Planning Consultant

Planning consultants manage and direct projects related to transport developments. They can undertake work including project design and implementation, solution idea generation, development of strategies and policies, modelling and preparation of research studies. They are also responsible for managing project teams, ensuring that staff work together and that deadlines are met. They may also take charge of any financial responsibilities associated with a project.

Planning consultants have to be aware of current issues, such as health and safety, social inclusion and environmental issues as these can impact on planning activities and project objectives.

Activities for planning consultants can include projects such as new passenger transport terminals/hubs, introducing new infrastructures or improving road layouts. Planning consultants also work to encourage the use of alternative methods of transport instead of private vehicles.

Planning consultants can earn from around £28000, up to £40000. More senior consultants can earn more than this. Salary will also increase with experience.
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Working environment

Most work for a planning consultants is office-based, though they can also spend time visiting sites and clients.

Standard hours for transport planners are 37 to 40 hours a week. This can increase when there are large projects or if there are additional meetings to attend.
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Skills and interests

Planning consultants need to have a detailed interest in transport and the effects that transport systems can have on society economically, environmentally and socially.

Planning consultants need to be skilled in:
- idea generation; finding solutions to problems and assessing their potential
- people management
- communication, both verbal and written
- using information technology including specific planning software tools
- project management and organisation
- financial management.
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Entry into the role

Planning consultants tend to work their way up from the position of transport planner. They have to have sufficient experience and understanding of transport planning in order to fulfil the role successfully.

Vacancies for transport planning jobs are advertised in local and national press, on company websites and through specialist recruitment agencies. Planning consultants work for local or national government, development agencies, transport companies or specialist consultancies.
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Opportunities

Planning consultants can progress to become senior consultants. They may also look to develop their own consultancy businesses either as an independent consultant, or by starting up a new company employing planning technicians and transport planners.

It is important for planning consultants to keep their knowledge up to date - there are industry specific continuing professional development courses available which they can attend.
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