Planning Enforcement Technical Officer

North Lincolnshire Council; Scunthorpe; Hybrid; GBP 26,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangements

Flexible and CPD opportunities

Professional development

Job summary

North Lincolnshire Council in Scunthorpe is recruiting a Planning Enforcement Technical Officer to lead investigations into breaches of planning control and support delivery of an enforcement service. You will manage your own caseload of non-complex cases while assisting senior officers on more complex matters.

The role blends office work, site visits and customer engagement, with around 30% field inspections across North Lincolnshire.

Qualifications

• Has Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to analyse information, maps, plans and technical documents.

Responsibilities

• Investigate complaints and alleged breaches of planning control.
• Undertake site visits and gather evidence.
• Maintain accurate case records and enforcement databases.
• Respond to public enquiries by telephone, email and in person.

Skills

Investigative skills

Communication

Organisation

Teamwork

MS Office

Education

Level 2 English & Maths

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

This role presents a great opportunity for someone looking to develop a career in planning enforcement and local government investigation work. This is a varied role with professional development opportunities and the need to provide support for Planning Enforcement Officers within the team.

The successful candidate will work on a wide range of cases, requiring them to be organised and resilient, with strong investigative and communication skills. They will enjoy working with people and making a real difference to protect and maintain the quality and character of North Lincolnshire's towns, villages and countryside.

About the role As a Planning Enforcement Technical Officer, you will be at the forefront of investigating alleged breaches of planning control and supporting the delivery of an effective planning enforcement service.

You will manage enquiries from members of the public, undertake site visits, gather evidence, investigate complaints and work with colleagues to resolve planning issues. You will be trusted to manage your own caseload of non-complex cases while supporting Planning Enforcement Officers with more complex and contentious investigations.

The role offers a combination of office-based work, customer engagement and field-based investigations, with approximately 30% of your time spent carrying out site inspections across North Lincolnshire.

Key responsibilities:

• Investigate complaints and alleged breaches of planning control.
• Undertake site visits and gather intelligence and evidence.
• Maintain accurate case records and enforcement databases.
• Respond to public enquiries by telephone, email and in person.
• Monitor compliance with planning conditions and legal agreements.
• Draft warning letters, Section 215 notices and case documentation.
• Prepare information and evidence for enforcement action and appeals.
• Work closely with colleagues, councillors, parish councils and other agencies.
• Help ensure enforcement cases are progressed efficiently and fairly.
• Commitment to delivering excellent customer service and achieving positive outcomes for local communities.

About you - We are looking for someone who:

• Has Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths.
• Can demonstrate an interest and possible experience in planning, enforcement, compliance, investigation or regulation.
• Has excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Can confidently deal with challenging or potentially confrontational situations.
• Has strong organisational skills and can effectively manage competing priorities.
• Is able to analyse information, legislation, maps, plans and technical documents.
• Works well independently and as part of a team
• Is confident using Microsoft Office and digital systems
• Can travel throughout North Lincolnshire to carry out site inspections.
• Experience in planning, enforcement, environmental regulation, compliance, investigation or a similar field would be advantageous

This post is ideal for someone looking to build a professional career in enforcement and regulation. We will support the successful candidate to undertake relevant professional development.

You would be joining a supportive and experienced team that plays a vital role in protecting the built and natural environment of North Lincolnshire.

What we offer In return:

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• A varied and rewarding workload.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing professional development (CPD).
• The opportunity to make a real difference to the local environment and communities.

Please see attached job description and employee specification which you should refer to when completing your application to demonstrate you meet the essential criteria for the role.

For an informal discussion about the vacancy, please contact: John Davies Lead Officer – Environmental Enforcement on 01724 298454

Closing Date: Monday 9th November 2026

Potential Interview Date: Monday 23rd November 2026

Candidates must be able to evidence their right to work in the UK. Please note the council does not hold a sponsor licence to sponsor people to work in the UK.