Senior Urban Design Officer

Senior Urban Design Officer

Location: Oxford
Type: Temporary, Full-time
Pay Range: £21.47 per hourWe are seeking a dedicated Senior Urban Design Officer to join a dynamic team within a public sector organisation focused on planning and sustainable development services. This role is crucial in shaping the urban landscape of Oxford, ensuring high-quality, distinctive places that reflect the city's unique character.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities:

Provide expert urban design advice across a range of planning applications and projects, including pre-application advice.
Assist in the preparation of design policies to align with the council's strategic objectives.
Lead and coordinate design projects that promote urban quality and sustainability.
Facilitate the design review process, including meetings and communications with the Design Review Panel.
Prepare and present specialist evidence for appeals, advocating for design excellence.
Engage in benchmarking and problem-solving to advocate best practices in urban design within a collaborative environment.
Plan and prioritise work effectively to meet deadlines and targets.
Conduct research and analysis to inform key urban design and regeneration projects.
Act as a service ambassador, representing urban design priorities at internal and external meetings.
Undertake site visits and stakeholder meetings as required.Required Skills & Qualifications:

Degree in urban design or a related field.
Membership or progression towards membership in relevant professional bodies such as the Urban Design Group, RTPI, or RIBA.
Proven experience in urban design, particularly with major development proposals.
Strong ability to influence and build positive, effective relationships with both internal and external stakeholders.
Demonstrable problem-solving skills with a capacity to make balanced, evidence-based recommendations.
Proficiency in IT and familiarity with the UK planning system and current planning laws.
Experience in presenting to committees and working with elected members.Desirable Skills:

Leadership skills with the ability to guide team members.
Proficiency in CAD, InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator.
Experience in project management, delivering complex projects within budget constraints.
Experience presenting evidence at public inquiries such as Planning Appeals or Local Plan Inquiries