Associate Town Planner in London)

Penguin Recruitment; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy firm in London is seeking an Associate Town Planner to lead planning applications and projects. The ideal candidate will have an RTPI-accredited degree and at least two years of experience. This role offers a comprehensive benefits package including private medical insurance, hybrid working, and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Private medical insurance

Enhanced annual leave

Company bonus scheme

Professional membership fees covered

Clear career progression framework

Qualifications

• A minimum of two years' post-qualification experience.
• Experience in the planning sector (public or private).

Responsibilities

• Preparing and submitting planning applications.
• Managing medium-scale projects or multiple smaller complex projects.
• Representing the business as an ambassador with internal and external stakeholders.

Skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Strong client-facing and negotiation skills

High-quality report writing and project management capabilities

Advanced understanding of the UK planning process

Education

RTPI-accredited degree or master's

Chartered RTPI status or working towards it

Job description

Job Title: Associate Town Planner

Location: London

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting an independent, forward-thinking multi-disciplinary consultancy delivering outstanding planning, design and environmental services across the UK. Their work is underpinned by deep regional knowledge, service-specific expertise, and strong, long-standing client relationships.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a renowned consultancy that shapes places for the better, creates social and environmental value, and provides a vibrant workplace full of opportunity. There is a clear pathway to Associate Director

The Role - Associate Planner

As an Associate Planner, you will take a leadership role across planning applications, projects, and team development. Working closely with the Regional Director and Associate Directors, you will help strengthen the team's core capabilities while continuing to grow your own technical, commercial, and mentoring skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Preparing and submitting planning applications
• Producing written Local Plan representations
• Undertaking site inspections and assessing the merits of proposals
• Advising architects/engineers on drawings and planning submission requirements
• Submitting and leading planning appeals, including written reps and hearings
• Managing a diverse mix of planning submissions and appeals
• Preparing fee proposals, undertaking policy research and liaising with clients
• Leading on project delivery, technical direction, fee control and senior client engagement
• Managing medium-scale projects or multiple smaller complex projects
• Negotiating optimal outcomes while being commercially and contractually aware
• Generating workload through strong market understanding and proposal input
• Developing innovative solutions and contributing to successful project outcomes
• Day-to-day management of project teams and supporting the wellbeing of colleagues
• Contributing to CPD, mentoring others and enhancing team performance
• Representing the business as an ambassador with internal and external stakeholders
• Building strong networks and expanding industry relationships
• Presenting clearly and confidently to varied audiences
• Managing section/project budgets including WIP

About You - Associate Planner Profile

The ideal Associate Planner will have:

• An RTPI-accredited degree or master's
• Chartered RTPI status or be working towards it
• A minimum of two years' post-qualification experience
• Experience in the planning sector (public or private)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong client-facing and negotiation skills
• High-quality report writing and project management capabilities
• Advanced understanding of the UK planning process

Benefits Package

This opportunity offers a comprehensive and rewarding benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, growth, and future:

Looking After Your Health

• Private medical insurance (Vitality)
• BUPA Medical Cash Plan
• Discounted gym memberships
• Employee Assistance Programme

Improving Your Day-to-Day

• Enhanced annual leave
• Loyalty leave accrual
• Hybrid working
• Discounts on major retailers and services (Amazon Prime, Apple, Itsu, supermarkets & more)

Continuous Reward

• Company bonus scheme
• Defined promotion windows
• Team celebration events and socials

Protecting the Future

• Enhanced company pension
• Death in service cover

Supporting Your Progression

• Professional membership fees covered
• Access to E-learning
• Protected CPD time
• Clear career progression framework

Interested?