Job Description
Job Title: Senior Planner
Location: Cheltenham
Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting an innovative environmental and planning consultancy in their search for a Senior Planner to join their growing team in Cheltenham.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced planner to join a consultancy working at the forefront of Local Plan promotion, environmental planning, and sustainable development. The successful candidate will contribute to projects that directly influence climate resilience, housing delivery, biodiversity enhancement, green infrastructure, and long-term placemaking across the UK.
THE ROLE
As a Senior Planner, you will play a key role in supporting and delivering Local Plan and environmental planning projects for a broad range of clients across England.
You will work closely with colleagues on planning policy, Sustainability Appraisals (SA), Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA), and wider environmental planning work, helping clients navigate ongoing planning reforms and evolving legislation.
This is a fantastic opportunity for a Senior Planner looking to work on projects that shape communities and deliver meaningful environmental and social outcomes.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Supporting the preparation, review, and consultation stages of Local Plans and environmental policies
Assisting with Sustainability Appraisals (SA) and Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA)
Undertaking planning policy research, data analysis, and evidence base preparation
Supporting spatial analysis and mapping work using GIS software such as QGIS or ArcGIS
Preparing reports, consultation documents, and technical assessments
Liaising with Local Planning Authorities, statutory consultees, developers, and community groups
Supporting project delivery across planning reform, housing, biodiversity, and sustainability projects
Contributing to knowledge sharing and wider team development initiatives
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Degree in Town Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Science, or a related discipline
MRTPI qualified or working towards Chartership
Experience within a planning, environmental, or consultancy environment
Strong understanding of the UK planning system and Local Plan preparation
Knowledge of Sustainability Appraisal and Strategic Environmental Assessment processes
Experience using GIS software such as QGIS or ArcGIS desirable
Strong analytical, research, and written communication skills
Organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple projects effectively
A collaborative approach and genuine interest in sustainable development and planning reform
WHAT'S ON OFFER
Competitive salary and benefits package
Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
Opportunity to work on nationally significant planning and environmental projects
Supportive and collaborative consultancy environment
Clear progression opportunities and ongoing professional development
Exposure to projects focused on climate resilience, biodiversity, and sustainable placemaking
Interested? Contact Joel Bland on (phone number removed) or email at (url removed)