Job Description:

Senior Planning Policy Officer – 6-Month Contract

Location & Work Type

• Location: Scotland
• Job Type: Contract
• Sector: Government Administration

About the Opportunity

We are recruiting on behalf of a Scottish local authority that is looking to hire a Senior Planning Policy Officer.

This is an exciting opportunity to join an established organisation, where you will play a central role in progressing planning policy work and supporting the delivery of the Local Development Plan programme.

About the Client

Our client is a well‑established public sector organisation known for delivering strategic planning policy and driving Local Development Plan programmes in line with national guidance.

The Role

As a Senior Planning Policy Officer, you will be responsible for progressing planning policy work, with a particular focus on supporting the preparation and delivery of the Local Development Plan.

You’ll work closely with internal planning teams, external stakeholders, and consultees to deliver robust, evidence-based policy documents and key Local Development Plan outcomes.

This role suits someone who is detail-oriented, proactive, and confident in their professional judgement, and thrives in a fast-paced public sector environment with statutory deadlines and multiple priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to the preparation of planning policy documents to support the delivery of the Local Development Plan

• Support key workstreams within the Local Development Plan programme, ensuring alignment with statutory requirements

• Review evidence and draft clear, robust planning policy content and supporting documentation

• Prepare consultation materials and contribute to stakeholder engagement processes

• Provide accurate and practical planning policy advice to internal teams and external stakeholders

Requirements

Essential

• Proven experience in planning policy within the UK, ideally within a local authority or public sector environment

• Strong knowledge of the Scottish planning system and Local Development Plan (LDP) process

• Excellent written communication skills with the ability to draft clear planning policy and provide professional advice to stakeholders

Desirable

• Experience supporting consultation processes, evidence gathering, and policy monitoring within a planning policy context

• RTPI membership or working towards accreditation

Why This Role Stands Out

• Opportunity to contribute to a key stage of a Local Development Plan programme

• Collaborative working environment within a Scottish local authority, engaging with a range of internal and external stakeholders

• Ability to play a central role in shaping planning policy and supporting high-profile development work

Application Process

To apply, submit your CV directly through this posting.

A recruitment consultant will review your application and contact shortlisted candidates to discuss the role in more detail.

About Us

Oyster Partnership specialises in recruitment across the built environment, including property, housing, planning, engineering, and public sector services, connecting talent with leading organisations in these markets.

Equal Opportunity Statement

• We are committed to equal opportunities and encourage applications from all backgrounds.