At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead town planning for major infrastructure projects and provide technical advice to clients.
- Company: Join WSP, an award-winning consultancy with a global impact.
- Benefits: Collaborative culture, career growth, and the chance to shape a unique future.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to innovative solutions.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on communities while working on landmark projects.
- Qualifications: Degree in town planning and RTPI membership required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 € 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. With notable contract and framework awards from National Grid as part of the Great Grid Partnership as well as awards from many other clients, we have a great foundation for growth in 2026.
Our key clients include National Grid as part of the Great Grid Partnership, National Gas as part of Project Union, Nuclear Waste Services, EET Fuels, Eni UK, SSE, Scottish Power Renewables, Severn Trent Water, Southern Water, United Utilities, Yorkshire Water, and many more.
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. We are also interested to hear from people that have experience in securing consents for major projects by means of the Planning (Wales) Act 2015, Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act, or the Electricity Act.
What we will be looking for you to demonstrate…
- Managing, or leading aspects of, the town planning or consenting inputs on major infrastructure projects (DCOs, DNSs, TWAOs etc)
- Providing technical advice to clients and managing their consenting requirements demonstrating awareness of client’s expectations and needs.
- Co-ordinating the preparation and submission of consent applications which may include applications under the Town and Country Planning Acts, the Planning Act 2008 or other regimes.
- Supporting negotiations with statutory bodies and stakeholders on behalf of clients.
- Lead engagement with teams across a variety of disciplines, providing technical oversight.
- Actively supports and contributes to achievement, building positive relationships within project and discipline teams.
- Proactively develops own knowledge and skills to build ability and team’s internal knowledge base.
- Solid understanding of project finances and project management experience, ideally within a consultancy environment.
- Line management / mentoring colleagues by supporting them in their work project delivery roles.
- Degree level qualification in town planning (or equivalent).
- Member of 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. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.
With us, you can. Apply today.
Associate Town Planner (Infrastructure Planning) in Manchester employer: WSP
WSP is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, allowing you to work on landmark infrastructure projects while connecting with industry leaders. With a strong commitment to employee growth, WSP offers numerous opportunities for professional development and mentorship within a supportive community. Located at the forefront of the planning consultancy sector, WSP not only values diverse perspectives but also empowers its employees to make a meaningful impact in their careers and communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Town Planner (Infrastructure Planning) in Manchester
✨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 job opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching WSP and their recent projects. Show your enthusiasm for their work and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their needs in town planning and consenting.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be clear about what you bring to the table, especially your experience with major infrastructure projects. Confidence is key when you're trying to land that dream role.
✨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 our team at WSP.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Town Planner (Infrastructure Planning) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Associate Town Planner role. Highlight your relevant experience in infrastructure planning and any specific projects you've worked on that align with WSP's focus areas.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills can contribute to WSP’s success. Mention your experience with the Town and Country Planning Act or any other relevant legislation, and how you’ve successfully navigated consent processes in the past.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. WSP values diverse perspectives, so share your unique insights and experiences that make you a great fit for their team. We want to see the real you!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. This ensures your application gets to the right people and shows your enthusiasm for joining WSP’s Infrastructure Planning Team.
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, Planning Act 2008, and other relevant legislation. Be prepared to discuss how these laws apply to major infrastructure projects and demonstrate your understanding of the consenting process.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work where you successfully managed or led town planning inputs on significant projects. Highlight your role in securing consents and how you navigated challenges, as this will show your practical experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Discuss your experience in engaging with statutory bodies and stakeholders. Share examples of how you've built positive relationships and negotiated effectively on behalf of clients, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Be ready to talk about your experience working within multi-disciplinary teams. Emphasise how you’ve contributed to team success and supported colleagues, showcasing your ability to collaborate and lead in a consultancy environment.
