Associate Planner / Associate Partner - Consents
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Associate level Planner or Associate Partner with experience of Planning Act 2008 procedures to join a leading UK Infrastructure Consents team delivering some of the nation’s most complex and high-profile infrastructure and renewable energy projects. You will ideally be based in Leeds, London, or Birmingham and seeking hybrid flexible working.
Our client’s fast-growing team is already at the forefront of Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) across multiple sectors — including rail, mass transit, road, power generation, high-voltage transmission, and renewable energy. With a strong pipeline of major infrastructure and clean energy schemes, you’ll be part of an ambitious, well-respected consultancy shaping the UK’s transition to net zero.
About the Team:
The Consents team has a proven track record advising on a broad range of infrastructure projects across multiple consent regimes — including DCOs, TWAOs, Section 36, and TCPA. They have successfully managed and submitted four DCOs, a multi-billion-pound TWAO, and numerous renewable TCPA applications, with several further projects now entering their NSIP journey.
With team members among the few professionals in the UK to have delivered DCO consents from inception through to approval, they are well positioned as a leading provider of infrastructure planning and consents services across the country.
You’ll work with some of the UK’s most prominent infrastructure and energy clients — including Network Rail, National Highways, and National Grid — as well as leading renewable energy developers and investors, helping deliver projects that contribute to the UK’s national clean energy ambitions.
What You’ll Do:
Deliver expert planning and consents advice across a diverse portfolio of infrastructure projects.Manage and oversee major DCO, TWAO, and TCPA submissions, working collaboratively with technical specialists and stakeholders.Lead project teams, ensuring high-quality outputs, effective budgeting, and on-time delivery.Engage with clients, local authorities, and statutory bodies to navigate complex planning processes.Contribute to business growth through networking, thought leadership, seminars, and industry events.Mentor junior team members and support their professional development.
What We’re Looking For:
A chartered planner (MRTPI or equivalent), or a professional with extensive experience in planning and consents within infrastructure sectors.Proven understanding of the Planning Act 2008 and related consent regimes.Strong technical, analytical, and written communication skills, with the ability to manage large, multi-disciplinary project teams.Experience within consultancy or local authority environments, ideally with exposure to rail, transport, utilities, or renewable energy.A collaborative, commercial mindset and enthusiasm for delivering high-quality, client-focused outcomes.Willingness to travel across the UK as projects require.
Why Join?
The company offer a highly competitive salary and a market-leading benefits package, including:Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance.The ability to purchase additional annual leave.Health cash plans, cycle-to-work schemes, gym memberships, and other flexible lifestyle benefits.Excellent opportunities for career progression, including the potential for partnership.A supportive environment that encourages innovation, collaboration, and personal growth.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join one of the UK’s fastest-growing infrastructure planning teams — working on nationally significant projects that will define the future of transport, energy, and sustainable development.
About Us
Climate17 is a purpose-led, international Renewable Energy & Sustainability recruitment firm. We provide specialist talent acquisition services to organisations seeking to reduce their environmental footprint, as well as those working towards the decarbonisation of the energy sector.
Inclusive Application Process
Climate17 is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We believe there is no solution to climate change without people. We aim to increase diversity across all areas and as such, we are committed to partnering with clients and candidates to create an inclusive and sustainable regenerative world.