PDP Planning Officer

Job Introduction We are committed to the development of our workforce. This position is only available to applicants who already work for Surrey County Council. We thank you for your interest in our roles and would encourage you to review our vacancies which are open to all. The starting salary range for this role is £34,660 - £42,958 per annum, working 36 hours per week. We’re excited to welcome a Planning Officer into our friendly and specialist Minerals and Waste Policy Team. If you’re passionate about the environment, interested in land‑use planning, and looking for a role where you can grow your skills while contributing to meaningful policy work, this could be the perfect next step. Our team is based in Woking (and Reigate) and works flexibly in a hybrid way. We’re a close-knit group with a strong commitment to professional standards, collaboration and continuous learning. Our Offer to You 26 days’ holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years' service and 31 days after 5 years’ service Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave A generous local government salary related pension Up to 5 days of carer’s leave and 2 paid volunteering days per year Paternity, adoption and dependents leave An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, and shopping A chance to make a real difference to the lives of our residents A structured Professional Development Programme, including opportunities to gain new skills, experience and a planning qualification accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute About the Role Our team is responsible for preparing, maintaining and monitoring Surrey’s Minerals and Waste Development Framework, ensuring the county can sustainably manage its waste and provide for a secure supply of essential mineral resources. We pride ourselves on being efficient, professional and forward‑thinking. Surrey County Council is also on an exciting transformation journey, aiming to become a leading‑edge authority where no one is left behind. You will join at a pivotal time as we shape long‑term environmental and infrastructure outcomes for the county. As a Planning Officer, you will support a broad range of important policy activities that help shape the future of minerals and waste planning. This will include contributing to the preparation of the joint Minerals and Waste Local Plan, as well as supporting the development of evidence, analysis and research to inform planning policy and decision-making. You will assist with monitoring and reporting responsibilities, including the preparation of annual Local Aggregate Assessments and Authority Monitoring Reports. The role also provides the opportunity to participate in key technical groups, such as the South East England Aggregate Working Party and the South East Waste Planning Advisory Group, helping to ensure that local planning activities are informed by regional priorities and best practice. A key aspect of the role will involve engaging with stakeholders and supporting effective communication. You will draft responses to planning consultations, manage enquiries from operators, partners and members of the public, and help deliver both digital and face-to-face stakeholder engagement activities. Although the post does not include line management responsibilities, you will be encouraged to take ownership of your workload, manage your time effectively and proactively pursue your own professional development, helping you to build your expertise and progress your career within the planning profession. Shortlisting Criteria In order to be considered for shortlisting, your application will clearly evidence the following skills and align with our behaviours : Educated to A level / HNC or equivalent (Level 3/4 QCF/RQF). A degree in planning, geography, environmental science or a related field is an advantage A good understanding of land‑use planning in England and the role of local government Strong digital and data skills Good communication skills, able to explain complex information clearly in writing and verbally Strong organisational, analytical and administrative abilities Ability to plan and manage your own workload and work independently when needed Previous experience in a local government, planning, development, environmental services or construction‑related setting in the United Kingdom If you’re looking for a role in local government where you can develop as a planning professional, contribute to meaningful work, and be part of a supportive and specialist planning team, we’d love to hear from you. Your Application Please submit a CV and a personal statement (no more than 1,000 words) explaining why you are a good fit for the role. Your CV and personal statement should show how you meet the essential criteria listed in our advert and connect your answers to the behaviours we're looking for. Shortlisting for interview will be based on the evidence you provide by way of your CV and personal statement. Before submitting your application, we recommend you read the job description & Our Life at Surrey handbook to get an insight into working at Surrey. The job advert closes at 23:59 on 09/08/2026 with interviews to follow. Contact Us Please see Surrey County Council's website for further information about minerals and waste planning in Surrey and contact us for any questions relating to the role. This could be to discuss flexible working requests, transferable skills or any barriers to employment. Please contact Dustin Lees via email or on MS Teams. Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Surrey County Council is undergoing Local Government Reorganisation, moving from a two-tier system to two new unitary councils in April 2027. If you are employed by Surrey on 1st April 2027, your role will transfer with current terms and conditions to one of the new organisations, supporting local devolution and greater powers for our communities. Join our dynamic team and shape the future of local government. Make a lasting impact with innovative solutions and improved services for our community. Help us build a brighter future for our residents! Please see more information here: Information for applicants on Local Government Reorganisation - Surrey County Council Our Commitment We are a disability confident employer which means if you have shared a disability on your application form and have evidenced you meet the minimum shortlisting criteria, as displayed on the advert, we guarantee you an interview. Your skills and experience truly matter to us. From application to your first day, we’re committed to supporting you with any adjustments you need, we value inclusion and warmly welcome you to join and help build a workplace where everyone belongs.