Principal Planning Officer – Development Management

About the job

What will I be doing?

Help shape the future of Somerset. Join one of the UK’s largest unitary authorities and play a key role in delivering sustainable growth across a county renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant communities and ambitious vision for the future.

As a single authority serving almost 600,000 residents, Somerset Council offers exceptional opportunities for planners across Development Management, Enforcement, Planning Policy, and Minerals & Waste. From major regeneration and infrastructure projects to housing growth, heritage conservation and rural development, you’ll work on some of the most diverse and high-profile planning challenges in the country.

As a Principal Planning Officer, you’ll lead on complex planning applications and major development schemes, helping to shape places, support communities and deliver lasting impact.

This is more than planning. It’s your chance to help transform Somerset for generations to come.

• Manage and determine major and complex planning applications from pre‑application through to decision and delivery
• Provide expert planning advice to councillors, colleagues, developers and local communities
• Lead negotiations on complex development proposals, including securing infrastructure and planning obligations
• Represent the Council at committees, appeals, public meetings and inquiries
• Support, mentor and guide junior planning officers, promoting high professional standards

What kind of experience or qualifications do I need?

• Significant experience working at a senior level in development management or planning
• Strong knowledge of planning legislation, policy and decision‑making processes
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and competing priorities
• Excellent negotiation, communication and stakeholder‑management skills
• Strong team leadership and management experience, with the ability to monitor performance, support staff development, manage workloads effectively and foster a positive, collaborative team culture.A degree in planning or a related subject, with RTPI membership (or eligibility)

What is in it for me?

At Somerset Council, we’re a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities. Based in one of England’s most beautiful counties, it’s a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life.

• Generous annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK’s most enhanced and secure pension schemes.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance, where service needs allow.
• Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services.
• Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work.

Supporting documents and information

• 33 day’s annual leave (additional to bank holidays).
• We are happy to consider part time and flexible working patterns – we work hard to sustain a good work-life balance and are passionate about maintaining a positive and supportive working culture.
• Flexible and hybrid working (1-2 days per week in the office).

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for VISA sponsorship.

If you’re driven to help shape vibrant, sustainable communities and want to leave a lasting legacy for Somerset, we’d welcome a conversation. For an informal chat about the role, you can contact Nikki Honan via email at Nikki.Honan@somerset.gov.uk or Zac Ellwood via email at zac.ellwood@somerset.gov.uk

We believe diversity makes us stronger and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, whose unique perspectives help us better serve the people of Somerset.

If you’re passionate about planning and want to work on projects that genuinely shape places and communities, we would love to hear from you.

Apply on the Somerset Council website

Apply now