At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage listed building consent and advise on development proposals affecting heritage assets.
- Company: Bath & North East Somerset Council focuses on improving people's lives through heritage conservation.
- Benefits: Flexible working options including homeworking and access to modern office facilities.
- Other info: Positions available include a two-year fixed-term contract and maternity cover.
- Why this job: Contribute to preserving over 6,000 listed buildings in a world-class historic environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in a relevant subject and membership or working towards membership of the IHBC.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
At Bath & North East Somerset Council we have one overriding purpose to improve people’s lives.
We are seeking two experienced historic built environment professionals to join our specialist team on fixed‑term contracts of one and two years.
- Fixed Term Contract – 2 years
- Maternity Cover – temporary cover up to one year (end date dependent upon return of substantive post holder)
District Heritage Context:
- Over 6,000 listed buildings (≈3% Grade I, 10% Grade II*, 87% Grade II)
- 35 conservation areas
- 16 registered historic parks and gardens
- A wide range of undesignated local heritage assets
The Team and Work You Will Do:
- Manage, assess, and recommend decisions on listed building consent and planning applications
- Advise on development proposals affecting heritage assets
- Guide new development and capital projects with historic environment implications
- Conservation area designation, review, and appraisal
- Work on heritage at risk
- Contribute to Local Plan policy development and site allocations
There is also a particular opportunity to support council projects, as the Council owns a substantial number of listed buildings across Bath and has responsibility for a wide range of functions within this uniquely sensitive historic environment.
About You:
- Hold a degree in a relevant subject
- Be a member of, or working towards membership of, the IHBC and ideally RTPI
- Have a demonstrable track record in heritage conservation, the planning process, and achieving high‑quality outcomes
- Possess a strong understanding of national and local historic environment policy and legislation
- Have previous local government experience
Why Join Us:
We are a positive, supportive, and collaborative team committed to delivering excellent outcomes for both heritage and communities. You will work in a world‑class historic environment, contribute to addressing major challenges such as climate change and retrofitting historic buildings, and help shape the future of one of the UK’s most significant places. We support flexible working with the opportunity to move between the award‑winning, modern Civic Centre in Keynsham (main office base), other Council locations in Bath and Midsomer Norton, and some homeworking.
Interviews and Information:
We aim to hold all interviews for this position face‑to‑face.
Additional Information:
- Please note that this advert may close earlier than the stated closing date due to high demand. Apply as soon as possible.
- Please note that BANES Council operates a policy of prior consideration for roles for any individual on the Council’s at‑risk register (redeployee). Redeployees who meet the essential criteria will be considered ahead of external applicants.
- Please note that this role is subject to an Enhanced/Basic DBS Check.
Diversity and Inclusion:
We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply. Applications for job‑share, part‑time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs. The Council is a Disability Confident Employer.
Safeguarding Statement:
The Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable groups. All employees and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. Anyone working in a post with children or vulnerable groups will be expected to undertake an Enhanced DBS check with/without barred list checks.
Conservation Officers employer: BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL
Join Bath & North East Somerset Council, where you can work on significant heritage projects in a supportive team. Enjoy flexible working arrangements and contribute to addressing climate change challenges in a historic setting. The main office is located in the award-winning Civic Centre in Keynsham.
Contact Details:
BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Conservation Officers
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Conservation Officers
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
