Planning Officer – Maldon District Council

Planning Officer - Maldon District Council

Maldon District Council

Temporary, Full Time

£35.00 per hour (umbrella)

Location: Maldon

Closing Date: 26th October 2026

Essex County Council (ECC) are delighted to be supporting Maldon District Council to recruit a Planning Officer on a three-month temporary basis. Please note that this role requires 2 days a week site attendance.

Role Purpose:

To provide a range of timely and effective guidance, ensuring compliance, good practice, risk management and enabling the Council to deliver for its customers.

• To support the planning team in delivering high-quality planning services that balance community, environmental, and regulatory considerations.
• The assessment and processing of planning applications, ensuring compliance with legislation, local policies, and national planning guidance.
• The preparation of reports, recommendations, and planning advice for internal and external stakeholders, including Members, developers, and the public.
• To support the development and delivery of planning strategies, policies, and projects that enable sustainable growth and positive community outcomes.
• To maintain accurate records and databases, ensuring information is up-to-date, accessible, and compliant with data protection requirements.

Key Accountabilities:

• The assessment and processing of planning applications, ensuring adherence to relevant legislation, policies, and guidance.
• Prepare reports, recommendations, and supporting documentation for internal and external stakeholders, including Members, developers, and the public.
• Support the implementation and development of local planning policies, strategies, and projects to deliver sustainable development outcomes.
• Maintain accurate records and planning databases, ensuring information is up-to-date, accessible, and compliant with data protection requirements.
• Contribute to consultations with internal teams, external agencies, and community stakeholders, providing advice and guidance as required.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements, supporting initiatives to enhance efficiency, customer service, and compliance within the planning service.
• Develop professional knowledge and expertise in planning practice, legislation, and policy, applying learning to support effective decision-making.
• Provide professional support to more senior planners and contribute to collaborative team projects, including research, data analysis, and policy development

The Experience You Will Bring:

• An undergraduate degree in Planning, Urban Planning, Geography, Environmental Management, or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience.
• Eligibility to work towards Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI) or equivalent professional body.
• Understanding of the planning system, relevant legislation, and national and local planning policies.
• Awareness of sustainable development principles and their application in a local authority context.
• Knowledge of customer service standards and approaches in a public sector environment.
• Understanding of data protection and information management principles.
• Awareness of planning procedures, including consultations, enforcement, and community engagement.
• Familiarity with digital systems, GIS, and other IT tools used in planning service delivery is desirable.