At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transport planning initiatives and collaborate on innovative transport strategies.
- Company: Thurrock Council, a dynamic organisation making a real difference in the community.
- Benefits: Generous leave, flexible working, pension scheme, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of transport in Thurrock and impact local communities positively.
- Qualifications: Experience in transport policy or strategy development at a senior level.
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): 4 June 2026
Closing Date (Internal & External): 28 June 2026
Interview Date: W/C 13 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.
Why Thurrock?
Working at Thurrock Council gives you the opportunity to join an organisation that is changing at pace, one where you can make a real difference to the lives of the people we serve. Thurrock Council is moving towards a new community leadership approach which involves linking with local partners and communities as we shape our improvement for the years ahead. This is an exciting time to join us, to shape the future success of our changing organisation and to have a positive influence on our borough.
Our location
Thurrock is located on the north bank of the river Thames. Our urban centres are a vibrant mix of established towns and new young communities, with a diverse and growing population of around 160,000 residents. We are an emerging cultural and arts centre, home to the production centre for the Royal Opera House and the National Skills Academy for Creative and Cultural Skills. We have excellent retail and leisure opportunities, including Lakeside Shopping Centre, country parks, forests, and marshes. Thurrock is just half an hour journey away from the centre of London by train and well connected by road.
Staff benefits
We offer lots of staff benefits, including a generous annual leave entitlement and hybrid working. We champion flexible working and job share applications are welcome.
Further information can be found here Employment benefits | Working for the council | Thurrock Council
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Thurrock Council is committed to equal opportunities. As a Disability Confident Employer, disabled people will be offered an interview where they meet all essential criteria on the person specification. We serve a diverse community where people are different yet equal. Diversity underpins everything we do.
For further information about Thurrock Council please visit our website: Thurrock Council
Principal Transport Planner employer: Thurrock Council
Thurrock Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth, offering a generous benefits package including flexible working options, a robust pension scheme, and ongoing training opportunities. Located in the vibrant borough of Thurrock, just half an hour from London, employees can enjoy a dynamic work environment while making a meaningful impact on the community through innovative transport planning initiatives. Join us to be part of a supportive and inclusive culture that values diversity and aims to shape the future of our local area.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Transport Planner
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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Transport Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
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How to prepare for a job interview at Thurrock Council
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