Assistant Planning Officer

There is currently one full-time, fixed term contract post until 22 February 2027, subject to review.

As females are currently known to be under-represented in this job group, in Belfast City Council, applications from this group would be particularly welcome.

And as young people (people under the age of 35), people with a disability and people from minority ethnic communities are currently under-represented in Belfast City Council, applications from these groups would be particularly welcome.

As part of our commitment to equality of opportunity we offer a Guaranteed Interview Scheme (GIS) for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.

Belfast City Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

All applications for employment are considered strictly on the basis of merit.

The Assistant Planning Officer is accountable to a Planning Officer / Senior Planning Officer in the Development Planning and Policy or Development Management Unit as appropriate.

Responsible to a Principal Planning Officer through a Planning Officer / Senior Planning Officer in Development Planning and Policy or Development Management for supporting: policy development; development plans; updating development management policies; reviewing guidance, development of planning frameworks; processing of planning applications; and appeals; enforcement of planning controls and delivery of other planning related functions such as conservation and protection of trees.

To provide support to the team in meeting all statutory requirements and ensuring effective performance whilst supporting training and development for staff to meet the needs of the business and all customers in accordance with best practice standards and other performance measures.

Responsible for assisting with the day-to-day supervision of technical support staff and other staff as required within the Development Planning and Policy or Development Management Units.

The Place and Economy Department drives the future growth, regeneration, and economic development of Belfast and this work aligns with the aims and objectives of the Belfast Agenda and Corporate Plan.  Key areas of responsibility include:

• City Centre Regeneration & Investment – Delivering policies, plans, and projects that shape the future of Belfast.

• Economic Development – Supporting high-growth sectors, small businesses, skills development, and employability.

• Planning & Building Control – Overseeing development management, enforcement, and the Local Development Plan (LDP).

• International Relations & Tourism – Promoting Belfast as a key global destination for investment and culture.

• Major Events & Venues – Managing strategic assets including Waterfront and Ulster Hall, Belfast Zoo, Belfast Castle, and Malone House and supporting the development of culture, heritage and the arts.

This department plays a vital role in:

• Aligning regional and city-wide development strategies.

• Driving inclusive growth through business support and inward investment.

• Enhancing the city's infrastructure, housing, and transport networks.

• Showcasing Belfast as a hub for tourism, heritage, and the arts.

• Overseeing strategic grant programmes to support community and economic initiatives.

The department plays a pivotal role in ensuring Belfast is an attractive, sustainable, and inclusive place to live, work, and visit.