Assistant Town Planner

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

Job summary

A respected planning consultancy in Oxford is seeking an Assistant Town Planner to support senior colleagues and work on diverse projects. Ideal candidates will have a relevant degree, excellent communication skills, and a detail-focused approach. The role offers immediate responsibilities and opportunities for professional development within a supportive environment. Hybrid working is also available for this position.

Benefits

Direct mentorship from experienced professionals

Opportunities for progression

Competitive salary and benefits

Hybrid working arrangements

Qualifications

• Recent graduate or early-career planner.
• Experience in consultancy or local authority is a plus.
• Proactive, collaborative, and eager to learn.

Responsibilities

• Support senior colleagues in delivering planning advice.
• Prepare planning statements and application submissions.
• Conduct research and site appraisals.
• Liaise with local authorities and clients.
• Assist with appeals and public consultations.

Skills

Detail-focused

Written communication

Interest in planning documentation

Understanding of UK planning system

Team collaboration

Proactive approach

Education

Relevant degree in Town Planning, Geography, Urban Studies or similar

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.

The Role

As an Assistant Town Planner, you will support senior colleagues in delivering planning advice, preparing application material, and helping manage projects from early‑stage feasibility through to determination.

Your responsibilities will typically include:

• 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

We are looking for a planner who is enthusiastic, detail‑focused, and genuinely passionate about the built environment. You should have:

• 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?

The organisation offers the advantages of a close‑knit, independent practice:

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