Why join us
We believe in putting our people first – we work hard every day to make sure everyone can achieve a healthy and enjoyable work-life-balance. That is why we have a very flexible hours system.
We are seen as being customer focused, approachable and business-like. We are honest and open and are renowned for providing high quality cost-effective service.
About the role
Are you a dynamic and enthusiastic town planner with experience in local plan-making? Are you committed to place-making and high-quality customer service? South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils are looking for an ambitious senior planning officer. If you are ready for a new challenge with opportunities to develop professionally, this could be the role for you.
The successful applicant for this role will join the councils at an important time to help deliver the work of the policy team, working with a team of over 20 professionals.
You will expect to take responsibility for specific topics and evidence base development.
Essential criteria for the role
- a Degree or Diploma in Town Planning, or a related discipline, or equivalent level of experience with full/licentiate membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute
- minimum of 5 years’ experience of working in a planning office including experience of planning policy work
- good, accurate written and oral communication skills and experience in giving clear, succinct and well argued presentations - formally and informally
- an excellent knowledge of Planning Legislation and Planning Policy with an ability to interpret policy and law
- good IT experience in Windows environment and good keyboard skills
- experience of working within a customer focused environment dealing with the public
Key responsibilities for the role
- Oversee, project manage and assist in the production of the local plan, carrying out research, attend project meetings with internal and external stakeholders, and prepare and present evidence supporting the Council’s case at local plan Examination
- Prepare supplementary planning documents and papers and reports, carry out consultations, including preparing consultation documents for officers and Members
- Provide professional advice and training on planning policy and development matters to the public, Members and other professionals including supporting development management colleagues in interpreting policy for planning applications
- Assist in the supervision of the work of junior planning or technical officers and in other aspects of the team’s work including input into county and other cross-authority planning arrangements, management of the National Landscapes, nature conservation and transportation matters
- Assist in monitoring planning policies
A full list of the duties this role provides, as well as the benefits we offer, can be found within the job description.
Please note that we do not hold a sponsor licence and are unable to support visa applications. To be considered for this role, you must already have the legal right to work in the UK. If you are unsure about your eligibility, please refer to the UK Government’s guidance before applying.
Thank you for taking the time to read our advert, we look forward to receiving your application.