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- Tasks: Ensure safe, well-maintained homes by inspecting construction projects and providing technical support.
- Company: Join Ashford Borough Council, dedicated to community welfare and quality housing.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, generous leave, and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on residents' lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must have ONC/HNC in Construction or equivalent experience in building maintenance and contract supervision.
- Other info: We welcome applications from the Armed Forces Community and offer a stable work environment.
The predicted salary is between 27900 - 31600 £ per year.
Location: Ashford, Kent
Salary: £33,951 to £37,638 pa depending on skills and experience, Plus lease car subsidy or cash alternative of £2,080 pa
Job Type: Full time, Permanent
Working Hours: 37 Hours Per Week
Closing Date: 16th June 2025
We are seeking a Clerk of Works to join our team to play a vital role in ensuring residents have safe and well-maintained homes. Primarily you will be responsible for providing on-site technical support to contractors and producing progress reports for the Council's contracts team. This role requires close collaboration with contractors, colleagues, and external stakeholders to maintain compliance with relevant housing policies and procedures. You will be responsible for inspecting works against specifications, ensuring quality standards are met, and monitoring defects along with:
- Inspections of new builds and refurbishment projects, including energy efficiency and decarbonisation programmes.
- Providing reports on progress, compliance, and site conditions.
- Conducting health and safety inspections in accordance with Construction Design Management regulations.
- Assisting in contractual administration tasks and monitoring project valuations.
- Attending project meetings, taking minutes, and distributing information.
- Advising teams on building specifications, repairs, and compliance matters.
About you: To be competent in this role it is essential that you have an ONC/HNC in Construction or equivalent, or substantial multi-trade supervisory experience, along with having:
- Strong ability to diagnose building-related defects across multiple trade disciplines.
- Experience in building maintenance, contract supervision, and dealing with contractors.
- Knowledge of construction technology, materials, and legal frameworks.
- Excellent communication and report-writing skills.
It would be advantageous if you already have Membership in the Institute of Clerk of Works, a familiarity with asset database systems and contract management and/or previous local authority or housing association experience. You will be required to travel around the borough so you will need to have a full UK driving license and the ability to work at height using ladders/scaffolding.
Benefits: Hybrid Working - We are an organisation that puts people first and understands how important employee wellbeing is. We want to help you to balance your working life and home life and offer flexible ways of working to help structure your life in a positive and productive way; both at home and in the office. This maximises personal development and collaborative working. Competitive remuneration package - We offer an excellent salary linked pension scheme, generous annual leave with flexi time, free life insurance, supportive relocation package and opportunities for training and development.
Additional Information: We welcome applications from the Armed Forces Community. With devolution news and talks evolving across the country for local authorities, we understand that there may be some uncertainty for those currently serving within the sector. Although Kent and Medway have not been included in the Devolution Priority Programme, discussions continue in this area. Kent, Medway and all District and Borough Councils in the South East will continue to work closely with each other to deliver vital services to our communities. This is an exciting, but stable time to join our organisation. Ashford Borough Council recognises the need to ensure the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults when they come into contact with the services we provide. To find out further information about the role and to view the full job description, please visit the council's website. Please click the APPLY button and you will be redirected to the council's website to complete your application.
Candidates With the Relevant Experience or Job Titles Of; Building Site Manager, Works Inspector, Site Manager, Site Inspector, Construction Site Manager, Inspector, Construction, Clerk of Works, Building Controller, Site Management may also be considered for this role.
Clerk of Works employer: Ashford Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Ashford Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Clerk of Works
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific housing policies and procedures relevant to Ashford Borough Council. Understanding these regulations will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to ensuring compliance in your role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the construction and local authority sectors. Attend industry events or join online forums where you can connect with current Clerks of Works or similar roles, as they can provide valuable insights and potentially refer you for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your report-writing skills, as this role requires producing detailed progress reports. Consider creating sample reports based on hypothetical projects to showcase your ability to communicate effectively and meet quality standards.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential interview questions by reviewing common scenarios a Clerk of Works might face, such as dealing with defects or managing contractor relationships. Practising your responses will help you articulate your experience and problem-solving skills confidently.
We think you need these skills to ace Clerk of Works
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Clerk of Works position. Highlight key skills and experiences that align with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experience in construction, contract supervision, and building maintenance. Emphasise your qualifications, such as ONC/HNC in Construction, and any supervisory roles you've held.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your communication skills and explains why you are a good fit for the role. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to diagnose building defects and work with contractors.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have Membership in the Institute of Clerk of Works or experience with asset database systems, make sure to mention these in your application. This can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ashford Borough Council
✨Know Your Technical Stuff
As a Clerk of Works, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of construction technology and building specifications. Brush up on your knowledge of relevant regulations and standards, especially those related to health and safety inspections.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
This role requires excellent communication abilities, so be prepared to discuss how you've effectively collaborated with contractors and stakeholders in the past. Highlight any experience you have in report writing and attending project meetings.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, particularly around diagnosing building-related defects. Think of specific examples from your previous work where you successfully identified and resolved issues.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Council's Policies
Research Ashford Borough Council's housing policies and procedures before the interview. Being knowledgeable about their approach will show your genuine interest in the role and help you align your answers with their values.
