Senior/Associate Planner and Planner

Employer: Black Box Planning Ltd Contract Type: Flexible Location: Bristol or Exeter Job Level: Senior/Associate Planner and Planner Closing Date: 30 th September Function: Town Planning Sector: Private Consultancy Specialism: EIA Experience Preferable Overview Black Box Planning is growing, and were looking for an experienced Senior/Associate Planner and Planner to join our team. These are flexible roles, based in either our Bristol or Exeter office, with part-time or full-time options. Well shape the positions around the right people the only non-negotiables for the senior position are at least five years experience in planning and solid EIA expertise. Were a team of 11 planners led by Directors Conor Flanagan and Ben Read, with a uniquely unsiloed, dynamic approach that sets us apart from other consultancies. That means youll be involved in a wide range of projects, backed by a highly experienced and approachable team. Our client base is extensive and long-standing, and we pride ourselves on delivering honest, strategic advice while maintaining a strong work-life balance and a great team culture. Its a positive, people-focused environment that makes work genuinely enjoyable. Senior/Associate Responsibilities Lead and deliver planning strategy across a wide range of projects, including residential, mixed-use, commercial schemes, materials and waste, and more Manage and coordinate the EIA process, including screening, scoping, and drafting or overseeing the production of Environmental Statements Engage directly with clients, consultants, and local authorities to drive high-quality outcomes Contribute to project direction from early-stage input through to delivery Support and mentor junior colleagues, sharing knowledge and encouraging development Play a role in shaping our future, including input into team growth and business development Planner Responsibilities Support senior team members on a wide range of planning projects. Assist with client enquiries and help prepare planning advice. Carry out research, desktop assessments, and site visits. Draft planning documents, including design and access statements, planning statements, appeal documents and local plan representations. Liaise with consultants (e.g. heritage, environmental) and help review reports. Help explain planning issues in clear, straightforward language. Attend planning committees, hearings, and public meetings alongside the senior team. Stay up to date with planning policy and legislation. Maintain accurate records, including timesheets where required. Experience Were looking for someone who brings: Senior/Associate - At least 5 years experience in planning, ideally in consultancy (but were open-minded) Full RTPI membership Senior/Associate - Solid EIA expertise, including managing the process and contributing to Environmental Statements Experience across a variety of project types ideally including strategic residential and either waste or renewables Strategic confidence and technical depth someone who understands the planning process thoroughly and can form clear, evidence-led recommendations An ability to balance risk and opportunity knowing when to advise against a scheme, and when to pursue one with conviction and creativity Independent thinking, sound judgement, and the professional confidence to contribute meaningfully within a team of experienced planners At Black Box Planning, were all about the people. Were flexible on the roles because for us, its more about finding the right person than ticking every box. If you're a talented planner with drive and energy, wed love to hear from you. Apply here with your CV, or get in touch directly via liesel.corp(at)blackboxplanning.co.uk for an informal chat. TPBN1_UKTJ

Created: 2025-09-05