Lead Planning Consultant

ERM; Southampton; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy, ERM, is seeking a Principal Planning Consultant to spearhead projects in decarbonisation and renewable energy. The role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies, engage in business development, and mentor junior team members while enjoying flexible working arrangements and a supportive culture.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

6% pension contribution

Private medical insurance

Performance bonuses

Volunteering opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven track record working on DCOs.
• Experience with EIA and multidisciplinary projects required.
• Scottish planning and consenting experience needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning team through various projects and deliverables.
• Prepare EIAs and consenting applications.
• Involved in business development with clients.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Business development

Collaboration

Education

Relevant Town Planning degree

Licentiate/RTPI qualification

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

Principal Planning Consultant at ERM

ERM is seeking an experienced, highly motivated, and enthusiastic Principal Planning Consultant to join and lead our market-leading planning team on a hybrid basis from any of ERM's 16 UK offices.

You will work on innovative projects in decarbonisation (hydrogen, CCUS), renewable energy (solar, onshore and offshore wind, hydrogen, and battery storage), and mining sectors, where ERM collaborates with clients to lead the low carbon energy transition. Many projects, such as our own concept and Equinor’s H2H Saltend Blue Hydrogen project, are at the cutting edge of technology.

You will work within various planning regimes (including NSIP/DCO, TCPA, s36 (Scotland), and DNS (Wales)) to lead the planning team through a range of projects and deliverables that help our clients meet their objectives safely and sustainably. Our planning team collaborates with our established EIA and Project Management teams, and you will be involved in preparing EIAs and consenting applications supported by our environmental specialists. You will also lead business development efforts with existing and new clients and contribute to the development of junior team members.

We are committed to building a sustainable future with leading organizations, supported by the ERM Foundation, operational since 1995. Take a look at our initiatives—you'll be impressed.

We offer flexible working arrangements, including remote work options, and benefits such as 25 days annual leave, public holidays, a 6% pension contribution, EV salary sacrifice scheme, performance bonuses, private medical insurance, life assurance, income protection, employee assistance programs, volunteering opportunities, travel season ticket loans, and discounts on various services. We foster a Safety First, diverse, and inclusive culture where differences are embraced and valued. With a robust career framework and over 20 technical communities of global experts, ERM provides excellent opportunities for career advancement.

About you

You will have a relevant Town Planning degree and experience in similar roles, with a proven track record working on DCOs. You should be detail-oriented, interested in planning reports, and a Licentiate/RTPI (or equivalent) qualified Planner. An understanding of EIA and multidisciplinary projects is essential. Scottish planning and consenting experience is required. Consultancy and renewables experience is preferred but not essential.