At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in building control surveying and compliance inspections while gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: Join LABC, a leading organisation in local authority building control.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary, gain qualifications, and enjoy a hybrid working model.
- Other info: Two-year funded programme with excellent mentorship and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in construction with no student debt and real-world experience.
- Qualifications: 3 A levels at grade C or higher and relevant experience in construction.
The predicted salary is between 23500 - 27500 £ per year.
Looking for an opportunity to earn while you learn and gain the qualifications needed to start a successful career in the construction industry? LABC, the organisation that represents all local authority building control teams in England and Wales, is recruiting additional building control trainees to join their LABC Academy, starting in September 2026.
The LABC Academy Programme is a two-year fully funded programme that provides the opportunity to gain level 4 and level 5 diplomas in building control surveying while getting on-the-job experience with a local authority building control department. Throughout the programme you’ll learn a competitive salary and on completion you’ll have the skills, qualifications and experience required to become a Registered Building Inspector as well as the opportunity to progress to become a fully qualified Chartered Surveyor or Building Engineer.
As a Trainee Building Inspector, you’ll assist in delivering a range of surveying activities relating to building control, including:
- Working with designers and contractors to achieve compliance with building regulations
- Doing inspections of building work
- Assisting in technical investigations
- Responding to dangerous structure call-outs
Successful candidates will be employed by LABC and based in a local authority close to you to allow you to gain practical experience. We are currently seeking candidates based within the following location: Braintree District Council (CM7 9HB).
Please note – This role will require regular travel to sites within your local authority. Therefore, you will need a full driving licence or be working towards having one by the employment start date.
Job Details
- Salary: £23,500 – £27,500 (dependent on experience)
- Contractual hours: 35
- Basis: Full time
- Job category/type: Permanent - Full Time
What does the programme include?
- Two years accredited learning, where you will earn your level 4 and level 5 diplomas in building control surveying
- Hybrid working approach – 35‑hour work week mainly consisting of two days home‑based learning/study and three days on‑the‑job training with your assigned local authority (with five days in your local authority outside ‘term’ time)
- A competitive salary throughout the duration of the programme
- Regular salary increases following successful completion of education and competence milestones
- A dedicated LABC coordinator to support you throughout your employment with LABC
- An experienced local authority mentor who will meet with you daily
- Training and experience to become a Chartered Surveyor or Building Engineer
What do I need to join?
- Minimum 3 A levels at grade C or higher (or equivalent – 80 UCAS points)
- Demonstrable experience in a relevant or related discipline (e.g., construction, ex‑military, fire, etc.)
- A qualification at level 3 NVQ in construction or a related discipline
The application process
- Initial application – Submit your CV to Opus. We'll then contact you with a few more questions to complete your application.
- Assessment centre – If your application is successful, you’ll then be invited to attend one of the assessment centres on 22/23/24 June in Birmingham.
- Offer – We'll notify you of the assessment centre outcome within one week. If you’re successful, we'll then work with LABC to get everything ready for you to start your new role.
Please note all offers are subject to satisfactory references and a clean DBS check. Further details will be confirmed by our recruitment teams at the time of booking. Please note, Braintree District Council is advertising this opportunity on behalf of the LABC and we are unable to accept direct applications or CVs – please visit this link for more information and to apply.
Trainee Building Inspector in Braintree employer: Colchester Borough Council
LABC is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity for aspiring professionals in the construction industry through its fully funded Trainee Building Inspector programme. With a strong focus on employee development, you will benefit from a competitive salary, hybrid working arrangements, and dedicated support from experienced mentors, all while gaining valuable qualifications and practical experience in your local authority. Join us to kickstart your career with no student debt and clear pathways to becoming a Chartered Surveyor or Building Engineer.
Contact Details:
Colchester Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Building Inspector in Braintree
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research LABC and their values. When you show up for your assessment centre, drop in some knowledge about their projects or initiatives. It’ll impress them and show you’re genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before your assessment, run through common interview questions with a mate. Think about how your skills relate to building control and be ready to share examples from your experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! First impressions matter, so make sure you look smart and professional for your assessment. It shows you take the opportunity seriously and are ready to step into the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your assessment, shoot a quick thank-you email to the recruitment team. It’s a nice touch and keeps you on their radar as they make their decisions.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Building Inspector in Braintree
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your relevant experience and qualifications clearly, and don’t forget to tailor it to the Trainee Building Inspector role. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Answer Questions Thoughtfully:After submitting your CV, you’ll get some follow-up questions from us. Take your time to answer them thoughtfully. This is your chance to showcase your problem-solving skills and passion for the construction industry, so let your personality shine through!
Prepare for the Assessment Centre:If you make it to the assessment centre, congratulations! Brush up on your building regulations knowledge and be ready to demonstrate your technical skills. We’ll be looking for candidates who are eager to learn and can think on their feet.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we can only accept applications through our website. So, head over to the link provided and submit your application there. It’s super easy, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Colchester Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on building regulations and the basics of building control surveying. Familiarise yourself with the role of a Trainee Building Inspector and the skills required. This will show your enthusiasm and commitment to the field.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Since the job involves technical investigations and compliance checks, be ready to discuss examples where you've tackled problems in a construction or related environment. Think of specific situations where you’ve had to think on your feet!
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the LABC Academy Programme and the mentoring you'll receive. This not only shows your interest but also helps you understand how the programme can help you grow into a Chartered Surveyor or Building Engineer.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Your Experience
Whether it’s your A-levels or any relevant work experience, be prepared to discuss how your background has equipped you for this role. Highlight any hands-on experience in construction or related fields that can set you apart from other candidates.
