Job Description
Oxford is a city defined by its heritage, innovation and global reputation. At Oxford City Council, we are committed to ensuring that growth and change are underpinned by exceptional design quality and a strong sense of place.
We are seeking an Urban Design Officer to join our well‑established Urban Design team, working on major development proposals and city‑shaping projects across Oxford. This is a varied and influential role for someone passionate about delivering high‑quality, distinctive places in a complex and historic urban environment.
About the role
As an Urban Design Officer, you will provide specialist urban design advice on significant planning applications, contribute to planning policy and design guidance, and play a key role in facilitating the Oxford Design Review Panel. Working closely with planners, elected Members, developers and a wide range of external stakeholders, you will help ensure that new development meets Oxford’s high standards for design, sustainability and place‑making.
Key responsibilities
* Provide specialist urban design advice on major planning applications and pre‑application enquiries
* Support planning colleagues on the urban design aspects of complex development proposals
* Contribute to the preparation of design guidance, planning policy and wider design‑led projects
* Facilitate and support the Oxford Design Review Panel, including preparation, attendance and follow‑up
* Present clear, balanced urban design advice to a range of audiences, including committees and stakeholders
* Work collaboratively across council teams and with external partners to promote high standards of urban design and place‑making
About you
You will bring professional expertise, sound judgement and a collaborative approach to your work. You will have:
* A degree in urban design, architecture or a closely related discipline
* Membership of, or working towards membership of, the Urban Design Group, RTPI or RIBA
* Demonstrable experience dealing with the urban design aspects of major development proposals
* Strong working knowledge of the UK planning system, including current planning law and guidance
* Experience of presenting to elected Members or formal committees
* The ability to produce balanced, evidence‑based recommendations and exercise professional judgement with confidence
* Strong analytical, communication and IT skills
* The ability to build positive and effective working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders
Working arrangements
This role is temp role initially for 3 months based in Oxford, with a hybrid approach to working. Office attendance is flexible and driven by meetings, with around two days per week on site typically expected. Thursdays are commonly office days. A four‑day condensed working pattern may also be considered