At a Glance
- Tasks: Supervise housing standards, improve private sector housing quality, and lead enforcement actions.
- Company: Local authority in Elmbridge focused on housing standards and community welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, potential for contract extension, and impactful work.
- Other info: Immediate start available; great opportunity for career growth in public service.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in housing quality and safety in your community.
- Qualifications: Degree in Environmental Health or equivalent, with relevant experience in housing legislation.
The predicted salary is between 35.46 - 35.46 £ per hour.
We are working closely with a local authority in Elmbridge to assist with the appointment of a Senior Housing Standards Officer, on a 3-month contract, highly likely to be extended at clients discretion. Please apply with your CV for immediate consideration.
Rate of Pay: £26.86- £35.46 per hour
Summary: The Senior Housing Standards Officer plays a key role in improving the quality, safety, energy efficiency, and management of private sector housing across Elmbridge Borough. The role includes supervising Housing Standards Officers, preparing cases for court action, administering housing-related licensing schemes, and supporting the Council's objectives on empty homes, Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), domestic energy efficiency, and private sector housing improvements.
Responsibilities:
- Investigate complaints and requests relating to poor housing conditions across all housing tenures.
- Assess housing conditions and determine the most appropriate intervention or enforcement action in accordance with legislation and the Council's Housing Enforcement Policy.
- Lead on complex housing enforcement cases, including preparing legal documentation, undertaking interviews under caution, serving statutory notices, initiating prosecutions, undertaking works in default, and representing the Council in court or tribunal proceedings.
- Lead complex empty homes cases, providing strategic guidance while supporting initiatives to return long-term empty properties to occupation.
- Administer and enforce the Council's Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Licensing Scheme, including inspections, licence assessments, compliance monitoring, and enforcement action.
- Support the Housing Solutions Team by inspecting properties for statutory overcrowding, disrepair, and breaches of housing legislation, including the Renters Rights Act.
- Maintain accurate records using the Council's private sector housing IT systems and contribute to system improvements, reporting, and performance monitoring.
Qualifications:
- Degree or Diploma in Environmental Health or an equivalent professional qualification.
- Certificate of Registration with the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) or equivalent professional recognition.
Essentials:
- Experience using Environmental Health and housing legislation to improve housing conditions and resolve poor housing standards.
- Experience working within Environmental Health, Private Sector Housing, Housing Standards, or HMO Licensing services.
- Comprehensive knowledge of Environmental Health and Housing legislation, guidance, and statutory requirements.
- Thorough understanding of the Housing Act 2004, Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), HMO legislation, and associated enforcement powers.
- Knowledge of the Mobile Homes Act 2013 and related legislation.
Please note: You should be available to work immediately or at short notice. You should have the right to work in the U.K. This role requires a Basic DBS.
Senior Housing Standards Officer in Esher employer: Brackenberry
Brackenberry is an excellent employer that values its team members and fosters a supportive work culture in the beautiful surroundings of Abergavenny. With a focus on employee growth and development, we offer opportunities for skill enhancement while contributing to the maintenance of our cherished parks and open spaces. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the community while enjoying the benefits of working in a dynamic and rewarding environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Housing Standards Officer in Esher
✨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 Senior Housing Standards Officer in Esher
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 Brackenberry
✨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 Brackenberry.
✨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 Brackenberry 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.
