Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Graduate Officer

Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Graduate Officer | Kent County Council | Maidstone

Intro

Are you a recent graduate looking to make a tangible impact on the landscape of one of the UK’s largest and most complex counties? Kent County Council (KCC) is looking for a Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Graduate Officer to join their award-winning career development program. This isn’t just an entry-level job; it’s a launchpad into the heart of local government decision-making. You will help navigate the balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability, ensuring that as Kent grows, it has the schools, roads, and green spaces required for a thriving future.

What you’ll be doing

• Strategic Response Coordination: Support the drafting and coordination of KCC’s formal responses to Local Plans, neighbourhood plans, and high-profile planning applications.

• NSIP Involvement: Assist in managing responses to Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs)—the large-scale energy, transport, or water projects that define regional infrastructure.

• Growth Support: Work with senior planners to promote high-quality housing and economic development across the county.

• Infrastructure Mapping: Contribute to the long-term planning and data analysis required to identify where Kent needs new infrastructure to support its growing population.

• Member Liaison: Operate within a member-led council environment, learning how policy and political priorities shape the built environment.

Why Join the KCC Graduate Programme?

This role is designed to transition you from an academic environment into a professional expert. The package includes:

• Embedded Apprenticeship: Gain a recognized professional qualification alongside your daily work through a structured development pathway.

• Continuous Learning: Full access to KCC’s Digital Skills Hub and extensive e-learning library.

• Mentorship: Dedicated support from both your Line Manager and the specialized Graduate Team.

• Networking: Early access to professional planning networks and internal council groups that will be vital for your long-term career progression.

About Strategic Planning in Kent

Kent is currently at the center of major UK infrastructure conversations. From the proposed Lower Thames Crossing to massive offshore wind energy connections, the county is a hub for strategic development.

In this role, you will learn how a “tier-one” local authority influences the planning process. You won’t just be looking at individual buildings; you’ll be looking at how entire communities function. You’ll gain a deep understanding of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and how it translates into the “Growth without Gridlock” philosophy that defines Kent’s infrastructure strategy.

Requirements at a Glance

• Education: A recent degree (ideally in Planning, Geography, Sustainability, or a related field).

• Skills: Excellent written communication, analytical thinking, and a passion for sustainable development.

• Mindset: Proactive, organized, and ready to learn within a fast-paced, professional environment.

Details at a Glance

• Employer: Kent County Council

• Location: Maidstone (Sessions House) / Hybrid

• Contract: Graduate Programme (Fixed Term with structured progression)

• Closing Date: Apply as soon as possible (KCC graduate roles are highly competitive).