At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and assess heritage projects, ensuring the preservation of historic buildings.
- Company: Bath & North East Somerset Council, dedicated to improving lives through heritage conservation.
- Benefits: Flexible working, supportive team, and opportunities to shape historic environments.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on heritage conservation in a world-class historic setting.
- Qualifications: Degree in a relevant subject and experience in heritage conservation.
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.
About the Role
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 in Keynsham employer: BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL
At Bath & North East Somerset Council, we pride ourselves on being a supportive and collaborative employer dedicated to improving lives through heritage conservation. Our team works in a world-class historic environment, offering flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional growth while tackling significant challenges like climate change. Join us to make a meaningful impact in one of the UK's most treasured locations.
Contact Details:
BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Conservation Officers in Keynsham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the conservation field, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. The more connections we make, the better our chances of hearing about job openings before they even hit the market.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Bath & North East Somerset Council's recent projects and initiatives. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role, but also passionate about the heritage and community work they do.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine our answers and boost our confidence. Let’s focus on articulating our experience in heritage conservation and how it aligns with the council's goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, we can keep track of our application status and any updates directly from there.
We think you need these skills to ace Conservation Officers in Keynsham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Conservation Officer role. Highlight your experience in heritage conservation and any relevant qualifications, like your degree or IHBC membership. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for historic environments shine through! Share examples of projects you've worked on that demonstrate your commitment to preserving heritage. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your skills and experiences.
Apply Early:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! Given the high demand for this role, we recommend applying as soon as possible through our website. This way, you won’t miss out on the opportunity to join our fantastic team.
How to prepare for a job interview at BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL
✨Know Your Heritage
Familiarise yourself with the local heritage context, including listed buildings and conservation areas in Bath. Being able to discuss specific examples will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Understand the Policies
Brush up on national and local historic environment policies and legislation. Be prepared to discuss how these impact decision-making in conservation and planning applications during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to share concrete examples from your past work that demonstrate your track record in heritage conservation and local government experience. Highlight any successful projects or challenges you've overcome.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Come prepared with thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, current projects, and future challenges the council faces. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
