At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transport planning initiatives and shape the future of transport in Thurrock.
- Company: Thurrock Council, committed to improving local transport services.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to innovative transport solutions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on transport infrastructure and community mobility.
- Qualifications: Experience in transport policy or strategy development at a senior level.
The predicted salary is between 53460 - 53460 £ per year.
Salary: £53,460 per annum (pro rata if part-time)
Grade: G
Contract Type: Fixed Term until 31 March 2028
Working Hours: 37 hours per week
About the Department
The Strategic Transportation Team oversees three key areas of work related to transport services within Thurrock – Strategic Transport (Transport Policy and Modal Shift); Road Safety Education; and Transport Mobility (Bus). This role sits within the Strategic Transport function but will work with colleagues across the wider team and with colleagues across the Council to deliver our core priorities and statutory duties. The Strategic Transport Team is primarily responsible for delivering the Council's Local Transport Plan and supporting policy frameworks, while also promoting modal shift, in particular the transition to walking, cycling and wheeling across the borough. We work closely with Major Employers and Businesses in Thurrock through the Travel Plan process, while working with stakeholders to develop opportunities for new and improved transport infrastructure for the residents and workers of Thurrock.
About the Role
As a Principal Transport Planner, you will be responsible for:
- Aligning Strategic Transport functions and policies with the wider council corporate objectives;
- Overseeing the delivery of key components of the Local Transport Plan, in particular subject-specific strategies and policies alongside the soon to be adopted Transport Strategy 2026-2040;
- Supporting the development of the council’s walking, cycling and wheeling agenda, working collaboratively with the Council’s Transport Delivery Service and with Active Travel England;
- Overseeing input into the Development Management process related to Active Travel Infrastructure, Modal Shift, Travel Plans, and any other appropriate considerations, working collaboratively with colleagues from the Highways Development Management team to develop joint responses;
- Working with key stakeholders both within and external to the council to promote and deliver the wider national, regional, and local transport agenda.
This role offers the chance to make a real difference by helping set into place the framework for improved transport opportunities across the borough, supporting its ambitious growth and delivery agenda.
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for someone who has:
- Significant experience working in Local Transport Authority environment at a Senior or Principal level;
- Alternatively, experience of policy and strategy development, with an ability to integrate transport principles into workstreams;
- Strong writing and analytical skills;
- Project Management and commissioning experience to work with third parties and consultants to support the delivery of priorities and outputs;
- Ability and willingness to work collaboratively with partners and colleagues both within and external to the council.
Essential qualifications: Transport related degree or other qualifications, or alternatively experience within Local Authority, transport policy or policy and strategy development roles at a Principal level.
DBS Check: Not Required
Benefits of Working with Us
At Thurrock Council, we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Generous annual leave entitlement;
- Local Government Pension Scheme;
- Flexible and hybrid working opportunities (where applicable);
- Ongoing training and professional development;
- Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support;
- Staff discounts and local offers;
- A supportive and inclusive working environment.
Important Dates
Closing Date (Redeployment Only): 4th June 2026
Closing Date (Internal & External): 28th June 2026
Interview Date: W/C 13th July 2026
Additional Information
If you have any questions about the role or interview process, please contact: Navtej Tung – Strategic Transport Manager ntung@thurrock.gov.uk | 01375 652219
To view the Job Profile and Person Specification, please follow the link below: Download Job Profile (PDF Document) If the Job Profile and Person Specification list any qualifications as essential, please also upload copies of those relevant qualifications.
Principal Transport Planner in Grays employer: Thurrock Council
Thurrock Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. As a Principal Transport Planner, you will benefit from generous annual leave, a Local Government Pension Scheme, and flexible working opportunities, all while contributing to meaningful transport initiatives that enhance the community. With ongoing training and professional development, this role provides a unique opportunity to grow your career while making a tangible impact on the borough's transport landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Transport Planner in Grays
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the transport planning field. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the council’s current transport policies and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their Local Transport Plan and support their ambitious growth agenda.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your project management skills! Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully managed projects in the past, especially those that involved collaboration with stakeholders. This will demonstrate your ability to work effectively within the council's framework.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making a difference in Thurrock’s transport landscape.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Transport Planner in Grays
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the Principal Transport Planner role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we’re looking for.
Show Off Your Writing Skills:Since strong writing skills are essential for this role, take the time to craft a clear and concise application. We want to see your ability to communicate effectively, so make every word count!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to showcase your significant experience in a Local Transport Authority environment or in policy development. We’re keen to see how your background can contribute to our goals at Thurrock Council.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thurrock Council
✨Know Your Transport Policies
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest transport policies and strategies, especially those relevant to Thurrock. Familiarise yourself with the Local Transport Plan and the upcoming Transport Strategy 2026-2040. This will show your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Skills
As a Principal Transport Planner, collaboration is key. Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked with stakeholders or teams in the past. Highlight your ability to integrate transport principles into various workstreams and how you’ve managed projects with third parties.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Prowess
Strong writing and analytical skills are essential for this role. Bring along examples of reports or analyses you've conducted that demonstrate your ability to interpret data and make informed decisions. Be ready to discuss how these skills can benefit the council's transport agenda.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the council’s transport initiatives, challenges they face, or their vision for the future. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your career goals.
