Principal Transport Planner

Carrington West; Manchester; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A transport planning consultancy in Manchester is seeking a Principal Transport Planner to lead complex projects and mentor junior staff. You will be responsible for managing client relationships and delivering technical outputs while ensuring project objectives are met. The ideal candidate will have expertise in transport modelling tools and a deep understanding of UK planning processes. This role offers an excellent opportunity to shape project development and support the company's growth.

Qualifications

• Proven experience delivering transport planning projects across sectors.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure.
• In-depth understanding of UK transport policy, legislation, and planning processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation of complex transport appraisals and assessments.
• Manage multiple projects ensuring deadlines and quality standards.
• Engage with local authorities and community groups.

Skills

Leadership and communication skills

Organisational and time management skills

High attention to detail

Problem-solving mindset

Education

Professional accreditation (e.g. CTPP, TPP, MCIHT)

Tools

TRICS

LINSIG

Junctions 11

GIS

Job description

Overview

Principal Transport Planner

As a Principal Transport Planner, you will play a key leadership role in delivering complex transport planning projects while supporting the strategic development of the business. You will provide high-level technical expertise, oversee project teams, and act as a trusted advisor to clients. This position bridges the gap between Senior and Associate level, giving you greater responsibility for project management, client relationships, and team leadership while maintaining strong hands-on involvement in technical delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of complex access appraisals, Transport Statements, Transport Assessments, Travel Plans and transport input to ES Chapters to support planning applications for a variety of development projects.
• Production of strategic transport reports.
• Manage the day-to-day delivery of multiple projects, ensuring deadlines, budgets, and quality standards are met.
• Undertake and review transport modelling and data analysis using specialist tools (e.g. TRICS, LINSIG, Junctions 11, and GIS).
• Conduct and oversee site visits to assess transport infrastructure, accessibility, and constraints/opportunities.
• Act as a primary contact for clients, managing relationships and ensuring repeat business through excellent service.
• Become a key point of contact for clients to the extent that they request fee proposals for new projects;
• Mentor and supervise Senior Transport Planners, Transport Planners, Assistant Transport Planner and Graduates, providing technical and professional guidance.
• Review and approve technical outputs to ensure quality, clarity, and compliance with policy and best practice.
• Support Associates and Associate Directors with business development, including contributing to proposals, fee bids, and presentations.
• Engage with key stakeholders, including local authorities, developers, and community groups.
• Keep up to date with industry developments, policy changes, and emerging technologies in the transport sector.
• Actively engage in opportunities for networking, targeting specific sectors and companies.

Reporting Structure

You will report to an Associate/Associate Director and will have line management responsibility for Senior Transport Planners, Transport Planners, Assistant Transport Planner and Graduates. You will work closely with other senior team members to deliver projects and support business growth.

Core Competencies

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Excellent organisational and time management abilities.
• Professional integrity, reliability, and accountability.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure.
• Commitment to collaboration, inclusivity, and teamwork.
• Positive approach to learning and sharing knowledge.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Adaptability and problem-solving mindset.

Specialist Competencies

• Proven experience delivering transport planning projects across sectors.
• High-level technical skills in transport modelling, assessment, and strategy development.
• Proficient in relevant software (TRICS, LINSIG, Junctions 11, TEMPro, GIS).
• Strong report writing and technical reviewing skills.
• Ability to lead client discussions and provide clear, evidence-based recommendations.
• Experience in managing budgets, resources, and project risks.
• In-depth understanding of UK transport policy, legislation, and planning processes.
• Working towards or holding a professional accreditation (e.g. CTPP, TPP, MCIHT, or chartership with CIHT/TPS)