Planning Officer x2

Job Vacancy

Children's Services continues to be impacted by the complex needs of children and families. This is an exciting opportunity to lead the review, planning and development of internal resources, including our workforce.

The post holder will plan and increase internal support services such as residential care, commissioned services and workforce planning. Candidates must have a depth of understanding of modern social work practice, communication skills to support stakeholder engagement and the development of policy and reports.

• Lead the review, planning and development of internal resources and workforce.
• Plan and increase internal support services such as residential care and commissioned services.
• Engage stakeholders, write policy and report.

• Degree in social work or acceptable equivalent, or post‑graduate qualification from a recognised professional institute.
• Post‑qualifying experience:
  • Direct practice experience of service planning or development.
  • Substantial experience in the delivery or management of services within a social care environment.
  • Practical experience of partnership working and joint commissioning.
  • Proven report writing and presentation skills.
• Essential understanding of Adult Social Care and Health and Community service systems.
• Specialist knowledge in one or more service areas (e.g., learning disabilities, older people, mental health).

Contract Status:
Fixed term for 2 years – 36 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 52 weeks per year. Minimum actual salary: £48,370.86 per annum.

This post is considered Regulated Work with Children and Protected Adults under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. Applicants must not be barred from working with children or protected adults. Successful candidates will require PVG Scheme membership and will need to join the scheme or undergo a PVG Scheme update check prior to commencing employment.

If you have difficulty applying for this post, accessing attached documents or require reasonable adjustments, call  and state the post reference number. Midlothian Council is undergoing a transformation, so internal candidates may be interviewed before the wider pool.

If you are a trainee of a Midlothian Council Training Programme, have a disability, or have previously been looked after, you are eligible for a guaranteed interview if you meet the essential criteria.

CLOSING DATE – Sunday 18th January 2026 | INTERVIEW DATE – February 2026 (TBC)