Company Description  

For 35 years CJ Associates has helped deliver some of the UK’s most complex and high-profile infrastructure projects.  We are an independent specialist project support consultancy with expertise in consents and authorisations, programme and commercial management, strategy, stakeholder engagement and consultation.  

We provide services at all project stages and to all sectors of the infrastructure industry. From project initiation to construction and operation, we provide support by integration into, collaboration with, or direct management of project teams —essential for the successful planning, authorisation, and delivery of major projects.

We work in partnership with our clients and support them in meeting their corporate goals. Our clients include: government organisations, international banks, major construction companies, infrastructure operators, property developers and private investors; who repeatedly turn to us for project assistance. Which we believe is a testament to the value and expertise we bring and the long-term relationships we build.

Our Purpose

To bring passionate, independent, creative thinking to complex challenges that deliver better outcomes for our clients and their communities. We’re a purpose-driven consultancy where infrastructure meets integrity —and your work really matters.

Due to increasing demand for our services, we are seeking to recruit a new Senior Planner to join our Town Planning & Consents Team.

Role:  Senior Planner - Town Planning & Consents Team

To provide town planning expertise for both public and private sector clients in the transport, energy and water sectors on major infrastructure and regeneration projects in the UK.  

Key elements of the job

• Work as an integrated member of the team supporting clients in the delivery and implementation of planning and consents applications including Town and Country Planning Act submissions, Development Consent Orders, Transport & Works Act Orders and Parliamentary Bills.
• Analysis of relevant town planning policy and legislative framework at an early stage in project development, to provide strategic advice on the town planning requirements.  
• Supporting engagement and consultation with key stakeholders including local authorities, statutory bodies and third parties, to reach agreement on planning and consenting matters.  
• Providing planning advice for EIA projects.
• Working within multi-disciplinary teams including engineers and architects aiding their understanding of consenting requirements and processes. Collaborating on the production of consents submission deliverables.
• Monitoring construction related activities to ensure compliance with consents and planning obligations.  
• Participation at and supporting public consultation and community liaison events.
• Compilation of evidence for Public Hearings and Inquiries.

Expected Skills and Experience   

• A degree in Town Planning or a relevant discipline. 
• Have achieved or be working towards, chartered membership of RTPI.  
• Have a desire to develop a career in the delivery of Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects.
• Experience in development management is essential and knowledge of the DCO process would be preferable.
• Strong report writing skills and the ability to present detailed information and clearly.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• A team player willing to support other colleagues in the delivery of projects.
•  A self-motivated individual willing to learn and develop skills to meet client needs.
• An inquisitive mind with the confidence to check and challenge.

Remuneration Package – benefits include:  

• Competitive salary  
• Annual performance bonus  
• Private healthcare  
• Pension  
• 25 days annual leave