Application
Complete the online application form on Civil Service Jobs which requires the following information:
-
A CV: The CV section lets you share your job history. List your jobs, how long you worked at each, and briefly describe your roles and duties. Make sure to show how your experience matches the essential criteria of the job you're applying for. Type or paste this information into the 'Employment History' box in the online application. You can't attach your CV.
-
A Personal Statement (750 words max): The personal statement lets you explain why you're a good fit for the job in more detail. Use it to show how you meet the essential criteria listed in our advert.
-
A Statement against the Lead Sift Criteria (250 words max): This statement should give evidence against the Lead Sift Criteria listed below.
If there are many applications, we might use a lead sift. This means we'll first check if you meet the key requirement listed below. If you don't, we won't review the rest of your application.
-
Experience of interpreting legislation and applying processes and policy guidance to a decision making process.
All shortlisted candidates will be advised of the outcome shortly afterwards.
Interview
If you are shortlisted, you will:
-
Be asked to attend an interview to have a more in-depth discussion about your experience and suitability for the role
-
Interviews will be a blend of behaviour, strength and experience questions
Candidates who pass the shortlist stage will receive full assessment details with their interview invitations.
Other Information
Shortlist Date: 17th June 2026
Interview Date: W/C 29th June 2026
Interviews will be held remotely using MS Teams. The interview will not be recorded or retained, other than usual interview protocol and in line with Civil Service Jobs privacy notice.
Reserve list
A reserve list may be held for a period of 9 months from which further appointments can be made.
Future Matches
Candidates who demonstrate strong potential and future readiness but score just below the required level at interview may be considered for alternative positions. These roles may be at a lower grade but align with their skills and offer opportunities for growth.
Merit list order
We appoint in merit list order, starting with any permanent appointments followed by any fixed term appointments.
We encourage all candidates to make themselves familiar with the role and what we will be assessing you against which is detailed in the Person Specification.
ID and Documents
If the job needs specific qualifications or memberships and you get the job, you'll need to send scanned or photographed images of them before you start.
We must check that any successful candidates are allowed to work for the Civil Service before we employ them. If successful, you will be asked to do a right to work check using identity document validation technology (IDVT) through the services of an Identity Service Provider (IDSP), Civil Service Jobs. If we are unable to confirm your right to work and through the IDVT we will need to do a manual right to work check using original documents with you in person.
Visa Sponsorship
The Planning Inspectorate cannot offer Visa sponsorship to candidates, we do not hold a Visa sponsorship licence.
Disability Confident Interview scheme/Reasonable Adjustments
The Civil Service values diversity and offers equal opportunities. We have a Disability Confident Interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the job's minimum criteria. We will also provide reasonable adjustments to all where possible. For more information please see Reasonable Adjustments , Civil Service Careers.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
