Overview

Black Box Planning is growing, and we’re looking for an experienced Senior/Associate Planner and Planner to join our team. These are flexible roles, based in either our Bristol or Exeter office, with part-time or full-time options. We’ll shape the positions around the right people — the only non-negotiables for the senior position are at least five years’ experience in planning and solid EIA expertise. We’re a team of 11 planners led by Directors Conor Flanagan and Ben Read, with a uniquely unsiloed, dynamic approach that sets us apart from other consultancies. That means you’ll be involved in a wide range of projects, backed by a highly experienced and approachable team. Our client base is extensive and long-standing, and we pride ourselves on delivering honest, strategic advice while maintaining a strong work-life balance and a great team culture. It’s a positive, people-focused environment that makes work genuinely enjoyable.

Senior/Associate Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver planning strategy across a wide range of projects, including residential, mixed-use, commercial schemes, materials and waste, and more
• Manage and coordinate the EIA process, including screening, scoping, and drafting or overseeing the production of Environmental Statements
• Engage directly with clients, consultants, and local authorities to drive high-quality outcomes
• Contribute to project direction from early-stage input through to delivery
• Support and mentor junior colleagues, sharing knowledge and encouraging development
• Play a role in shaping our future, including input into team growth and business development

Planner Responsibilities

• Support senior team members on a wide range of planning projects
• Assist with client enquiries and help prepare planning advice
• Carry out research, desktop assessments, and site visits
• Draft planning documents, including design and access statements, planning statements, appeal documents and local plan representations
• Liaise with consultants (e.g. heritage, environmental) and help review reports
• Help explain planning issues in clear, straightforward language
• Attend planning committees, hearings, and public meetings alongside the senior team
• Stay up to date with planning policy and legislation
• Maintain accurate records, including timesheets where required

Experience

• Senior/Associate - At least 5 years’ experience in planning, ideally in consultancy (but we’re open-minded)
• Full RTPI membership
• Senior/Associate - Solid EIA expertise, including managing the process and contributing to Environmental Statements
• Experience across a variety of project types — ideally including strategic residential and either waste or renewables
• Strategic confidence and technical depth — someone who understands the planning process thoroughly and can form clear, evidence-led recommendations
• An ability to balance risk and opportunity — knowing when to advise against a scheme, and when to pursue one with conviction and creativity
• Independent thinking, sound judgement, and the professional confidence to contribute meaningfully within a team of experienced planners

Application

At Black Box Planning, we’re all about the people. We’re flexible on the roles because for us, it’s more about finding the right person than ticking every box.

If you\'re a talented planner with drive and energy, we’d love to hear from you. Apply here with your CV, or get in touch directly via liesel.corp@blackboxplanning.co.uk for an informal chat.