About
Suffolk County Council is a modern and effective council, we offer a wide variety of careers to suit people with a range of skills, abilities and ambitions. We offer working options that flex to reflect the way people work today and take the time to understand and support your individual needs. We’re driven to make a positive difference to the world around us and encourage everyone with drive and focus to join us and build an influential and impactful career.
We are focused on making a meaningful difference to communities across Suffolk. How? By listening to our people learning from what they say and creating a culture of mutual respect, where everyone works together to achieve great things. As a Planning Officer in the Development Management team with Suffolk County Council, you will be as keen to collaborate and build a bright future as we are. So, to make a positive impact, connect with us and connect with a fantastic career.
Reimagine the possibilities.
Main description
You will be part of a small but busy team consisting of town planners and other specialists, together with support staff. We are part of a wider group of professionals, transport planners; economic development officers; environmental specialists, working to support sustainable growth in Suffolk.
The Development Management Team is part of the Planning Team, with wider responsibilities around Planning Policy, Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects and Developer Contributions.
Our office days are usually on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Additionally, we practice hybrid working.
We are big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We are always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report.
As either a graduate or non-graduate, your work will make a significant input to the County Council’s planning team, including both forward planning and development management tasks. Our Career Pathway means you will be expected to work with more responsibility as you gain experience. There will be opportunities to work with different aspects of planning across the team. We will also support you with professional training, where needed.
The Career Pathway is designed around the Royal Town Planning Institute’s (RTPI) Chartered Town Planner Apprenticeship, which will advance your career to becoming Chartered Town Planner faster. You will keep a log of your experience, not only for the RTPI’s Assessment of Professional Competence, but also as evidence of progression to the next stage.
You will be part of a small but busy team consisting of town planners and other specialists, together with support staff. We are part of a wider group of professionals, transport planners; economic development officers; environmental specialists, working to support sustainable growth in Suffolk.
Entry requirements
he desire to see growth take place in a way which works with our environment and communities
to seek to create solutions and be open to innovation
ambition to continuously improve in everything you do, taking the initiative to learn and develop.
You will study at London South Bank University so please click on the following link for their entry requirements - Chartered Town Planner Apprenticeships | London South Bank University
You can find more information in the Job and Person Profile (JPP), which you can find in the ‘How to apply’ section towards the bottom of this advert.
If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don't meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
For more information
Please contact Andy Rutter (Development Manager) for a casual conversation. You can reach them by emailing: andy.rutter@suffolk.gov.uk
Benefits
up to 29 days annual leave entitlement (pro rata), plus UK bank holidays and two paid volunteering days
membership of a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits
performance-related annual pay progression, in addition to an annual cost-of-living pay increase
training and encouragement to expand your knowledge
a variety of career development opportunities across our organisation
diverse and active staff networks
flexible working options, with the right to request flexible working from your first day
Plus lots more!
How to apply
Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (Word).
Step 2 - Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement answering the following questions below (no more than 400 words per question). You should use the Supporting Statement template (Word).
1. Give an example of when you had to manage several competing tasks or deadlines. How did you prioritise your workload?
2. Give an example of when you had to learn a new process, system or area of knowledge quickly. What steps did you take to develop your understanding?
3. Planning often involves balancing different priorities and viewpoints. Tell us about a time when you had to consider differing opinions before reaching a conclusion or making a recommendation.
Step 4 - Upload a CV (without name and personal details).
Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.
Closing Date
The closing date for this job offer is on 20/10/2026
Salary
£26,016 - £40,444 per annum
Location
This job is located in Ipswich, Suffolk
More Information and How to Apply
About West Suffolk College
West Suffolk College is an ambitious vocational and academic College, with a stunning main campus set in the heart of Bury St Edmunds. We are committed to providing outstanding education to all our students.
