Job Title: Principal Town Planner Location: Bristol Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading infrastructure and environmental consultancy driving the UK and Ireland closer to Net Zero. Their integrated team delivers expert planning, land access, EIA, and geospatial services, unlocking the consents needed for critical utility and infrastructure projects. Due to continued growth, the business is looking for a Principal Planner to strengthen its Environmental and Planning division. This is a key opportunity to lead on complex projects, influence strategy, and shape the future of utility and infrastructure development across the UK. The Role As Principal Planner, you will manage a diverse portfolio of planning projects, including major capital schemes, development appraisals, and consent strategies for nationally significant infrastructure. Working across sectors such as energy, water, and telecoms, you will guide clients through the full planning process:preparing applications, managing environmental inputs, and ensuring successful outcomes. Key Responsibilities * Manage and deliver a range of planning projects from feasibility through to consent * Provide technical planning advice on complex sites, including those with environmental sensitivities * Prepare and submit planning applications and supporting documents * Build and maintain strong working relationships with clients, consultants, and local planning authorities * Lead or support a small team, mentoring junior staff and offering line management as required * Represent the planning team at site visits, meetings, and stakeholder consultations * Contribute to business development by identifying new opportunities and cross:selling services * Maintain up:to:date knowledge of planning legislation and best practice About You * Degree in Town Planning or a related discipline * Chartered Member of the RTPI (MRTPI) * Proven experience delivering planning projects across infrastructure, utilities, or rural sectors * Strong report writing, analytical, and presentation skills * Comfortable managing client relationships and contributing to project strategy * Commercial awareness and a solutions:focused mindset * Knowledge of GIS and environmental disciplines desirable * Full UK driving licence required Benefits Include * Annual bonus scheme * 25 days annual leave + your birthday off * Vitality Health Membership (private healthcare, gym discounts, etc.) * Flexible working to support work/life balance * Company pension scheme * Life insurance (4x salary) * Free on:site parking (non:city offices) Interested? Contact Josh on or email