Principal Planning Officer (Majors)

London Borough of Barnet; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority is seeking a Principal Planning Officer (Major Projects) to manage a caseload of complex projects. The role involves mentoring junior staff and engaging with developers to support efficient planning decisions. Applicants should have a degree in Planning and exceptional knowledge of the Town Planning System. This position offers flexible working options and comprehensive benefits, including the Local Government Pension Scheme.

Benefits

Access to Local Government Pension Scheme

Work-life balance options

Lifestyle discounts

Payroll benefits including gym membership

Excellent training opportunities

Qualifications

• Exceptional knowledge of the Town Planning System.
• Experience of presenting complex cases to committees.
• In-depth knowledge of legislative requirements associated with planning.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects to support the Council's vision.
• Engage with developers and key bodies for quality developments.
• Support and mentor junior staff across the service.

Skills

Town Planning System knowledge

Complex case presentation

Negotiation skills

Stakeholder communication

Education

Degree in Planning or Planning related subject

Job description

Principal Planning Officer (Major Projects)

The Principal Planning Officer (Major Projects) is responsible for a caseload of complex and varied projects. They provide support and mentoring for junior staff across the service and are involved in project work across the wider Council.

Principal Planning Officer (Major Projects) act as leads on projects to support that Council's vision and to contribute to the delivery of an efficient and effective Planning service, including engagement with developers and other key bodies in the delivery of quality developments and a robust planning decisions.

Qualifications

• Degree in Planning or Planning related subject
• Exceptional knowledge of the Town Planning System.
• Demonstrable knowledge of dealing with complex major planning applications to deliver successful outcomes.
• Experience of presenting complex cases to committees.
• Experience of negotiating and drafting Planning Performance Agreements, and effectively managing their implementation to ensure delivery aligns with agreed terms and timelines.
• Competent and confident to lead negotiations with stakeholders and communicate clear advice on proposals.
• In depth knowledge of the legislative requirements associated with planning.

Benefits

• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, which provides a valuable guaranteed income in your retirement together with security for your dependents.
• Work‑life balance options may include hybrid working, flexitime, job share, home working, part‑time.
• A vast range of lifestyle discounts from major retailers, supermarkets, energy suppliers and more.
• Broad range of payroll benefits including cycle to work, eye care vouchers, travel and gym membership.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• Employee well-being training programs including confidential employee assistance.
• Barnet Council embraces all forms of flexible working (including part‑time, compressed hours, and hybrid working) and is committed to offering employees a healthy work‑life balance.

Candidates are encouraged to talk about relevant requirements and preferences at interview. We can't promise to give you exactly what you want, but we do promise not to judge you for asking.