Policy Planning Officer – Place Directorate – #000B057B1

Job Description

Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council is seeking an experienced Policy Planning Officer to join its Place Directorate on a temporary contract running from 1 June to 4 December 2026. The role pays £20.66–£23.37 per hour and offers hybrid working (2 days in the office, remainder remote), with hours up to 37 per week.

You will provide specialist planning policy advice and support the delivery of the Council’s statutory planning functions, including preparation and monitoring of the Local Plan and associated policy documents. A key requirement is extensive experience of preparing Infrastructure Delivery Plans (IDPs).

Key responsibilities include contributing to the preparation, monitoring and review of planning policies; providing professional advice to colleagues, elected members, developers, and the public; representing the Council at Examination in Public; monitoring changes in national and regional planning legislation; and supporting Development Management with policy input on major applications and pre-application discussions.

Essential requirements: 4–6 years’ experience in planning policy within a local authority or consultancy; strong knowledge of UK planning legislation, policy frameworks, and Local Plan processes; excellent written and verbal communication skills; and strong stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills.

Desirable: experience of Green Belt and open space policy issues; familiarity with Examination in Public procedures.

If you have the relevant planning policy experience and are available from June 2026, please get in touch.

What’s on offer:

* Excellent, competitive pay rates – paid weekly
* Supportive management team with approachable, experienced leaders
* A desirable location with great transport links
* A stable, well-resourced, and encouraging working environment

Why join Semester.co.uk?

* Free ongoing CPD and training opportunities to enhance your skills
* Competitive rates of pay with prompt, reliable payments through our in-house payroll
* Enhanced DBS processing included
* Dedicated, friendly consultant offering tailored support
* Access to a wide range of opportunities in your chosen location

Ready to take the next step? Click ‘Apply’ now to express your interest in this role, or explore other exciting opportunities with Semester.co.uk.