Career Grade Planning Policy Officer

Uttlesford District Council; Uttlesford; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Uttlesford is looking for a Graduate Planner to join their Local Plans Team. The role entails contributing to planning policy preparation, supporting local planning groups, and developing design guidance. Ideal for a motivated graduate keen to develop their career in a supportive environment, with benefits including generous annual leave and professional development support.

Benefits

Generous annual leave

Leisure centre discounts

Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme

Discounts from online retailers

Qualifications

• Motivated and enthusiastic graduate seeking a career in planning policy.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and monitor planning policy.
• Support neighbourhood planning groups.
• Develop design guidance.

Skills

Strong organisational and time management skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Understanding of planning policy and the planning system

Ability to analyse data and present information clearly

Job description

Uttlesford is a unique district, with Saffron Walden voted the country’s “Best Place to Live 2025”. It is also home to the expanding London Stansted Airport, and picture-postcard market towns and villages. Our Planning Service has experienced a significant transformation over the past two years. Our Development Management and Building Control Teams are thriving, high-performing, and fully staffed. We have just taken our local plan through examination and expect to adopt it in early 2026. This is your chance to contribute to the continued success of the Planning Service, our emerging policy framework, and the future of the district itself.

Due to an internal promotion, an exciting opportunity has arisen for a Graduate Planner to join our high-performing Local Plans Team. This is an ideal role for a motivated and enthusiastic graduate looking to begin or build their career in planning policy within a supportive and forward-thinking local authority.

We are looking for someone with:

• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• A good understanding of planning policy and the planning system
• The ability to analyse data and present information clearly, both in writing and in person

You will contribute to a wide range of policy-related work, including the preparation and monitoring of planning policy, supporting neighbourhood planning groups, and developing design guidance. This is a varied role that offers real responsibility and the opportunity to develop professionally while helping shape the future of the district. You will receive ongoing professional development and support for RTPI accreditation.

Uttlesford District Council is a family friendly Council. We encourage and support our employees to have a healthy work life balance as well as offering a range of benefits including generous annual leave, plus bank holidays (pro-rata), leisure centre discounts, membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme and an online platform offering discounts from online retailers.

For an informal discussion please contact Dean Hermitage, Strategic Director of Planning on 01799 510601

To find out more and apply please visit https://www.uttlesford.gov.uk/jobs-careers

Closing date for completed applications is Sunday 28 September 2025.

It is intended that interviews will be held week commencing 13 October 2025.

CVs will not be accepted.

Uttlesford District Council is an inclusive employer, and we welcome applications from all. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and a Fostering Friendly Employer and proud to support our Care Leavers and the Armed Forces Covenant. Anyone disclosing a disability or is a Care leaver or is a member of the Armed Forces community (Veteran/Service leaver, Reserve Forces, or their Spouses/Partners or Cadet Force Adult Volunteer) whose application meets the essential criteria for the post will be guaranteed an interview.