Planner / Senior Planner

Planner/Senior Planner

Oxford City Council is seeking enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join our Development Management Service as either a Planner or a Senior Planner. These roles offer an exciting opportunity to contribute to shaping a world-class city while developing your career within a forward-thinking local authority.

We are on a journey of improvement and innovation, striving to provide an exemplary planning service. If you have a pragmatic, solution-focused approach, strong negotiation skills, and a commitment to excellent customer service, we would love to hear from you.

About the Roles

We are recruiting for both Planner and Senior Planner positions, depending on experience. Both roles involve managing a caseload of planning applications, appeals, and pre-application enquiries. The Senior Planner role includes additional responsibilities such as mentoring junior staff, signing off decisions, and handling more complex cases.

This is a hybrid role (Site visits 1 day per week, remainder from home or office).

Key Responsibilities

1. Manage a varied caseload of planning applications, pre-application advice, appeals, and post-application conditions.
2. Provide planning advice to stakeholders, including Councillors, applicants, agents, and the public.
3. Attend site visits, Planning Committees, and meetings as required.
4. Contribute to the continuous improvement of the planning service by assisting with the development and implementation of new processes.

Additional Responsibilities for Senior Planner

1. Act as a lead officer for complex and high-profile planning cases.
2. Present applications to Planning Committees and represent the Council at public meetings.
3. Support and mentor junior colleagues, assisting in their development.
4. Review and sign off decisions on behalf of the team.

Who We Are Looking For

We welcome applications from candidates at different stages of their planning careers. The ideal candidate will have:

Essential Criteria (All Levels)

1. A degree or postgraduate qualification in Planning or an equivalent subject, providing eligibility for RTPI membership.
2. Experience in Development Management, preferably within a UK local authority.
3. Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage workload effectively under pressure.
4. Good oral and written communication skills, including report writing and presenting applications.
5. Experience in delivering high-quality customer service.

Additional Criteria for Senior Planner

1. Extensive experience in managing complex planning cases.
2. Proven ability to lead on major planning applications and present at committee.
3. Experience in mentoring and supporting junior colleagues.
4. Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills.

Why Join Us?

Oxford City Council is an ambitious and inclusive employer, dedicated to making Oxford a fairer, greener city where everyone can thrive. As part of our team, you will benefit from:

• Generous holiday allowance - 29 days per year, plus an extra 4 days after 5 years' service.
• Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Professional development opportunities, including career-grade progression.
• Payment of professional fees and subscriptions.
• Health and wellbeing benefits, including gym discounts and cycle-to-work scheme.
• Flexible working arrangements, with hybrid working options.

How to Apply

For more information and to apply, please visit our website by clicking on the 'apply button'.

If you require further details or an informal discussion about the roles, please contact Hayley Jeffery via email at .

Closing Date: 25 April 2025

Interview Dates: 13 & 14 May 2025

We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We actively encourage applications from underrepresented groups.

Oxford City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk. All staff and volunteers must demonstrate this commitment in their work.

Come and be part of shaping the future of Oxford - apply today!