At a Glance
- Tasks: Support communities in caring for historic churches and manage conservation projects.
- Company: Join a dedicated team focused on preserving Suffolk's rich church heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic role with travel across beautiful Suffolk.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community by preserving living places of worship.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and experience in managing listed building projects.
The predicted salary is between 34350 - 34350 £ per year.
Full-time (35 hours per week) although applications for part-time hours will be considered.
Two-year fixed term contract. Salary £34,350 FTE per annum.
Suffolk boasts an internationally significant legacy of historic church buildings. Along with that of Norfolk, they reputedly constitute the greatest concentration of medieval churches anywhere in northern Europe. Out of a total of 476 functioning churches, 50.8% are listed at Grade I and 37.2% are listed at Grade II*. Seven are classed as Major Parish Churches by the Church Buildings Council.
We are looking for a Historic Church Building Support Officer to help parishes and communities to care for and maintain their historic listed churches. With a proven knowledge of church architecture and a relevant degree, the successful candidate will establish effective working relationships with a range of stakeholders including Parish Church Council (PCC) officers and Church Wardens to guide, inform, boost capacity and morale to help them care for and maintain their historic listed churches, principally those on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk (H@R) Register.
These buildings are not museums; they are living places of worship at the service of their communities and responsibility for their upkeep rests primarily on the shoulders of volunteers. Buildings for assistance will be identified primarily through the Heritage at Risk (H@R) Register published annually by Historic England (HE). This will also be one of the measures for performance and thus the postholder’s responsibilities will include ensuring that information in that source is kept up to date to reflect the situation on the ground and the progress achieved.
The successful candidate will also have a successful track record of managing repair and conservation projects involving listed buildings and knowledge of heritage and community grant-funding resources, understanding of their priorities and experience of writing applications.
The role will involve desk-based work in the Diocesan offices in Ipswich and regular catch-ups will be held there with the DAC Secretary. The role will also involve a high degree of independent working, including frequent travel around the diocese and, on occasions, outside it. As such, a full UK driving license and access to a vehicle are essential.
The DBF is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to acceptable pre-appointment checks, including a satisfactory DBS check where required. The care and protection of children, young people and vulnerable adults involved in church activities is the responsibility of the whole church. Everyone who participates in the life of the church has a role to play in promoting a Safer Church for all. Safeguarding is an integral part of the mission and ministry of the church in this diocese and is in line with our Growing in God strategy. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
Closing Date: Wednesday 16 September 2026. Interview Date: w/c 28 September 2026.
Historic Church Building Support Officer (HCBSO) in Ipswich employer: Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich
The Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead community engagement initiatives in a supportive and spiritually enriching environment. With a strong commitment to safeguarding and children's welfare, employees benefit from a full-time stipend and accommodations, fostering both personal and professional growth. The collaborative work culture encourages innovative thinking and meaningful contributions to the community, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding career in leadership.
Contact Details:
Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Historic Church Building Support Officer (HCBSO) in Ipswich
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