Principal Planning Officer

Principal Planning Officer needed in Guildford Paying  £39 per hr ref 5299050

Full time hours on a temporary basis

• Key Skills and Competencies

  • Planning Knowledge – Extensive understanding of planning legislation, national and local planning policy, development management processes, and planning applications.

  • Decision-Making – Able to assess complex planning proposals objectively and make balanced, evidence-based recommendations that align with policy and community interests.

  • Report Writing – Skilled in producing clear, accurate, and well-structured committee reports, delegated reports, and professional correspondence.

  • Communication – Confident in explaining planning policies, recommendations, and decisions to councillors, developers, residents, and other stakeholders.

  • Negotiation – Experienced in working with developers, agents, and consultees to secure amendments, planning obligations, and positive development outcomes.

  • Leadership – Capable of supervising, mentoring, and supporting junior planning officers while contributing to service improvement and team development.

  • Project Management – Able to manage a varied caseload of complex and major planning applications, ensuring deadlines and performance targets are met.

  • Problem Solving – Skilled in identifying planning issues, resolving conflicts, and finding practical solutions to challenging development proposals.

  • Attention to Detail – Thorough approach to reviewing plans, environmental information, legal agreements, and supporting documentation to ensure compliance and accuracy.

  • Teamwork and Stakeholder Management – Effective at building positive working relationships with internal departments, statutory consultees, elected members, developers, and local communities.

   

If you are interested in the role, please email your CV to verity@essentialemploy.co.uk quoting the reference number. 

Essential Employment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy. Essential Employment is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

All our roles may be subject to pre-employment checks including references so please be prepared