Senior / Principal Planning Officer (x2)

About the Role We are seeking two experienced Senior or Principal Planning Officers to support a busy and diverse Planning Service within a West Midlands local authority. This is an excellent opportunity to work within a proactive team handling a broad range of complex applications and contributing to the delivery of high‑quality development across the district. You’ll play a key role in managing strategic and major applications, supporting junior officers where required, and ensuring timely decision-making in line with statutory requirements. Key Responsibilities * Manage a caseload of major, complex, and strategic planning applications, pre‑application enquiries, and appeals. * Provide professional planning advice to applicants, agents, councillors, and stakeholders. * Prepare and present reports to Planning Committee, including defending decisions at appeal when necessary. * Lead on negotiations with developers to secure high‑quality design, environmental standards, and appropriate planning obligations. Requirements * Proven experience operating at Senior or Principal Planning Officer level within a UK local authority. * Strong understanding of the Town and Country Planning Act, NPPF, and wider planning legislation. * Track record in handling major or complex development proposals. * Excellent communication skills, including report writing, negotiation, and presenting. * RTPI membership (or working toward it) is desirable but not essential. What’s on Offer * Competitive hourly rate up to £55 p/h. * Flexible hybrid working. * Opportunity to work on high‑profile developments within an ambitious authority. * Supportive team culture with scope to influence key planning outcomes