Town Planner

Penguin Recruitment; Worthing; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Chartered Town Planning practice in Worthing is seeking a Town Planner to join their growing team. The role involves managing planning applications, conducting research, and liaising with authorities. Ideal candidates will have a degree in a relevant discipline and experience in planning. The practice promotes a collaborative culture and offers numerous benefits, including CPD opportunities and strong support for professional development. This is a fantastic opportunity for an aspiring planner to grow in a forward-thinking environment.

Benefits

Comprehensive CPD programmes

Mentor programme

Regular site visits

European study trips

Enhanced parental leave

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
• Previous workplace experience within planning or a related environment.
• Strong communication skills with clients and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, submit, and manage planning applications.
• Conduct planning research and provide professional advice.
• Draft planning statements and community engagement materials.

Skills

Report writing skills

Effective communication

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Proactive approach

Education

Degree in relevant discipline

RTPI membership (not essential)

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Town Planner
Location: Sussex

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading Chartered Town Planning practice.

We are seeking a Town Planner to join a growing Sussex studio, helping to deliver high-quality town planning services across both public and private sector projects. The work spans a diverse range of schemes, from major regeneration projects to complex infrastructure developments.

About the Practice

This is a Chartered Town Planning practice providing professional planning advice and project delivery that maximises development potential. The team works across a broad portfolio of projects and is known for its collaborative approach, technical expertise, and commitment to excellence.

The Role

As a Planner, you will play an integral role within a growing planning team, supporting projects from concept through to completion. You will assist with day-to-day planning tasks while also contributing to larger, multi-disciplinary projects.

This role offers the opportunity to work directly with clients, local authorities, and consultants, with excellent scope to develop your planning skills within a supportive and collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Preparing, submitting, and managing planning applications, appeals, and associated consents.
• Undertaking planning research and policy reviews, providing clear and professional advice.
• Drafting planning statements, appraisals, appeal documents, and community engagement materials.
• Assisting with the coordination of multi-disciplinary project teams.
• Liaising with local authorities and statutory bodies.
• Supporting public consultation and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Assisting with client relationship management and contributing to business development initiatives.
• Supporting the ongoing development of the planning team and sharing knowledge with colleagues.

About You

We are looking for an enthusiastic and capable planner who can confidently manage day-to-day tasks and contribute positively to a team environment. You will be proactive, well-organised, and able to communicate effectively with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
• Ideally working towards or holding RTPI membership (not essential).
• Previous workplace experience within planning or a related environment.
• Strong report writing skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Good verbal communication skills.
• Proactive, adaptable, and collaborative approach.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.

Culture & Benefits

This practice promotes a collaborative working culture with a strong focus on work-life balance, mutual respect, and equal opportunities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive internal and external CPD programmes
• Mentor programme and regular organised site visits
• European study trips and regular social events
• Enhanced parental leave, Employee Assistance Programme, eye care supplement, and free fruit
• Active involvement in networking and charitable initiatives
• Strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in the workplace

If you're an aspiring planner looking to build your career within a supportive and forward-thinking consultancy, this is an excellent opportunity to take the next step.

Interested?

The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on (phone number removed) or (url removed)