Planning Ofiicer

VANRATH is delighted to be recruiting on behalf of our public sector client for the position of Planning Officer within a respected local authority in Northern Ireland. This is an excellent opportunity to join a dedicated Economic Development & Planning team and contribute to shaping the future of local communities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the delivery of high-quality, efficient planning services across development management, enforcement, or forward planning.
• Provide professional planning advice to colleagues, elected members, and the public.
• Prepare reports, technical papers, and planning evidence for committees, public inquiries, and appeals.
• Supervise and develop junior planning staff and contribute to performance management.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to support the Council's planning objectives.
• Represent the planning team at public meetings and workshops, occasionally outside of standard hours.

Candidate Profile:

• Degree (or equivalent) in Planning or a related discipline with a minimum of 2 years' relevant experience in a planning environment (public, private, or voluntary sector).
• Alternatively, a relevant HNC/HND with 3 years' planning experience.
• Strong understanding of Northern Ireland planning policy and legislation.
• Proven ability to manage workloads, prioritise tasks, and lead a small team effectively.
• Membership (or eligibility for membership) of RTPI or IPI is desirable.
• Full driving licence or suitable alternative transport arrangements.

Desirable:

• Experience managing staff using performance frameworks.
• Familiarity with GIS software or similar planning applications.

For further information on this vacancy, or any other Built Environment job in Belfast or wider Northern Ireland, please apply via the link below or contact Glenn Roberts in the strictest confidence.
Follow VANRATH on LinkedIn for: Expert career advice. The latest Top Jobs. Industry News. And much more…