3 month contract role with a Local Authority Job Summary: • Senior Planning Officer within the Planning Policy team at North Northamptonshire Council, responsible for leading and supporting policy development, evidence gathering and project delivery across the Council’s Growth and Regeneration directorate. • The role focuses on shaping local planning policy, managing key workstreams, supporting Local Plan delivery, and representing the Council in planning matters including appeals and hearings. • Hybrid working arrangement with a mix of office-based work in Thrapston and remote working. Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample): • Lead and project manage planning policy workstreams, including preparation of evidence base documents. • Research, draft and develop planning policies and guidance in line with legislative and local requirements. • Support Local Plan preparation, consultation exercises and Examination in Public processes. • Undertake research and data analysis to inform planning policy and place-shaping initiatives. • Prepare reports, briefings and recommendations for senior officers and elected members. • Engage with stakeholders, communities and developers through consultations, meetings and exhibitions. • Provide planning policy advice on complex planning applications and corporate projects. • Prepare appeal statements and represent the Council at hearings, inquiries and examinations. • Maintain monitoring systems and analyse planning data to identify trends and inform decision-making. • Commission and manage external consultants where specialist input is required. • Support neighbourhood planning groups and community-led planning initiatives. • Contribute to cross-departmental projects such as infrastructure planning and delivery. Skills/Experience: • Degree in Town Planning (or related field) eligible for membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI). • Licentiate (or working towards Chartered) RTPI membership. • Strong understanding of the English planning system, legislation and policy framework. • Experience in planning policy, Local Plan preparation, or development management. • Ability to manage multiple projects and deliver work to deadlines. • Strong analytical, research and report writing skills. • Experience of stakeholder engagement and public consultation processes. • Confident presenting at meetings, hearings or public forums. • IT proficiency, including planning systems and ideally GIS tools. • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. • Ability to work independently and as part of a team. • Full UK driving licence and ability to travel across the authority area. Additional Information: • Bi-Weekly Payments. • Working pattern: 37 hours per week, typically 09:00–17:30. • Hybrid working: Approx. 2 days office-based, 3 days remote (flexible). • Location: Cedar Drive, Thrapston, North Northamptonshire. • Rate: £45 per hour (Umbrella). • Requirement for regular site visits, including outdoor environments and construction sites.