Principal / Associate Spatial Planner

AtkinsRéalis; Greater Manchester; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading multi-disciplinary consultancy in the UK is seeking a Principal / Associate Spatial Planner to enhance their Planning team. The role involves strategic planning and policy development for major infrastructure projects. Candidates should have a relevant degree and at least 10 years of experience in managing multi-disciplinary projects with a strong understanding of UK planning policy. The role offers a supportive culture with flexible working conditions and opportunities for career growth.

Benefits

Supportive culture

Diversity and inclusion

Flexible working

Career development

Qualifications

• Chartered membership of the RTPI is essential.
• Minimum 10 years of experience managing multi-disciplinary projects.
• Deep understanding of UK planning policy and development law.

Responsibilities

• Strategic planning and policy development.
• Client engagement and stakeholder consultation.
• Manage budgets and deliver projects on time.

Skills

Stakeholder engagement

Business development

Team leadership

Financial management

Communication skills

Education

Relevant degree in Town Planning

Job description

Job Overview

AtkinsRéalis is a leading multi‑disciplinary consultancy. We are looking to strengthen our Planning team with a Principal / Associate Spatial Planner. The team operates across the UK, supporting major infrastructure and development projects such as HS2, Network Rail, Transport for London and local authorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic planning and policy development: local plans, regional plans, infrastructure delivery studies and funding bids.
• Business development: identification of new opportunities, tender responses and client networking.
• Project leadership: manage multidisciplinary inputs, coordinate across planning, transport, engineering and environmental teams.
• Client engagement: communication, reporting, stakeholder consultation and relationship management.
• Financial oversight: manage budgets and deliver projects on time and on budget.
• Mentoring: provide guidance to junior staff and contribute to the national capability of the team.

Qualifications & Experience

• Relevant degree in Town Planning and Chartered membership of the RTPI.
• Minimum 10 years of experience managing multi‑disciplinary projects and business development.
• Deep understanding of UK planning policy, land use strategy, and development law.
• Experience in strategic and spatial planning for the North of England, including the North West and Yorkshire.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and collaborative skills across local, regional and national authorities.
• Commercial awareness, budget management and strong communication capabilities.

Benefit to Applicantsh3>

AtkinsRéalis offers a supportive culture, diversity and inclusion, flexible working, and career development across a global organisation. We value innovation, engineering excellence and a commitment to bettering people and the planet.

Security Clearance

This role may require UK security clearance and will be discussed during the interview process. Please do not include details of any current or previous clearance in your application.

Diversity and Inclusion

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. We provide inclusive policies, flexible working arrangements and employee networks to support diversity.