Principal Planning Officer
Job Description
Job Title: Principal Planning Officer
Job Ref: PPO2907
Location: Hertford / Remote Working
Function: Planning
Salary: £42,107 – £51,201 including local weighting, +£3,500 Market Forces Supplement (MFS)**
Status: Full Time
Type: Permanent
Hours: 37 hours per week
Closing Date: 15th September 2024 (Midnight)
Interview Date: Week Commencing 30th September 2024
About the Role
Are you a senior planning professional looking for a new challenge? Join us in a progressive public sector environment, where you will contribute to one of the largest development projects in the UK, making a tangible difference to East Hertfordshire residents.
We are seeking Principal Planning Officers to support significant developments, including the Garden Town project at the Gilston Area, as well as major projects across East Hertfordshire. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced planning professional to help shape the district’s future, ensuring sustainability, heritage protection, and environmental conservation.
Key Responsibilities
As a Principal Planning Officer, you will play a leading role in:
- Development Management: Managing a caseload of complex planning applications, including pre-application submissions and strategic developments.
- Master Planning: Contributing to master-planning and overseeing detailed approval applications.
- Decision Making: Exercising delegated powers to determine applications and ensure compliance with planning regulations.
- Project Leadership: Taking a project-managed approach, leading and mentoring junior colleagues.
- Public Engagement: Presenting casework at decision-making committees and other public meetings.
- Legal & Policy Compliance: Staying updated on case laws, national/local policies, and community needs.
- Customer Service: Providing prompt and professional responses to stakeholders.
- Site Inspections: Visiting land and development sites within and beyond the district.
About You
To be considered for this role, you must have:
- Experience in handling major development proposals.
- Strong Knowledge of the planning legal obligation process.
- Project Management Skills to oversee planning applications effectively.
- Public Speaking Ability to communicate planning matters at committees and public forums.
- Mentorship Experience in guiding and supporting junior team members.
- Educational Qualifications: A degree and/or postgraduate qualification in Town and Country Planning (or equivalent).
- Valid Driving Licence and access to your vehicle, with the ability to travel across the district at short notice.
Team Placement Options
We have opportunities available in two key teams:
- Gilston Planning Team – Focused on managing the Gilston Area allocation, overseeing the development of 10,000 homes and extensive community infrastructure.
- Strategic Delivery Team – Responsible for strategic and major development projects outlined in the District Plan.
Please indicate your team preference in your application.
Additional Information
- Market Forces Supplement (MFS): The supplement is reviewed annually in line with the council’s pay policy.
- Equal Opportunity Employer: We value diversity and are committed to providing equal employment opportunities.
- Blended/Home Working Available: Flexible work arrangements support work-life balance.
For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact:
- Martin Plummer – Service Manager Development Management and Enforcement (01992 532080)
- Jenny Pierce – Gilston Area Team Leader (01992 531624)
How to Apply
If you are excited about shaping the future of East Hertfordshire, apply today! Click the application button to submit your details before 15th September 2024 (Midnight).
This vacancy is being advertised by Webrecruit. The services advertised by Webrecruit are those of an Employment Agency.
