Principal Planner

JR United Kingdom; Portsmouth; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy in the power sector is seeking an experienced Principal Planner to lead planning processes for large-scale green energy infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate will have over 7 years of experience in infrastructure planning, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in relevant fields, and familiarity with Development Consent Orders. Join a supportive team that values work-life balance and offers career development opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Professional development opportunities

Work-life balance

Qualifications

• At least 7 years’ postgraduate experience in infrastructure/development planning.
• Experience with Development Consent Orders (DCOs).
• UK driving license or acceptable alternative for attending meetings.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning and consenting processes for renewable energy projects.
• Mentor and guide junior planners.
• Ensure regulatory compliance in planning strategies.

Skills

Planning and consenting strategies

Mentoring

Collaboration with project management

Education

Bachelors in Geography, Planning, Environmental Sciences

Masters (desired)

Job description

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Client:

Tempest Jones Recruitment

Location:

Portsmouth, Hampshire, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

4

Posted:

22.08.2025

Expiry Date:

06.10.2025

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Job Description:

UK (remote or hybrid working)

Competitive salary + benefit package

Our client is a leading consultancy providing professional planning and engineering services to the power sector. They support the UK’s transition to net zero by planning, designing, and delivering major power projects that connect renewable energy sources to towns and cities.

They specialise in the planning, design, and survey of Overhead Lines, Underground Cables, and Substation Systems from LV to EHV, both in the UK and internationally, playing a critical role in major power infrastructure projects and large-scale renewable developments.

The role

We are seeking an experienced Principal Planner to lead the planning and consenting processes for major projects, including large-scale green energy infrastructure.

This role suits a proactive individual with experience in planning and delivering Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs), especially those requiring Development Consent Orders (DCOs) or similar approvals. Experience with linear infrastructure projects is preferred, but candidates with local planning application experience and Section 37 (S.37) consent processes are also welcome.

• Oversee and deliver planning and consenting strategies for renewable energy projects, ensuring regulatory compliance
• Collaborate with the Project Manager on planning activities to support project success
• Mentor and guide junior planners and team members, fostering a high-performing team
• Implement initiatives from the Operating Board to improve planning processes and business operations

This role offers the chance to work on high-profile energy projects contributing to the UK's Net Zero goals, with opportunities for career growth and professional development.

The candidate

We seek an ambitious individual passionate about green energy.

• Masters (desired) or Bachelors (essential) in Geography, Planning, Environmental Sciences, or related fields
• Membership or progress towards membership in a relevant Professional Institution is desirable
• UK driving license (or acceptable alternative) for attending client meetings
• At least 7 years’ postgraduate experience in infrastructure/development planning, including transmission or distribution schemes
• Experience submitting Development Consent Orders (DCOs)

This is a great opportunity to join a well-established, high-performing team that values work-life balance. Senior team members have been with the company over 10 years on average. The team has recently expanded to meet increasing client demand.

The successful candidate will work at the UK’s leading multidisciplinary utility sector consultancy, enjoying autonomy, respect, and flexibility. As a smaller organization, individuals are recognized and valued.

If interested, apply now by submitting your CV or contact David McGovern at Tempest Jones via [emailprotected].