Transport Planning Officer

North Somerset Council • Weston, FL

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

North Somerset Council is seeking a Transport Planning Officer to join its Home to School Transport Service, which plans, procures, coordinates and monitors transport for eligible children and young people across North Somerset. The team works with schools, colleges, families, transport operators and Council services to provide safe, efficient and good-value arrangements, meet statutory duties and support sustainable travel.

The post provides professional advice and support for planning, delivering and developing transport services and related projects. The officer contributes to transport policy development, service improvement, contract management and sustainable transport delivery, while ensuring services meet corporate standards and relevant legislation. The role includes managing medium-sized projects and budgets.

This position is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check. A valid driving licence and own transport, or an alternative suitable method of travel, is essential. The role is a Flexible Worker position: typically 2–3 days in the office, with work split between home and the office according to tasks. More office attendance may be needed during induction, and working arrangements can be discussed.

Requirements

• Degree-level education or equivalent in transport planning, education or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience working in transport, passenger transport, education transport or a related service area, with knowledge of transport legislation, policy and operational practices.
• Strong analytical and organisational skills, including the ability to prepare reports and make evidence-based recommendations.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage effectively with families, schools, colleges, transport providers, elected members and partner organisations.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, including the ability to analyse complex and sensitive situations, identify practical solutions and make recommendations that balance individual circumstances with statutory duties, policies and available resources.
• Ability to communicate with empathy, professionalism and sensitivity when supporting children, young people and families, including people with SEND and other vulnerabilities, while applying Council policies and procedures consistently and fairly.
• A valid driving licence and own transport, or an alternative suitable method of travel.

Nice To Haves

• Experience of contract management, procurement processes or transport scheduling.
• Experience using mapping, GIS, transport databases or other transport planning systems.

Responsibilities

• Provide policy advice, analytical input and technical support for transport services and projects.
• Initiate, develop and review travel policies, strategies and service improvements that support sustainable travel objectives.
• Assist with procurement tendering, contract management and performance monitoring of travel services.
• Prepare reports, briefings and recommendations for senior officers, elected members, forums and committees.
• Manage medium-sized projects and budgets that contribute to service development and continuous improvement.
• Support the planning, delivery and development of Home to School Transport services.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Local Government Pension.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Inclusive staff groups, including Carers, Disabled, LGBTQ+, REACH and Young Staff Forums.
• Opportunity to purchase up to an additional 10 days of annual leave each year.
• Dedicated in-house Wellbeing Team.
• Salary sacrifice Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level