local Architecture Events
Check out local architecture meetups, exhibitions, and networking events. These are often goldmines for meeting people in the industry and might just help you land that entry-level spot at a fab firm like The WEA. You never know who might be looking for fresh talent!
✨Leverage Your University’s Resources
If you’re still in education, make the most of your university’s career services. They often have connections with firms looking for entry-level talent. Get in touch with your professors too, as they might have leads on openings in their networks!
✨Create a Killer Portfolio
Make sure your portfolio is sleek and showcases your best work—think sketches, models, and design projects that reflect your style. Sharing your work on platforms like Behance or even your own website can grab attention from firms like The WEA.
✨Apply Through Our Website - Be Bold!
Don’t underestimate the power of applying directly through our website! Tailor your application to show your passion for architecture and why you’re keen on joining The WEA. A personal touch can make you stand out in a sea of applicants.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Town Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:When applying for an entry-level architecture role like Graduate Town Planner at The WEA, don’t forget to include a link to your portfolio. We want to see your design work, whether it's from university projects or personal endeavours. Make sure it's well-organised and highlights your best pieces!
Tailor Your CV to Architecture:Your CV needs to sing the song of architecture! Focus on showcasing relevant coursework, software skills (like AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Revit), and any hands-on experience you’ve gained. This is your chance to demonstrate your technical skills and passion for the field.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:This is the perfect opportunity to express your enthusiasm for the architecture world. Share why you’re excited about the role at The WEA and what aspects of architecture particularly inspire you. Keep it under a page and make it personal—show us the real you!
Stay Open to Learning:Since this is an entry-level position, we want to see your motivation and eagerness to learn. Highlight any internships, volunteer experiences, or extra-curricular activities related to architecture. We love candidates who are ready to grow and develop their skills with us!
How to prepare for a job interview at The WEA
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
One of the best ways to stand out for an entry-level architecture role is to have a solid portfolio. Make sure it’s up-to-date and showcases your best projects—include any sketches, CAD drawings, or 3D models you’ve created. Be prepared to walk the interviewer through your thought process for each piece; they’ll want to see your design thinking in action!
✨Know Your Software
Architecture is heavily reliant on specific software tools. Brush up on programs like AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Revit before your interview. If you can demonstrate a good grasp of these tools or discuss how you've used them in projects during your studies, it’ll show you're ready to hit the ground running with the practical demands of the role.
✨Understand Design Trends
Being up-to-date with current architectural trends could really give you an edge. Whether it’s sustainability practices, contemporary design styles, or urban planning innovations, make sure you can discuss these topics in your interview. Show your passion for architecture by linking your thoughts back to your own design interests and how these trends inform your work.
✨Express Your Eagerness to Learn
Since this is an entry-level position, your potential for growth matters just as much as your existing skills. Be ready to express your eagerness to learn and adapt. Talk about any internships, coursework, or projects where you’ve taken the initiative to expand your skills, and mention how you're keen on receiving feedback and learning from more experienced colleagues at The WEA.
