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The Opportunity

Following a recent restructure, we’re excited to offer four Principal Planning Officer roles. We’re looking for passionate, driven professionals ready to make a real difference in our communities.

As a Principal Planning Officer, you’ll:

• Lead on a diverse caseload, including major housing schemes and complex developments.
• Present cases at Plans Committee and see them through to determination.
• Mentor and supervise junior colleagues, reviewing reports and appeal statements to ensure high standards.

About You

You’re a confident, experienced planner with:

• A sharp analytical mind and the ability to produce high-quality reports and statements to tight deadlines.
• Strong negotiation skills and recent experience in development management.
• A full UK driving licence and access to transport – essential for site visits across Charnwood.

In return, you’ll be supported by a knowledgeable, welcoming team and have access to continuous professional development in a forward-thinking planning service.

Top tip: Make sure your application clearly demonstrates how you meet the essential (and desirable) criteria – it’s key to securing an interview.

Why Work With Us?

We’re proud of our collaborative, supportive culture. At Charnwood, you’ll:

• Be part of a friendly, professional team that values innovation and teamwork.
• Work closely with councillors, developers, and residents to deliver inclusive, balanced planning outcomes.
• Join a council that champions transparency, integrity, and community-focused service.

Grow With Us

• Access tailored training, mentoring, and support for RTPI/IHBC/CIEEM accreditation.
• Explore clear career progression pathways and development opportunities.

Work Your Way

• Enjoy flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options and adaptable hours.
• Benefit from generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and a strong focus on wellbeing.
• Thrive in a modern, inclusive workplace that celebrates diversity and equality.

What We Offer

• 35.5 to 40.5 days annual leave (including bank holidays), depending on service.
• Agile and hybrid working options.
• Ongoing professional development and training.
• Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Office closure over the festive period.
• A welcoming, inclusive, and diverse workplace culture.
• Free parking.

Be You

At Charnwood, we celebrate diversity and individuality. We believe that a truly inclusive workforce makes our services stronger and more effective. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and a Gold Award holder under the Armed Forces Covenant.

Our staff play an active role in shaping our workplace through wellbeing and equality forums and working groups.

About Us

Welcome to Charnwood – a thriving, diverse borough of 180,000 residents, perfectly positioned between the dynamic cities of Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby. At its heart lies Loughborough, a vibrant university town surrounded by picturesque countryside and charming villages

Why Charnwood?

We’re on the brink of something big. With our new Local Plan, we’re setting the stage for ambitious, sustainable growth. From major urban extensions and regeneration zones to the UK’s largest science and enterprise park within our Enterprise Zone – the future is full of opportunity.

We’re also advancing key planning tools, including a Community Infrastructure Levy, a suite of Supplementary Planning Documents, and a cutting-edge Design Code.

Join us and you’ll be part of a team that’s:

• Driving forward a bold growth agenda in both urban and rural settings.
• Championing sustainable development, heritage conservation, and biodiversity.
• Helping shape the future of Loughborough – a hub of innovation and academic excellence.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you’re ready to help shape the future of Charnwood and share our values, we’d love to hear from you. Don’t wait – apply today!

Find out more about this role and our team at:
👉 https://www.charnwood.gov.uk/planningcareers

Additional Information

Charnwood’s central location offers excellent transport links by rail, road, and air – connecting you to the UK and beyond. Our borough is a growing hub of innovation, powered by world-class research from Loughborough University and a thriving science and tech sector.

With a rich mix of cultural, physical, and social assets, Charnwood is perfectly placed to deliver sustainable, inclusive growth.

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