Senior Planning Officer

Job Details

Herefordshire Council is recruiting for two Senior Planning Officer posts: one full‑time (37 hours per week) and one six‑month part‑time maternity cover (22.2 hours per week). The permanent post is rated HC08 with a salary of £36,363 – £40,777 per annum (or part-time equivalent). Closing date: 17/07/2026.

You will be based within one of the two area teams and will work on significant planning applications for the City of Hereford and surrounding market towns and villages. The role involves handling casework, supporting the development of a new Local Plan, and contributing to sustainable growth and environmental protection.

• Deal with a range of planning and associated applications.
• Apply planning policy, regulatory issues and current legislation.
• Work independently and within a team to meet tight deadlines and manage multiple work streams.
• Support the preparation and implementation of the new Local Plan.
• Engage with local communities and stakeholders on planning matters.

• Demonstrable senior level experience with a local planning authority.
• Strong knowledge of planning policy, regulatory issues and current legislation.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Membership or active pursuit of membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute.
• Full driving licence.
• UK citizenship or residency – no sponsorship provided.

• Competitive salary as per HC08 rates.
• Enrolment in the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Annual leave: 31 days (pro‑rata) plus bank holidays; option to purchase an additional 10 days.
• Flexible working including job‑sharing, part‑time hours and agile working.
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
• Payment of professional membership fees.
• Access to a range of retail, leisure, holiday and health benefits.

Herefordshire Council is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace and supports reasonable adjustments for accessibility. Candidates who demonstrate commitment to the Disability Confident scheme, the Armed Forces Covenant or are Herefordshire care leavers will be given priority consideration.

All staff are required to pass a Disclosure and Barring Service check. The council upholds safeguarding and welfare responsibilities for children, young people and vulnerable adults.