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Town planner : Salary and conditions

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Case studies

  • Range of typical starting salaries for newly qualified planners (graduate or assistant planners): £16,000 - £28,000. Members of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)  (chartered planners) may start higher on the salary scale than non-members.
  • Range of typical salaries for principal planners and team leaders: £29,000 - £45,000.
  • In the public sector, chief planning officers, heads of departments and directors can earn between £55,000 and £80,000, and occasionally more.
  • Public sector employment often includes a generous holiday entitlement and pension scheme. Other benefits may include essential car user allowances, flexible working hours, home-based working and job share and, in London, interest-free season ticket loans.
  • Private sector pay is comparable with public sector pay. The private sector has greater flexibility to offer performance-related pay, profit share and other additional benefits, although annual leave entitlement and pension schemes may be less generous than in the public sector.
  • Working hours vary according to the sector and work levels. Normal working hours apply (e.g. nine to five) in many cases. More senior positions require additional commitment. Flexitime is often available, particularly in the public sector. There may be considerable contact with the public, politicians and pressure groups, which may on occasion involve evening or weekend meetings.
  • The work is largely office-based, but many planners make site visits, meet clients and attend external meetings.
  • The male/female ratio is generally evenly balanced.
  • Career breaks and job shares are possible.
  • Self-employment or freelance work is an option for experienced planners. A specialism can help you stand out from competitors, although it is important to have a diverse client base to maximise opportunities for income.
  • Jobs are available in most areas of the UK as every local authority employs planners. Planning consultancies are also located throughout the UK.
  • Travel within a working day to meetings or site visits can form part of the job, but overnight absence from home is rarely necessary. Overseas work may be required occasionally with some consultancies.
 
AGCAS
Written by AGCAS editors
Date: 
December 2009
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