Planning Enforcement Officer

Hays are delighted to be supporting a busy local authority to appoint a Planning Enforcement Officer within their Development Management team. This position will be an ongoing temporary contract for a minimum 6 months, with the possibility to extend. You will be working on a hybrid basis from the council's local office 2‑3 days per week, whilst also visiting sites throughout the local authority area, so it is important for applicants to live within a commutable distance from Glasgow.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a forward‑thinking and proactive council, where you will play a vital role in protecting the quality of the region by ensuring planning control is maintained and breaches are effectively addressed. Enforcement is central to maintaining public confidence in the planning system and supporting sustainable growth across the area.

Working closely with the Development Management team and Enforcement colleagues, you will investigate, address and resolve breaches of planning control across the local authority area. You will manage your own caseload, undertaking site visits, researching planning history, and taking appropriate action to secure compliance. This is a varied and often complex role, combining proactive investigations with reactive casework, and involving engagement with a wide range of stakeholders.

You will be expected to negotiate effectively to resolve issues wherever possible, while also progressing formal enforcement action when required.

• Investigating alleged breaches of unauthorized activities and carrying out site inspections
• Managing enforcement cases and seeking resolution through negotiation or formal action
• Preparing reports, notices and evidence for enforcement action, appeals and legal proceedings
• Acting as a key point of contact for enforcement enquiries from the public and stakeholders
• Working collaboratively with planning, conservation and other specialist officers
• Monitoring developments in receipt of planning permission to ensure compliance with approved plans and conditions, including the pursuance of subsequent enforcement action when required
• Maintaining accurate records and ensuring cases are progressed and closed effectively
• Assisting in the provision of an effective planning enforcement service which ensures that customer care, quality standards, productivity and performance levels are set and maintained

Compliance with all data protection law in the processing of personal, and special categories of personal data, in line with the council's full privacy statement and service privacy notices.

• A relevant degree or substantial experience in planning enforcement or a related field
• A solid understanding of the UK planning system and its purpose
• Strong communication, negotiation and report‑writing skills
• The ability to manage a varied caseload and prioritise effectively
• Confidence in dealing with challenging situations and stakeholders
• A commitment to delivering high‑quality customer service and achieving positive outcomes
• Previous experience within a local authority or compliance‑based role, along with knowledge of planning law and procedures, would be advantageous
• Full UK driving licence and proximity to Glasgow

• Competitive hourly rate (£27.50 - £30 PAYE, depending on experience)
• Hybrid working
• Initial 6-month contract with strong likelihood of extension
• Opportunity to contribute to and learn from a high‑performing, supportive planning team in central Scotland