Application
Complete the online application form on Civil Service Jobs which requires the following information:
-
A CV: The CV section is an opportunity for you to detail your career history. It should outline the jobs you have done, the length of time you were employed within each role and a brief description of your role, responsibilities and duties which demonstrate relevance to the role you are applying for against the essential criteria. You must type, or copy and paste into the text box called Employment History within the online application. You cannot attach a copy of your CV.
-
A Personal Statement (750 words max): Please provide a personal statement explaining why you are interested in this position and how your skills, experience, qualifications and achievements make you suitable for the role. You should use this section to demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria listed in the advert, providing specific examples where possible.
In the event of a large number of applications, a lead sift may take place. The following point will be used as the lead criteria when shortlisting if this happens, and if you do not meet the minimum standard the rest of your application will not be assessed.
-
High level of accuracy and attention to detail
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 and strength questions
-
You will be required to complete a competence test at interview which will assess your ability to calculate and interpret financial information.
Candidates who are successful at shortlist stage will be sent full assessment requirements with their interview invitations.
Other Information
Shortlist Date: 14th 18th September 2026
Interview Date: 5th 9th October 2026
Interviews will be held in person at our office in Bristol, 10-minute walk from Temple Meads train station
The Planning Inspectorate does not fund travel and subsistence for candidates to attend interviews.
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.
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
ID and Documents
If specific qualifications/memberships are essential for the role and you are successful, you will be asked to provide accurate scanned or photographed images of the qualifications/memberships that you listed on your application prior to your start date.
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
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. We run a Disability Confident Interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.
To be considered for an interview under the scheme you must:
-
have a disability defined by the Equality Act 2010
-
provide evidence in your application that you meet the minimum criteria in the job description
-
meet all of the qualifications, skills or experience defined as essential
While we will endeavour to provide you with all the appropriate information, you are the expert on your specific requirements so if you require any adjustments, you should consider the information provided about the assessment process and then:
-
Complete the Assistance required section in the Additional requirements page of your application form to tell us what changes or help you might need further on in the recruitment process. The earlier and more clearly you tell us what you need and why you need it, the more likely we are to be able to accommodate you in a timely fashion.
Existing Civil Servants should ensure that they have an in-principle agreement for a loan prior to applying.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
