The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Based at: Civic Office, Doncaster
Salary details: Grade 9, £40,778 - £45,092 plus £4,400 market supplement (Pay Award Pending)
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full time, 37 hours per week
Flexible working arrangements: Flexi-time, flexible working requests considered.
Closing date: 2nd August 2026
The City of Doncaster Council is a confident, ambitious organisation which puts improving the life of its residents at the centre of everything we do. You have an opportunity to be part of this in the role of Principal Planning Officer (Development Management).
Are you a planning professional with experience of dealing with major, high-profile developments that will shape the future of a fast-growing and ambitious city?
If so, we have an opportunity for you.
We are looking for two Principal Planning Officers to join the Development Management team to lead on some of the most strategic and complex planning applications in Doncaster. You will play a key role in delivering high-quality development, helping to create sustainable, attractive, and well-designed places.
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced officer to play a key role in the determination and delivery of high-quality development. With considerable experience within Development Management, you will have excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills; you will work well in a team environment, with a challenging but interesting case load. This role is an excellent opportunity for an experienced planner looking to take the next step in their career. As a Principal Planning Officer, you will have the chance to mentor junior colleagues, influence key planning decisions, and gain exposure to some of the most high-profile applications in the city.
You will join a highly skilled and supportive team that embraces innovation and modern ways of working. Our service has been at the forefront of digital planning transformation, giving you the opportunity to work in a forward-thinking environment.
The successful candidate will have the ability to proactively manage their own complex caseloads, collaborate positively with colleagues from across the council, as well as external stakeholders, developers, Elected Members, and the general public. There are also opportunities to act as mentor to other members of the team.
Doncaster is one of the best places to invest in the UK, with ambitious development plans and a strong vision for the future. From large-scale regeneration projects to allocations through our adopted Development Plan, this role offers the chance to shape the city’s landscape and contribute to its long-term success.
This is an excellent opportunity to work in a positive, dedicated, and friendly service, working on interesting and varied projects so if you’re an ambitious planner with experience in managing major planning applications and a strong desire to deliver real, positive change to the area, we want to hear from you.
We value a range of experiences and skills. If you have transferable skills from other roles or voluntary work, we encourage you to apply.
In return for your contribution, we offer:
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Competitive leave entitlement
- Generous local government pension scheme
- Wellbeing support and staff networks
- Development and training opportunities
- Staff discounts and benefits schemes
- More information on benefits can be found in the attached benefits booklet.
Please review the job summary and profile and demonstrate in your application how you meet the required criteria.
Shortlisting will take place week commencing 3rd August 2026 and it is anticipated that interviews will be held during the week commencing 10th August 2026.
We encourage applicants to use their own words to reflect their experience and skills and over-reliance on AI is discouraged.
The Advance Employment Team offers personalised support to help you take your next step into work. From building your CV and getting the right interview skills to accessing a wide range of free courses, the team will help you grow your skills and confidence and find a job you’ll enjoy. Get in touch by email (
[email protected]) or visit the Advance website (www.advancedoncaster.co.uk) to discover the support available.
City of Doncaster Council is committed to meeting the needs of our diverse community and improving quality of life for all. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and adults.
We are a Disability Confident employer and committed to a fully inclusive and accessible recruitment process. We offer interviews to disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria and make reasonable adjustments as required.
