Assistant Town Planner

Penguin Recruitment; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A confidential independent planning consultancy in Oxford is seeking an Assistant Town Planner to join their growing team. This role is ideal for a motivated graduate or early-career planner to work closely with experienced professionals on diverse projects. The position provides hands-on experience, client exposure, and professional training. Candidates should possess a relevant degree and strong communication skills. This consultancy offers mentorship, competitive salary, and hybrid working options.

Benefits

Direct mentorship

Competitive salary and benefits

Hybrid working

Qualifications

• Relevant degree in Town Planning or similar.
• Some experience in a consultancy or local authority is ideal.
• Interest in preparing planning documentation.

Responsibilities

• Prepare planning statements and application submissions.
• Conduct research and site appraisals.
• Liaise with local authorities and clients.

Skills

Strong written communication skills

Understanding of the UK planning system

Proactive, collaborative approach

Education

Degree in Town Planning, Geography, Urban Studies

Job description

Assistant Town Planner - Oxford
Confidential Independent Planning Consultancy
External Recruitment Campaign

A respected, design‑conscious independent planning consultancy – kept confidential at this stage – is seeking an Assistant Town Planner to join their growing Oxford team. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated graduate or early‑career planner to work closely with experienced professionals on a wide variety of projects across the region.

The firm is known for its high‑quality work, personable culture, and strong reputation for delivering intelligent planning solutions in sectors including residential, rural, heritage, mixed‑use, and commercial development.

Role and Responsibilities

• Preparing planning statements, supporting documents, and application submissions
• Conducting research and site appraisals to assess development potential
• Assisting with policy review, planning history checks, and evidence gathering
• Liaising with local authorities, clients, and consultants
• Supporting senior staff with appeals, public consultations, and reporting
• Helping to maintain project files and ensuring smooth delivery of deadlines

The role provides hands‑on experience, client exposure, and ongoing professional training.

About You

• A relevant degree in Town Planning, Geography, Urban Studies, or similar
• Ideally some experience in a consultancy or local authority (placement year or 6‑12 months+)
• Strong written communication skills and an interest in preparing planning documentation
• A good understanding of the UK planning system and current policy
• Confidence working both independently and as part of a small team
• A proactive, collaborative approach and willingness to learn
• Candidates working toward, or intending to work toward, RTPI accreditation are particularly encouraged

Why Join This Consultancy

• Direct mentorship from highly experienced planning professionals
• Early responsibility and involvement in diverse project work
• A supportive, friendly culture with genuine opportunities for progression
• Varied work across rural, urban, and heritage contexts
• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Hybrid working and a well‑located Oxford office

This a role where your development is taken seriously and your contribution is genuinely valued