The Diocese of Liverpool seeks an enthusiastic early-career Building Surveyor to help the Diocese and its parishes manage, maintain and improve their diverse property portfolio. The role is ideal for a recent Building Surveying graduate with current technical knowledge, curiosity and enthusiasm who wants to gain experience in a supportive professional team.
Initially, the postholder will support the Clergy Housing team in delivering an extensive refurbishment programme following a strategic review of the housing stock. Working with the Clergy Housing Manager, in-house buildings team, consultants, contractors and parish representatives, they will help provide safe, well-maintained and sustainable homes that support the Diocese’s mission for years to come.
The postholder will also provide and review technical guidance on ongoing maintenance and emergency repairs. By thoroughly assessing issues, appropriate remedial work and associated costs, they will help the Clergy Housing Manager make informed decisions.
Reporting directly to the Head of Property and Building and the Clergy Housing Manager, the postholder will gain hands‑on experience in condition surveying, building pathology, maintenance planning, project delivery, statutory compliance and contract administration.
The postholder will receive support to develop professional competence and work towards an appropriate professional qualification, taking on greater responsibility as their experience grows. Alongside clergy housing work, building and condition surveys, net‑zero initiatives and grant funding applications for churches and halls will offer broad professional development opportunities.
This role suits an enthusiasticc graduate who enjoys site-based work and practical problem-solving and wants to build broad client-side surveying experience. It offers the opportunity to work towards chartered status while making a tangible difference to the Church, helping create spaces that serve communities, transform lives and share God’s love.
Context
The Diocese of Liverpool has embarked on a six‑year Strategic Transformation Programme, in partnership with the Church Commissioners, to deliver a clear, shared vision for mission, growth and a sustainable future. This aligns with the Church of England’s commitment to making its buildings more accessible and valuable to local communities.
Job Summary:
This role demands energy and a willingness to learn, working with senior colleagues to effectively manage, maintain and improve churches, church halls and clergy housing. The main purpose of the role:
- Assist senior colleagues with maintenance and refurbishment projects to safeguard the long‑term condition of clergy housing and across the Diocese of Liverpool. Also support with churches and halls
- Develop, nurture and manage relationships with key stakeholders to enable the above.
Key responsibilities and tasks include:
- Undertake building and condition surveys across the Diocese's estate, recording condition, defects and maintenance requirements.
- Assist with the diagnosis of building defects, including damp, water ingress, deterioration of building fabric and other maintenance issues
- Contribute to initiatives that improve the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Providing support with the review and implementation of a Net‑Zero brief.
- Help develop planned and preventative maintenance programmes, prioritising works according to condition, risk, urgency and available budgets.
- Prepare scopes of work, schedules, specifications and drawings for repair, maintenance and improvement projects.
- Assist with obtaining quotations and tenders and contribute to the procurement and appointment of contractors and consultants.
- Support the administration and delivery of building projects from initial inspection through to completion.
- Carry out site inspections, monitor contractors' progress and help ensure works meet the required quality, programme and health and safety standards.
- Assist with contract administration, project meetings, progress reporting and maintaining accurate project records.
- Help maintain accurate property information, condition data, drawings, photographs and project records.
- Support senior colleagues with matters relating to planning, Building Regulations, health and safety and CDM.
- Liaise professionally with parishes, clergy, contractors, consultants and other stakeholders, explaining technical property matters in a clear and practical way
PERSON SPECIFICATION - ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
Experience and Qualifications:
- Degree in Building Surveying or a closely related construction/property discipline.
- Placement, internship or other relevant practical experience within building surveying, construction or property would be advantageous; applications are also welcomed from recent graduates able to demonstrate strong relevant knowledge, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
- Commitment to continuing professional development.
Knowledge and Skills:
- A sound understanding of building construction gained through recent study or practical experience, together with an interest in developing expertise in building pathology and defect diagnosis.
- Strong written communication skills and the ability to prepare clear, concise reports.
- Ability to analyse problems and develop practical solutions.
- Knowledge of AutoCAD/Revit or similar drawing/property software.
- Good understanding of IT; with experience of using surveying equipment.
- Knowledge of Faculty approval processes or willingness to learn.
- Willingness to visit properties throughout the Diocese.
Personal Attributes:
- Confident communicator who is comfortable dealing with a wide variety of people.
- Good organisational skills with strong attention to detail.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a wider team.
- Resilient and tenacious, able to identify and overcome challenges
- Dynamic and proactive, with a strong sense of initiative and ownership
Other Requirements:
- Willingness and ability to travel across the Diocese as required.
- Commitment to the values and mission of the Diocese of Liverpool.
- Ability to work flexibly, including occasional evenings or weekends if necessary.
- Full UK driving license.
DESIRABLE REQUIREMENTS:
- Basic understanding of CDM, Building Regulations and construction health and safety.
- Interest or experience in historic buildings, conservation or traditional construction.
- Experience of belonging to a faith community
- Experience working within a faith-based or charitable organisation
- Experience of working in a Church context
- Knowledge and appreciation of heritage issues
- Knowledge of the structures and organisation of the Church of England
- Understanding of the Church of England’s structure, governance, and approval processes (e.g., PCCs, DAC, Faculty system)
Building Surveyor in Liverpool employer: Church of England
The Church of England offers a supportive and collaborative work environment, where your contributions to the governance of church buildings will be valued and impactful. With a strong emphasis on professional development, you will receive comprehensive training and opportunities for growth within the Diocese of Liverpool. Join us in a role that not only fosters your administrative skills but also allows you to engage meaningfully with the community and its heritage.
