We are seeking passionate graduates to join us at Bidwells in 2024, to be part of a better future. We work collaboratively across our locations, but potential base locations include Cambridge, Oxford, Milton Keynes and Norwich.
Our work in multidisciplinary teams gives us unparalleled insight into the dynamics of commercial, residential and rural development. As a result, we take a commercial view of all aspects of the planning process. Clients find this hugely valuable in conjunction with our in-depth planning expertise plus the array of resources we offer as a large firm. Our work has ranged from attaining planning permissions for mixed-use new settlements through to the delivery of Private Rented Sector (PRS) accommodation; new education facilities through to horse-racing facilities; research and development campuses through to business parks; new homes through to conversion of heritage assets. Our clients range from major house builders to leisure organisations, developers to universities, housing associations to private investors.
What You’ll Do
You'll get involved with everything, as we believe that is the best way for you to learn:
- Working as part of a multi-skilled planning team including specialists in Heritage, Socio-Economics and Environmental Impact Assessments.
- Supporting the delivery of a range of development projects through the planning application or Local Plan process, from small scale proposals right through to strategic scale developments, giving you a variety of roles and experiences
- Undertaking planning appraisals including site visits, , analysis of local and national policy and interpretation of material planning considerations
- Managing engagement with local planning authorities, communities and other stakeholders
- Providing commercial and specific planning advice to clients
What You’ll Achieve
You'll get the chance to grow with us while we support you preparing for your route to Chartered Membership of the RTPI. You’ll also be enrolled on our 2-year graduate development programme, building a strong foundation for your career in the planning profession.
Part One: a programme that will involve you in a range of skill development activities. You will develop beyond your technical expertise, building a strong foundation for your career in the planning profession. Working with colleagues from multiple disciplines and locations, you'll focus on personal effectiveness and impact, commercial and financial awareness and client delivery skills.
Part Two: RTPI APC preparation programme. This includes seminars, development planning and individual coaching. You'll have management support, mentorship and team support to ensure you're ready.
The Package
- Discounted gym & health club memberships.
- Annual Contribution to dental, optical and alternative therapies
- Confidential support helpline with access to free counselling
- Dental and Private medical insurance.
- Paid for on- the- job training
- Tuition reimbursement
- Paid Professional memberships
- Hybrid working
- Enhanced holiday allowance
- Winter shut down between Christmas and new year
- Bonus scheme
- Discount with online and instore retailers
- Travel loan
- On site showers, electric car charging, car parking, feminine care products, refreshments.
- Smartphone
- Volunteering entitlement
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and shared parental leave
- Enhanced adoption and Surrogacy Leave
- Paid Fertility Leave
Agile working has been part of the way we work for many years. Employees are empowered and trusted to have more choice about where they carry out their work, subject to them being able to work effectively and agreeing their working arrangements with their manager. The team and clients should always be put before individual requirements. A hybrid working pattern has been adopted at Bidwells which will include a blend of office and home working.
Requirements
It's important to us that you are working towards, or already hold, an RTPI accredited degree although applicants with non-cognate degrees but relevant work experience who can demonstrate a passion for a career in planning will be considered. You must have achieved a 2:1 or above.
We also look for candidates who embrace teamwork, and enjoy taking responsibility, so please make sure you tell us about these in your application!
Most of our graduate roles involve being out and about, visiting sites and meeting clients. Therefore, we ask that applicants have a full driving license and access to their own car. However, we know that this may not be possible for all individuals and if this is the case, we ask that you do highlight this to us so that we can explore options with you.