Planning Officer

Worcester BID; West Midlands Combined Authority; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government council is seeking a motivated planning officer to join its Development Management team. The successful candidate will assess planning applications, ensuring high-quality developments in Worcester. A degree in Town Planning or a related field is essential, alongside strong communication skills. This role offers a chance to impact urban growth positively in a vibrant community. The closing date for applications is September 28, 2025.

Qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Interest in planning and the built environment.

Responsibilities

• Assessing and reporting on planning applications.
• Checking applications for validation.
• Taking part in pre-application discussions.
• Managing conditions and post-decision matters.
• Supporting appeals in writing and hearings.
• Helping with planning enforcement when needed.

Skills

Clear communication

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Understanding urban design

Focus on outcomes

Education

Degree in Town Planning, Geography or related subject

Job description

Overview

Shape your future and the future of Worcester. Now is a great time to join Worcester City Council's Development Management Team. We are moving forward with bold plans to create a more vibrant, sustainable and inclusive city. We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic planner to help make it happen.

Worcester is full of potential. We are delivering growth that benefits everyone, with plans for new homes, jobs, infrastructure and green spaces. At the same time, we are protecting the environment and tackling the challenges of climate change. Whether you are starting your career or ready to take the next step, this is your chance to make a real impact. You will help shape high-quality development in a compact, fast-paced urban area. You will be part of a friendly and forward-thinking team that values fresh ideas and collaboration. From day one, you will get practical experience, mentoring, and support for your professional development.

Worcester isn’t just a great place to work, it’s also a great place to live. It offers award-winning parks, a thriving food and retail scene, top culture and sport, strong transport links, and a real sense of community. All in a compact, historic city with a modern outlook.

The Role

We are looking for a well-organised and positive planning officer to join our Development Management team. You will manage a varied caseload, including householders, minor developments and other applications. You will help ensure development in the city is high-quality and well-designed.

Your Work Will Include

• Assessing and reporting on planning applications
• Checking applications for validation
• Taking part in pre-application discussions
• Managing conditions and post-decision matters
• Supporting appeals (written reps and hearings)
• Helping with planning enforcement when needed

This is a great opportunity to build skills in case management, negotiation, design appraisal and enforcement, with support from an experienced and helpful team.

We’re Looking For Someone Who

• Communicates clearly in writing and in person
• Is organised and pays attention to detail
• Works well both independently and in a team
• Understands the value of good design in urban areas
• Cares about creating better outcomes for people, places and the environment

Essential

What we’re looking for

• Degree (or equivalent) in Town Planning, Geography or a related subject
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Interest in planning and the built environment

Desirable

• Experience in a planning or development-related role (e.g. work placement, internship, graduate position or previous job)
• Understanding of how development management works in local government

If you’re ready to grow your career and help shape a fairer, greener and more dynamic Worcester, we’d love to hear from you.

We welcome applications from all sections of the community. We would like to help you shine during this process. If you need any assistance with applying please contact the Recruitment team. We can assist with alternative formats for your application or offer a MS Teams interview, for example.

For Further Information About The Role, Please Contact

Paul Round, Service Manager - Development Management.

Closing Date: 28 September 2025

Interview date: TBC