Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning)
Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning)

Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning)

Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead planning applications for major infrastructure projects and provide technical advice to clients.
  • Company: Join WSP, an award-winning consultancy with a collaborative culture and global reach.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to work on landmark projects.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable infrastructure while working with diverse teams.
  • Qualifications: Degree in town planning and experience in securing consents for major projects.
  • Other info: Be part of a close-knit community dedicated to positive change and career growth.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs? At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

WSP is an award-winning consultancy that employs the largest number of chartered town planners across the UK, operating within both the infrastructure and property markets. In December 2025, WSP won the RTPI’s Planning Consultancy of the Year with judges commending the Team for their excellence in uniting diverse disciplines to achieve outstanding results, praising the team’s strong community engagement. It has never been a more exciting time to join WSP’s market-leading Infrastructure Planning Team.

Our success is built on employing highly skilled consenting specialists that have experience in serving a diverse portfolio of clients in the energy, renewables, nuclear, net zero, water, rail, transportation and aviation sectors. We work at all stages of the consenting process from early feasibility, application preparation and delivery of consents through construction and on a variety of projects across sectors.

To continue to sustainably grow as a business, we are looking for an experienced Senior Consultant to join our team to support town planning and consenting inputs on major and nationally significant infrastructure projects. The successful candidates will have demonstrable experience of working within multi-disciplinary teams to secure consent and approvals for major or nationally significant infrastructure projects via the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, Planning Act 2008 and Transport and Works Act Order.

What we will be looking for you to demonstrate:

  • Lead preparation of Town & Country Planning Act applications for infrastructure projects across the UK.
  • Support and lead on aspects of consenting inputs on major infrastructure projects (DCOs, DNSs, TWAOs etc).
  • Providing sound technical advice to clients and support managing their consenting requirements, demonstrating awareness of client’s expectations and needs.
  • Working and liaising with statutory bodies and stakeholders on behalf of clients to help deliver projects.
  • Lead and engage with teams across a variety of disciplines, providing technical oversight.
  • Understands project and team roles and actively supports and contributes to achievement, building positive relationships within the team.
  • Proactively engages with developing own knowledge and skills to build ability and team’s internal knowledge base.
  • Supports work winning opportunities in line with WSP’s Growth Strategy, contributing to identifying opportunities and to proposals.
  • Awareness of project finances and demonstrates project management experience, ideally within a consultancy environment.
  • Degree level qualification in town planning (or equivalent).
  • Member of (or eligible for) the RTPI.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact.

Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning) employer: WSP USA

WSP is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, making it an ideal place for professionals in the infrastructure planning sector. With access to landmark projects and a commitment to employee growth, WSP offers a supportive environment where diverse perspectives are celebrated, ensuring that every team member can contribute meaningfully to impactful projects. Located at the heart of the UK's infrastructure landscape, employees benefit from working alongside industry leaders and gaining invaluable experience across various sectors, all while being part of a close-knit community dedicated to making a positive difference.
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Contact Detail:

WSP USA Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning)

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the infrastructure planning field on LinkedIn or at industry events. Building connections can lead to insider info about job openings and even referrals.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching WSP's recent projects and their impact. Show your enthusiasm for their work and how your skills align with their goals. Tailor your responses to highlight your experience with major infrastructure projects.

✨Tip Number 3

Don’t just apply; engage! When you submit your application through our website, follow up with a friendly email expressing your excitement about the role. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.

✨Tip Number 4

Stay updated on industry trends and regulations. Being knowledgeable about the latest in town planning and consenting processes will not only boost your confidence but also impress potential employers during interviews.

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning)

Town and Country Planning Act
Planning Act 2008
Transport and Works Act Order
Planning (Wales) Act 2015
Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act
Electricity Act
Technical Advice
Stakeholder Engagement
Multi-disciplinary Team Collaboration
Project Management
Client Relationship Management
Knowledge Development
Proposal Development
Project Financial Awareness
Degree in Town Planning or Equivalent

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Principal Planner role. Highlight your experience with the Town and Country Planning Act and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we do at WSP!

Showcase Your Teamwork Skills: Since collaboration is key in our multi-disciplinary teams, share examples of how you've successfully worked with others on major infrastructure projects. We love seeing candidates who can build positive relationships and contribute to team success.

Demonstrate Your Technical Knowledge: Be sure to include specific instances where you've provided sound technical advice or managed consenting requirements. This will show us that you understand the complexities of the role and can navigate the regulatory landscape effectively.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our amazing team there!

How to prepare for a job interview at WSP USA

✨Know Your Legislation

Familiarise yourself with the Town and Country Planning Act, Planning Act 2008, and other relevant legislation. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with these laws and how you can navigate them effectively in your role.

✨Showcase Your Project Experience

Prepare specific examples of major infrastructure projects you've worked on, especially those involving multi-disciplinary teams. Highlight your role in securing consents and approvals, and be ready to explain the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

✨Engage with Stakeholders

Demonstrate your ability to liaise with statutory bodies and stakeholders. Share instances where you've successfully managed client expectations and built positive relationships, as this is crucial for the role.

✨Emphasise Continuous Learning

WSP values curiosity and growth, so be sure to discuss how you actively seek to develop your knowledge and skills. Mention any recent training or certifications that enhance your expertise in infrastructure planning.

Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning)
WSP USA

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