We are seeking to appoint a Planning Technician – Data to join our Planning Data, Performance, Tech and Trees Team, for a Fixed Term of 12 months. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in improving the quality, accuracy and accessibility of planning-related data across a range of services.
The role will support the delivery of statutory planning functions and major digital transformation programmes, including the migration of Local Land Charges data to HM Land Registry and the implementation of Dorset Council’s Online Planning Register. You will help ensure that planning, building control, enforcement and land charges data is accurate, complete and maintained in line with national standards, legislation and council requirements.
You will undertake specialist data preparation, cleansing, validation and maintenance activities, working closely with colleagues across Planning and related services. Fast-paced and detail-focused, this role is integral to improving data quality, supporting compliance and enabling customers to access high-quality digital planning information.
What you'll be doing
- Undertaking detailed data cleansing, validation and preparation activities across planning, building control, enforcement and local land charges datasets
- Supporting the migration of Local Land Charges data to HM Land Registry's national digital service
- Preparing and validating datasets for the successful implementation and operation of the Online Planning Register
- Identifying data quality issues, discrepancies and gaps, and working with colleagues to investigate and resolve them
- Carrying out complex data tasks, including spatial data checks, mapping and plotting where required
- Maintaining accurate records and contributing to data quality monitoring and progress reporting
Our Planning Technicians undertake a wide range of specialist data management and quality assurance activities that support the effective delivery of Planning Services. Reporting to the Data Performance Team Leader, the role is varied and interesting and requires someone who is organised, accurate and able to manage competing priorities within a busy environment.
The experience, knowledge and skills required for this role are detailed within the Person Specification. In summary, we are seeking an individual with strong analytical and organisational skills, excellent attention to detail and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. You will be confident working with large datasets, committed to maintaining high standards of data quality and able to communicate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders at all levels.
IT systems used include Microsoft Office applications, Teams, GIS and planning-related databases and digital platforms. Training will be provided for service-specific systems; however, a good working knowledge of Outlook, Word and Excel is essential. The role is primarily workstation-based and involves working with a range of digital systems and records.
About you
You'll have experience of working with data, records or information systems and be able to demonstrate a methodical approach to maintaining accuracy and quality. Experience within a planning, local government, land charges or regulatory environment would be advantageous.
Essential requirements include:
• Experience of working with data, records management or information systems
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to data accuracy and integrity
• Ability to analyse information, identify discrepancies and resolve issues
• Good organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities
• Experience using Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel
• Effective communication and customer service skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
• Willingness to learn new systems, processes and legislation
• Understanding of confidentiality, data protection and information governance requirements
Why join us?
• Involvement in the migration of Local Land Charges data
• Supportive team environment with opportunities to develop specialist data and planning knowledge
• Flexible working arrangements where possible
• Opportunity to make a real difference by improving the quality and accessibility of planning information for residents, businesses and partners across Dorset.