Principal Officer - Implementation

Adecco; Wealden; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is looking for a Principal Officer - Implementation to join their Transport Development Planning Team in East Sussex. The role involves overseeing highway works, managing projects, and ensuring compliance with legislation. Candidates should have a strong background in Planning, Transport Planning, or Civil Engineering, along with excellent problem-solving and communication skills. The position offers a competitive hourly rate and the chance to make a significant impact on local transport infrastructure improvements.

Qualifications

• Background in Planning, Transport Planning, Civil Engineering, Geography, or GIS.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead on approving designs and overseeing construction of highway works.
• Manage complex projects and competing deadlines, providing expert advice.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of relevant legislation and local policy.

Skills

Planning

Transport Planning

Civil Engineering

Problem-solving

Communication

Data Analysis

Budget Management

Education

Degree in relevant field (Planning, Transport Planning, Civil Engineering, Geography, or GIS)

Tools

Microsoft 365

Job description

Principal Officer - Implementation

Department: Communities, Economy and Transport

Location: East Sussex County Council

Salary: £22.96 per hour (PAYE) | £29.90 per hour (Umbrella)

Contract: Temporary to Permanent

Reports to: Assistant Manager - Implementation, Transport Development Planning

Site Based: 80%

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled Principal Officer - Implementation to join our Transport Development Planning Team (TDP) within the Planning Service of the Communities, Economy and Transport department at ESCC.

This role plays a pivotal part in delivering an integrated transport development planning service. You will lead on the delivery of third‑party highway schemes, ensuring they are designed and implemented to the highest standards under Sections 38, 171, and 278 of the Highways Act.

You will work closely with developers, contractors, planning authorities, emergency services, and local councils to ensure timely delivery of highway improvements that meet safety, quality, and sustainability standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on approving designs and overseeing construction of highway works and improvements.
• Manage complex projects and competing deadlines, providing expert advice on policy, legal, and regulatory issues.
• Act as a technical mentor and specialist adviser within the team.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of relevant legislation and local policy.
• Respond to complaints and appeals, ensuring compliance with procedures.
• Monitor budgets and ensure effective use of resources.
• Manage small to medium contracts, including KPIs and compliance.
• Deputise for the line manager and attend external meetings as required.
• Drive service improvements and implement changes in response to legislation and best practice.
• Build and maintain professional networks with external organisations and stakeholders.

About You

• Background in Planning, Transport Planning, Civil Engineering, Geography, or GIS.
• Strong ability to plan and organise workloads for self and others.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and ability to work under pressure.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with emotional intelligence.
• Coaching and mentoring experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and data analysis.
• Knowledge of budget management principles.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Understanding of Data Protection regulations and confidentiality requirements.
• A drive for continuous professional development.

Priorities

• Net Zero Emissions Targets – reducing environmental impact.
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion – fostering an inclusive workplace.
• Making the Best of Our Resources – ensuring value for public money.

Interested? Apply today to join a fast‑paced, collaborative team delivering vital transport infrastructure improvements across East Sussex.

Adecco acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and an employment business for the supply of temporary workers. The Adecco Group UK & Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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