Planning Validation Assistant

Sevenoaks District Council; Sevenoaks; Hybrid; GBP 19,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Enhanced annual leave of 25 days

Additional leave after 5 years

Employee benefits including discounts

Free parking

Social activity opportunities

BUPA Employee Assistance Programme

Job summary

A local government authority in Sevenoaks is seeking a Validation Assistant to support the Planning department by ensuring smooth processing of applications. The role involves liaising with customers to provide advice, requiring strong attention to detail and an organised approach. Full training will be provided, and the position operates on a hybrid working model. Benefits include enhanced annual leave, employee discounts, and access to a wellbeing support service.

Qualifications

• Experience in a customer-facing role is ideal.
• Knowledge of Planning services is desirable, but training will be given.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the smooth processing of Planning applications.
• Liaise with customers providing advice and guidance.
• Ensure smooth processing of all Planning applications and follow correct procedures.

Skills

Customer-facing experience

Attention to detail

Organised approach

Job description

Our Validation team provides support to the wider Planning department by registering and assessing applications.

You’ll ensure that the processing of all applications for Planning runs smoothly, and you’ll be responsible for liaising with customers about their applications, providing advice and guidance, so experience in a customer-facing role is ideal.

You’ll bring your excellent attention to detail and an organised approach to ensure that applications are accurate and follow the correct procedures.

Knowledge of Planning services is desirable; however, full training will be given.

This role will be based at our Council Offices, Argyle Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1HG. We currently operate a hybrid working model for the majority of our roles, with your working time split between the office (2 days) and home working (3 days).

What’s in it for you?

You’ll join a dynamic and forward-thinking team delivering services that matter. Every day is different, and the impact you’ll have on people’s quality of life is immediate and rewarding.

We are one of the few local government authorities to hold Platinum Investors in People accreditation – our commitment to supporting and developing you is genuine and ongoing.

Other benefits include:

• Enhanced annual leave of 25 days (excluding bank holidays)
• Additional leave after 5 years of service
• Opportunities to join in with social activities
• Free parking
• Employee benefits including discounts on shopping, travel, days out and more
• Tusker car salary sacrifice scheme and discounts with your MOT
• Access to BUPA Employee Assistance Programme, a free, 24/7, confidential counselling and wellbeing support service

Previous applicants need not apply.

Do you want to know more about the role? For further details on the role, please contact Maria Matthews, Validation Assistant Team Leader, on 01732 227234.

Do you want to ensure you have the best chance of being shortlisted? Read the Job Description and Personal Specification attached to the role and ensure that your supporting statement explains how you meet the essential requirements as your application will be judged against these criteria.

Closing date:

Sunday, 4th January 2026

Interviews:

Wednesday 14th January 2026 and Friday 16th January 2026