Planning Officer - Sustainable Places x2

Do you want to work for an organisation that truly values diversity and inclusion? Then the Environment Agency could be the place for you. We are fully committed to be an inclusive employer, promote equality of opportunity, and create a workplace where everyone feels valued. We welcome flexible working arrangements across all our vacancies. Are you looking for a career where you can make a real difference, by joining a team that is passionate about tackling the climate and nature emergencies through our strategic goals for:

• Green growth and a sustainable future.
• Healthy air, land and water.
• A nation resilient to climate change.

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual to join the Sustainable Places Team. As a Planning Officer, you will play a vital role in managing the Environment Agency's interaction with the Town & Country Planning process, supporting the team to manage planning consultations from Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) and developers across the Area. Your work will involve:

• Coordinating and screening planning applications and enquiries received from LPAs and developers and logging this caseload onto our dedicated system.
• Responding to pre-development enquiries, low risk consultations, and administering our chargeable advice service.
• Providing a positive planning service to our customers.
• Building effective relationships with our internal consultees.

The Sustainable Places Team liaise with our specialist teams, providing high quality advice to Local Planning Authorities and developers, influencing new developments to ensure protection of the environment, promote sustainability, and minimise risk from flooding. The team is knowledgeable and supportive. Our work moves fast. We deliver the EA's role as a statutory consultee in the Town Planning system. To do this, the team works closely with internal technical experts across the Environment Agency.

• Passion for people and the environment - a genuine interest in making a positive impact on communities and the environment.
• Excellent organisational skills - able to manage your own workload and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage and enthuse others.
• Teamwork and collaboration - strong ability to work well with others and share ideas.
• Experience using Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook applications.
• Self‑motivation and ability to work independently.
• Adaptability and prioritisation - ability to adapt and prioritise effectively in a fast‑paced environment to meet deadlines.

• Screening and logging experience using specific criteria.
• Experience using DPS
  3.
• Understanding of the planning system.

• A salary up to £28,607.
• Generous Pension:
  Secure your future with our excellent pension scheme.
• Work‑Life Balance:
  Enjoy 25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays, with options for flexible working.
• Career Growth & Comprehensive Training:
  Benefit from structured development, mentorship, and continuous learning.
• Impactful Work:
  Directly contribute to protecting and enhancing the environment, making a real difference.
• Inclusive Culture:
  Join a supportive team that values diversity and collaboration.
• Extra Perks:
  Paid environmental outcomes days, and comprehensive leave schemes (maternity, paternity, adoption).
• Options for flexible and / or part‑time working may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.