At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead building safety and property improvement programmes to enhance community living.
- Company: Join Cheltenham Borough Council, an award-winning and forward-thinking organisation.
- Benefits: Generous salary, excellent pension, flexible working, and 26+ days holiday.
- Other info: Supportive team environment with opportunities for professional growth and wellbeing initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives through safe and accessible housing.
- Qualifications: Degree in Building Surveying or 7 years relevant experience; chartered status preferred.
The predicted salary is between 48738 - 54229 € per year.
Cheltenham Borough Council has an exciting opportunity for a Principal Building Surveyor to join the team.
Location: Cheltenham, GL50 9SA
Salary: £48,738 - £54,229 per annum (pay award pending wef 1 April 2026)
Job Type: Full Time, Permanent
Closing Date: 17th May 2026
Come and work for an award-winning organisation! We are an ambitious and forward-thinking council. We are committed to making Cheltenham a better place to live and work, enabling communities and businesses to thrive whilst protecting what is good about our town. We aim to be an employer of choice where everyone is treated fairly and feels valued and respected. We aim to provide a stimulating and rewarding working environment that encourages our people to work together, provides opportunities for them to reach their full potential and achieve a healthy work/life balance. Working at Cheltenham Borough Council means working as part of a committed, professional, and friendly team.
The Role:
We are looking for an experienced and forward-thinking Principal Building Surveyor to lead our building safety and property improvement programmes across our housing stock. With a strong focus on fire safety compliance, major projects and disabled adaptations, this is a key leadership role ensuring our homes are safe, accessible, and meet the highest standards of quality. You will oversee complex projects from inception to completion, provide expert technical advice, and work collaboratively with internal teams, contractors, and residents to deliver outcomes that genuinely improve lives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the delivery of fire safety programmes, including FRA actions, compartmentation works, fire door replacements and passive fire protection
- Oversee the delivery of major disabled adaptations, ensuring homes are accessible, safe, and suitable for residents' needs
- Lead major projects such as the replacement of external wall insulation in blocks of flats
- Act as a technical expert on building pathology, compliance, and construction standards
- Manage project teams, external consultants, and contractors to ensure high-quality, value-for-money outcomes
- Provide professional advice on complex building issues, specifications, remedial works, and compliance with relevant legislation
- Develop and maintain robust technical standards, policies, and specifications for fire safety and adaptations
- Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and with exceptional stakeholder communication
- Undertake quality assurance inspections, technical audits, and the sign-off of critical safety works
- Collaborate closely with residents to ensure works consider individual needs and minimise disruption
- Support senior leadership in strategic planning, budget forecasting, and continuous improvement of building safety processes
You:
- Degree in Building Surveying or a related discipline or at least 7 years relevant experience
- Chartered status (RICS, CIOB) (Desirable)
- Significant experience within social housing, construction, or property compliance
- Expertise in fire safety legislation, building regulations, and adaptation standards
- Proven ability to lead and manage multiple programmes simultaneously
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills
- Strong understanding of health and safety, CDM Regulations, and risk management
What can we do for you:
- An excellent pension scheme. You will be eligible to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- A generous holiday entitlement of 26 days (pro rata) rising to 31 days (pro rata) after five years (excluding Bank Holidays)
- A flexible and agile working environment. We aim to provide opportunities to work from home or elsewhere and offer flexibility in working hours
- A comprehensive programme of learning and development
- Two days (pro rata) paid time off for volunteering
- Enhanced maternity and paternity schemes
- Access to free counselling services
- Upon successful completion of your probation period, you will then have access to our Healthcare Cashback Plan
- A cycle to work scheme
- Low-cost town centre parking
- A commitment to employee wellbeing
To submit your application for this Principal Building Surveyor opportunity, please click Apply now!
Principal Building Surveyor in Cheltenham employer: Cheltenham Borough Council
Cheltenham Borough Council is an award-winning organisation that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth, making it an excellent employer for the Principal Building Surveyor role. With a commitment to creating a supportive work environment, generous holiday entitlements, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive learning and development programme, employees are empowered to thrive while contributing to the community's safety and quality of life. Join a friendly and dedicated team that values your expertise and fosters a culture of respect and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Building Surveyor in Cheltenham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the building surveying field, especially those who might have insights into Cheltenham Borough Council. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council’s recent projects and initiatives. Show us you’re genuinely interested in making Cheltenham a better place and how your skills can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities of the Principal Building Surveyor role. We want to hear about your successes in fire safety compliance and project management.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our award-winning team at Cheltenham Borough Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Building Surveyor in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Building Surveyor role. Highlight your relevant experience in building safety, fire compliance, and project management. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about improving lives through building safety and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Whether it's leading a successful project or implementing a new safety standard, we want to know how you've made a difference in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining our award-winning team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cheltenham Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of fire safety legislation, building regulations, and adaptation standards. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're the right fit for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led projects in the past. Highlight your experience managing teams and collaborating with stakeholders, as this is crucial for the Principal Building Surveyor position.
✨Understand the Council's Vision
Familiarise yourself with Cheltenham Borough Council's goals and values. Be ready to discuss how your work can contribute to making Cheltenham a better place to live and work, aligning with their commitment to community improvement.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the role and the council's current projects. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to demonstrate your understanding of the challenges they face in building safety and property improvements.
