Associate Town Planner Location: Manchester (Hybrid Working) Job Type: Full-time (37.5 hours per week) Overview An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Associate Town Planner to join an established and ambitious Strategic Planning Team based in Manchester. This role offers the chance to play a key part in growing the team and delivering high-quality planning consultancy services across a diverse portfolio of projects. Working within a multidisciplinary environment, you will collaborate with colleagues across the wider business to identify new opportunities and develop strong client relationships. The Role You will lead on a variety of planning projects across sectors including residential, commercial, retail, and leisure. The role involves managing projects from early-stage site appraisals and promotion through to planning applications and delivery. Key Responsibilities Managing and prioritising your own caseload Delivering high-quality planning advice and services to clients Mentoring and supporting junior team members, including through the APC process Undertaking site appraisals and developing site-specific strategies Preparing and managing planning applications and associated reports Preparing site promotion submissions and representations Coordinating multidisciplinary teams including architects, landscape, highways, drainage, and ecology consultants Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, including Planning Officers, Councillors, and statutory consultees Leading and attending project meetings Negotiating to achieve the best outcomes for clients Supporting wider team collaboration and workload sharing Managing project budgets, time recording, and invoicing About You MRTPI qualified or working towards submission Strong interpersonal and communication skills Self-motivated with a proactive approach A collaborative team player Competent in Microsoft Office and IT systems High attention to detail and accuracy Excellent time management and organisational skills Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines Good understanding of the UK planning market What’s on Offer Hybrid working policy Discretionary bonus scheme 25 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days with service, plus birthday leave and additional time off over the festive period Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption, and shared parental leave Access to an online discounts and savings platform Death in Service cover and Employee Assistance Programme, including health support Volunteering leave (2 days per year, pro rata for part-time employees) If interested, feel free to reach out to Marta – marta@zodiacrecruitment.co.uk / 01792 677 005