Graduate Planner – Basildon District Council

About the Role

Essex County Council (ECC) are delighted to be supporting Basildon Borough Council (BBC) to recruit a Graduate Planner on an initial temporary basis of 3–6 months. Please note the role will be based in the office 2 days per week.

You will join Basildon Borough Council’s Planning Strategy and Implementation team, working with friendly and supportive colleagues on a wide variety of planning work relating to the future growth of the borough, with a particular emphasis on supporting the preparation of a new Local Plan.

Role Summary

• Employer: Basildon Borough Council (supported by Essex County Council)
• Contract: Temporary, Full Time (initial 3–6 months)
• Pay: £17.00 – £20.00 per hour (PAYE)
• Location: Basildon
• Office Presence: 2 days per week
• Closing Date: 15 August 2025

Why Basildon?

Basildon is alive with opportunity and has the ingredients to be one of the most successful and desirable places in the South East. As the largest economy in the Thames Estuary outside London, we are proud of our achievements and are driving inclusive, sustainable growth to deliver opportunity and prosperity for local people and businesses, access to quality homes, vibrant town centres, and an enhanced local environment.

The Role

In this role you will support the delivery of the new Local Plan and broader planning policy work. Initial tasks will focus on preparing for the Regulation 18 consultation stage later this year. You may also be involved in other policy matters, including neighbourhood planning, as well as providing planning policy advice and information related to development proposals.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the preparation of evidence and policies for the new Local Plan.
• Support preparations for the Regulation 18 consultation stage.
• Contribute to other policy matters, including neighbourhood planning.
• Provide planning policy advice and information on development proposals.
• Work collaboratively across the planning function, including Development Management and Enforcement teams.
• Attend developer meetings and planning committees as required.

The Experience You Will Bring

• Recent graduate in Town Planning, Geography, or a related discipline.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• A collaborative team player with decisiveness and ambition for the borough.
• Ability to support effective service delivery and discharge important statutory functions.

Safeguarding and Pre-employment Vetting

Basildon Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults and expects all employees, contractors, and volunteers to share this commitment to prevent abuse, harm, or exploitation. The Council applies a robust recruitment vetting process. If you are successful, you will need to undergo a pre-employment vetting procedure.

What You Should Do Next

If you are interested in finding out more about this role, please apply online. For an informal discussion or if you have any queries, please get in touch with the recruitment team.