Graduate / Assistant Planner

The Role

This role sits within a specialist Research & Analysis team supporting a wide range of planning projects across both private and public sectors. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting planning applications, appeals, and local plan work
• Conducting demographic, housing, employment, and socio-economic analysis
• Contributing to housing land supply assessments and needs studies
• Assisting with evidence preparation for Local Plan Examinations and Planning Appeals
• Preparing clear, concise reports and presenting findings to internal teams and clients
• Working collaboratively across multidisciplinary project teams

You'll gain exposure to nationally significant planning issues, including housing delivery, Green Belt policy, and economic development.

About You

This role would suit a recent graduate or early-career professional with a background in planning, economics, geography, or a related discipline. You'll bring:

• Strong analytical and numerical skills
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and data handling capability
• Ability to interpret and present complex data clearly
• Excellent written communication skills
• High attention to detail and a methodical approach

Desirable (but not essential):

• Town Planning qualification or relevant experience
• Experience in socio-economic research
• Knowledge of GIS or programming tools
• Understanding of UK planning policy

What's on Offer

• Hybrid and flexible working (core hours model)
• Private healthcare
• Life assurance
• Pension scheme (including salary sacrifice options)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Professional subscription support
• Enhanced family leave policies
• Structured CPD programme with internal and external training
• Clear career progression within a supportive, collaborative environment

Culture & Values

As an employee-owned business, people are at the heart of everything this organisation does. There is a strong focus on:

• Professional development and continuous learning
• Diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity
• Health, wellbeing, and work-life balance
• Delivering positive social and environmental impact

If interested in this position, but perhaps would like to find out more before formally applying, please contact Taylor Smith at [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] Manchester.

[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] promote equality in the workplace and we welcome applications from all suitably skilled or qualified candidates regardless of their sex, race, disability, religion/beliefs, sexual orientation or age. We act as both an employment agency and employment business.