Principal Planning Officer – Development Management

Overview

In this role you drive complex minerals and waste planning cases within Kent County Council. You’ll manage a varied caseload and support the delivery of the County’s infrastructure and community projects. You’ll prepare and present reports to Members and Planning Committee, and may act as an expert witness at appeals and hearings. You’ll mentor colleagues and apply sound professional judgment across challenging development proposals, aligning with planning policy and legislation to support sustainable growth.

Pay / Benefits

• hybrid working (office + home)
• competitive salary
• permanent full-time role
• opportunity to specialise in a niche field
• excellent career prospects
• flexible working arrangements

Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of minerals and waste development applications
• Support determination of the Council’s infrastructure and development projects (schools, facilities, etc.)
• Prepare and present reports to Members and Planning Committee
• Represent the Council at planning appeals, hearings, inquiries, and legal proceedings (expert witness when required)
• Mentor and develop colleagues through technical guidance and quality assurance
• Apply knowledge of EIA, AA, and complex development management to high-profile cases
• Engage effectively with applicants, consultees, Members and other stakeholders
• Maintain awareness of current and emerging planning legislation, policy and guidance

Key requirements

• Degree in planning or related environmental/legal discipline (or equivalent)
• Chartered Member of the RTPI or eligible for Chartered Membership
• Knowledge and experience of minerals and/or waste development or community development
• Demonstrable experience in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), EIA development and Appropriate Assessment
• Strong development management expertise including major developments
• Strong political awareness within a planning environment
• Ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and work across cross-functional teams

• Political awareness
• Stakeholder engagement
• Mentoring / coaching
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
• Appropriate Assessment (AA)
• Planning legislation, policy and guidance

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