At a Glance
- Tasks: Support communities in caring for historic church buildings and manage permissions for repairs.
- Company: Join a supportive team within the Diocese of Sussex, dedicated to heritage conservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 28 days leave, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional development and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in preserving cherished places for future generations.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of heritage conservation and strong teamwork skills required.
Help Shape the Future of Sussex's Church Buildings
Are you passionate about historic buildings, heritage conservation and supporting communities to care for cherished places? We are seeking a proactive and organised Church Buildings Officer to join the Church Buildings Team. This role offers flexi-time and hybrid working.
About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to work with parishes across the Diocese, helping them care for and adapt their church buildings for future generations, while balancing heritage conservation, sustainability and mission. Our churches are among the most significant historic buildings in Sussex. As Church Buildings Officer, you will provide advice and support to parishes, manage permissions for repairs and routine works, assist with faculty applications, and support the work of the Diocesan Advisory Committee for the Care of Churches (DAC).
Reporting to the Church Buildings Team Leader, you will:
- Manage the List B permissions process on behalf of the Archdeacons.
- Advise parishes on the care, repair and improvement of church buildings, contents and churchyards.
- Support parishes in using the Online Faculty System and navigating permissions processes.
- Assist in progressing faculty applications and church building projects.
- Prepare agendas, committee papers and draft minutes for DAC meetings.
- Attend site visits across the Diocese and prepare reports on proposed projects.
- Help deliver training and guidance sessions for clergy, churchwardens and parish volunteers.
- Work with colleagues to encourage sustainable and energy-efficient solutions for church buildings.
About You
You will be someone with proven ability understanding and applying legislation relating to the management of the historic built environment, with a strong commitment to teamwork and collaboration. You will have:
- Knowledge of historic buildings, heritage conservation and the management of the built environment.
- Experience in an advisory role and of working with volunteers.
- Experience of managing casework, applications or administrative processes that require a high degree of accuracy.
- Experience of organising meetings, preparing papers and maintaining records.
- Excellent written, administrative and IT skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build productive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
- The ability to interpret legislation, technical guidance and procedures.
- A proactive, adaptable and solution-focused approach.
Experience in a church environment and knowledge of the Faculty Jurisdiction system would be advantageous but is not essential.
About the Organisation
The vision of the Diocese is to help people to know, love and follow Jesus. Based in Hove and serving the people of Sussex across more than 360 parishes and 154 church schools and the wider community, this is a great role for someone who supports the ethos, aims and objectives of the Diocese and the Church of England. As an employer, and as a team, the mutual values at work are to be Respectful, Professional, Flexible and Supportive.
What is on offer:
- 28 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays and two privilege days per year.
- Membership of the Church Worker’s Pension Scheme with a 15.1% employer contribution and an employee contribution between 0-6%.
- Employee Assistance Programme with access to GP appointments, counselling and financial and legal support.
- Free parking, and the ride to work scheme and development opportunities.
Our client is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders are expected to share this commitment and to comply with the relevant safeguarding policy. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check, and the post will involve travelling around the Diocese, some evening work and occasional work at weekends.
Church Buildings Officer in Hove employer: Carer Support Wiltshire
Carer Support Wiltshire is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of at-risk young people in Greater London. With a strong commitment to employee development, we offer ongoing training and generous benefits such as 26 days of annual leave and a pension scheme, fostering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and equal opportunity. Join us to be part of a passionate team that not only prioritises professional growth but also contributes to the well-being of the community.
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