Principal Planning Officer

Carrington West are assisting their local authority client based in Essex in the search for a Principal Planning Officer (Development Management) to join their Town Planning department on an initial 6 month contract (then rolling).

We are looking for an experienced planner who is able to hit the ground running and be capable of working with minimum supervision, efficiently managing your workload and making a real contribution towards quality decision making.

• Lead on major planning applications
• Champion design excellence and compliance with national and local policies
• Drive innovation in dealing with major planning applications
• Build strong relationships with developers, councillors, and stakeholders

• Strong interpersonal skills for persuasion, influence, and relationship-building
• Ability to interpret complex data and provide strategic solutions
• Excellent written and verbal communication, including report writing and presentations
• Self‑motivated with strong initiative and workload management
• Proficiency in IT systems, including Idox Uniform and Microsoft 365
• Advanced knowledge of planning legislation and development management practices
• Ability to manage projects and contribute to strategic planning
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and customer‑focused service
• Full UK driving licence and flexibility for site visits and evening meetings

• Significant experience working within a local planning authority or a relevant private sector planning business
• Proven track record of handling a varied caseload of planning applications
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship management
• Experience in developing and managing projects or programmes of work

It would be beneficial to hold a Post‑graduate degree in planning, regeneration or a related discipline, and have the eligibility for membership of RTPI.

The council are looking for candidates who will be able to hit the ground running and are offering hybrid working arrangements with a weekly office presence required.

Pay Rate - £55per/hour

Job  - 63354

Please call for a confidential discussion on this role, or email myself or our planning team if you are short of time to chat:

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Carrington West's dedicated Town Planning Recruitment Team supply clients UK wide on both a permanent and contract basis and all levels of seniority. If this role is too senior, too junior or in a location that is unsuitable, but you are keen on options, please still feel free to apply and we can discuss other, often unadvertised roles with you.