Principal Planning Officer, Planning Obligations and Major Infrastructure

Job Title:Principal Planning Officer Planning Obligations and Major Infrastructure
Salary:per annum(pro rata if part-time)
Grade:G
Contract Type:Fixed Term (or Internal Secondment) (Maternity Cover for 10 months)
Working Hours:37 hours per week

Please note this a maternity cover role for 10 months which will commence in May 2026

About the department

This role sits within the Place Directorate which is a forward-looking team responsible for shaping sustainable growth delivering major infrastructure and ensuring high-quality planning services across the borough. The team works collaboratively across council services developers and the community to manage planning obligations guide development and maximise local benefits.

As Principal Planning Officer you will play a central role in delivering the councils strategic objectives by leading the management and monitoring of S106 agreements influencing nationally significant infrastructure projects and ensuring developments contribute positively to Thurrocks long-term growth and community well being.

About the Role

As aPrincipal Planning Officer- Planning Obligations and Major Infrastructure you willbe responsible for:

• Management and Monitoring of S106 Agreements and CIL
  Lead on the full range of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and S106 work including collection analysis and reporting. Maintain robust systems to monitor financial contributions performance against agreed measures and ensure timely allocation for spending in line with corporate objectives
• NSIP and Major Infrastructure Engagement
  Shape and influence nationally significant infrastructure projects (NSIPs) and other major developments to secure policy compliant planning decisions maximise community benefits and support local growth objectives. Provide expert input at relevant stages including Development Consent Orders and community engagement.
• Policy Guidance and Compliance
  Develop advise on and implement planning policies guidance and best practice related to S106 CIL and NSIPs. Ensure legislative contractual and procedural compliance including Environmental Impact Assessment regulations energy sector developments and related supply chain considerations.
• Stakeholder Member and Committee Engagement
  Present complex and/or controversial planning matters clearly to Committees Members and external stakeholders. Build strong relationships across council services community groups and statutory consultees to support transparent evidence-based decision-making.
• Continuous Improvement and Service Leadership
  Proactively identify opportunities to improve processes systems and service delivery. Lead projects to enhance efficiency and quality coach colleagues to develop skills and provide professional advice on high-risk or precedent setting issues.
• Monitoring Reporting and Financial Oversight
  Oversee key performance indicators budget processes and internal/external reporting requirements. Ensure effective monitoring of S106/CIL contributions compliance with statutory obligations and delivery of high-quality outcomes aligned with Council-wide objectives.

This role offers the chance to make a real difference by securing developer contributions and infrastructure delivery that improve local services and community facilities

WhatWereLooking For

Werelooking for someone who has:

• Proven experience in planning at a senior level including negotiation with applicants presenting evidence at public enquiries hearings or tribunals and involvement in nationally significant infrastructure projects (NSIPs).
• Demonstrated experience managing S106 agreements and/or Community Infrastructure Levy data administration systems ensuring accurate timely and efficient monitoring and reporting.
• Ability to set challenging targets manage performance and develop staff to ensure a motivated high-performing team capable of meeting service objectives.
• Proven track record of delivering creative practical solutions to complex challenges using data and evidence to drive continuous improvements and maintain a can-do approach to service delivery

Essential qualifications:Membership or working towards membership of an appropriate professional body e.g. Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).

DBS Check:N/A

Benefits of Working with Us

At Thurrock Council we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Generous annual leave entitlement
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Flexible and hybrid working opportunities (where applicable)
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Employeeassistanceprogramme and wellbeing support
• Staff discounts and local offers
• A supportive and inclusive working environment

Closing Date (Redeployment Only):23rd April 2026

Closing Date (Internal & External):10th May 2026

Interview Date: To Be Confirmed

Additional Information

If you have any questions about the role or interview process please contact:

Priscilla Omede Principal Planning Officer Planning Obligations and Major Infrastructure

To view the Job Profile and Person Specification please follow the link below:

Download Job Profile (PDF Document)

If the Job Profile and Person Specification list any qualifications as essential please also upload copies of those relevant qualifications.