INTERNAL ONLY

Location: Penrith
Contract Type: Permanent

About this opportunity

An excellent opportunity has arisen to join Westmorland and Furness Council’s Technical Services Team as a Technical Services Team Leader, supporting the smooth and efficient operation of our Planning and Building Control functions.

The Technical Services team is responsible for the registration and validation of planning and building control applications, consultation, document management, and the maintenance of key records including those for street naming and numbering, and planning obligations. It also supports the monitoring and administration of Section 106 agreements and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). By ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of systems, data, and statutory procedures, the team plays a critical role in enabling timely decision-making, maintaining transparency, and supporting high-quality service delivery.

As Technical Services Team Leader you will be responsible for managing a team of technical officers, providing critical support to the Planning, Building Control, and Street Naming & Numbering teams. Reporting to the Technical Services Manager, this role ensures the efficient delivery of technical services, overseeing workflow, supporting team development, maintaining high standards of service across the team and enhancing operational effectiveness to support the organisation’s planning and regulatory objectives.

Who we are looking for…

We’re seeking a highly organised and proactive individual to lead a supportive and collaborative team committed to helping shape the growth and development of Westmorland and Furness.

You’ll bring:

• Considerable experience in a technical or administrative role within planning, regulatory, or public services, with experience in a supervisory or team leader capacity.

• Knowledge of technical support functions related to planning, building control, or similar regulatory environments.
• Proficient in using relevant IT systems, databases, and software applications to support technical and administrative functions.
• Ability to identify and implement improvements in administrative processes and workflows.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with team members and other departments.
• Strong analytical skills, with experience in addressing operational challenges and implementing practical solutions.

What can we offer you!

Working at Westmorland and Furness Council you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other various perks and discounts schemes. For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council and what we can offer you, please visit our Careers site. Our benefits | Careers (westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk)

Would you like to find out more?

For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the below attachments:

• Post Specification
• Role Profile

If you have any queries about this role or would like an informal chat about this opportunity, then please contact Dawn Mason, Technical Services Manager, via email on dawn.mason@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk to arrange an informal conversation.

Application and Interview information

Closing date: 31 May 2026

Interview date: 01 June 2026

We are currently operating both in-person and virtual interviews. Interview details such as venue/timings will be shared with successful candidates, following the shortlisting process. If you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss this with you.

If you experience any technical difficulties applying for this role, please contact the HR Systems Team at HR.Systems@cumbria.gov.uk.

Safer Recruitment & DBS

At Westmorland and Furness Council we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and we expect all workers, employees and volunteers to share our commitment.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Westmorland and Furness Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from everyone and work to promote an inclusive, supportive culture that values and celebrates our differences.

As a Disability Confident Leader, disabled applicants, who meet the essential criteria of this job, are guaranteed an interview.

We also offer guaranteed interviews to Armed Forces personnel and veterans and those in care or care experienced and under 24 years old (someone who has been looked after by a local authority at any point, for any length of time, e.g. foster care, residential care, or under the guardianship of a local authority) that meet the essential criteria for the role.