At a Glance
- Tasks: Support conservation work on historic buildings and learn essential surveying skills.
- Company: Join Historic Environment Scotland, a leader in heritage conservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, flexible hours, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in building surveying while preserving Scotland's rich history.
- Qualifications: SCQF Level 7 in Building Surveying or related field; passion for heritage conservation.
The predicted salary is between 27740 - 27740 £ per year.
Starting salary: £27,740
Contract type: Fixed term for 12 months
Grade: 1
Location: Longmore House, Edinburgh
Working Hours: 35 hours per week
Interviews: To be held week commencing 27 July or 3 August 2026
Thank you for your interest in the post of Building Surveyor Trainee with Historic Environment Scotland (HES). This role is based at Longmore House, Edinburgh, but will require travel to other HES sites. This is a 12-month fixed-term position. The contract will commence from October 2026.
The Operations Directorate is responsible for managing and conserving our Properties in Care (PIC). You will work with our estates teams and surveyors to support the survey and conservation work carried out on our buildings, learn how to undertake condition surveys and site audits and assist in the production of inspection reports. The work you undertake will not only enhance your skills and experience but will also be invaluable in the conservation of our historic buildings. Your efforts will help to ensure that our sites remain open (where possible) and safe for the enjoyment of both colleagues and visitors.
Benefits of joining us at Historic Environment Scotland:
- Enrolment onto a Civil Service Pension scheme – 28% employer contribution
- 25 days annual leave, pro-rata (increasing to 30 days after 3 years) + 11.5 public holidays
- Reimbursement for relevant professional subscriptions
- Support for further education and personal development
- Study leave for work related courses
- Flexible working hours (where appropriate)
- Free entry to all of our properties (with up to three guests)
- Free entry to English Heritage, Manx and Cadw properties
Key Responsibilities of this role:
This is a training and development role for someone with a strong interest in a career in building surveying, conservation, and asset management. In this role, you can expect a structured, work-based learning experience designed to enhance your career development. You will learn to:
- Carry out condition surveys
- Undertake site audits
- Produce survey reports
- Assist the District Surveyor and Conservation Technologist with the preparation of drawings, specifications and technical information
- Prepare schedule monument consents, listed building consents and other statutory building consent
Key requirements of the role:
In order for you to be successful in this post, we will be looking for you to complete a cover letter which addresses:
- Why you are interested in the post with Historic Environment Scotland
- How you can meet each of the essential and desirable criteria (in up to 800 words), using examples of where you have used these skills in the past.
Please ensure that you provide real life examples for each of the criteria to be considered for this post. You can use examples of how you have met this criteria from your work life, home life, education or volunteer experience. Please read our CV and Cover Letter Guidance first before completing, as you will only be eligible for selection if you use examples of how you meet the essential and desirable criteria.
Essential Criteria:
- SCQF Level 7 qualification in Building Surveying, Architecture or Architectural Technology
- Working towards Assessment of Professional Competency (APC) in Building Surveying
- A strong desire to pursue a career in heritage conservation with a keen interest in building conservation and/or surveying.
- Ability and willingness to occasionally travel and work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions
- Computer literacy
- Good eye for detail and can maintain focus over extended periods
- Self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
- Strong organisational and prioritisation abilities, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously
We are dedicated to building a workforce which is reflective of diversity within Scotland. We warmly welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, regardless of age, race, gender or gender identity, religious beliefs, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, or neurodiversity. In support of our Gaelic Language Plan, we welcome applications from Gaelic speakers.
We want every candidate to have the best chance to succeed during the recruitment process. If you require your application in an alternative format, please reach out to us via email at recruit@hes.scot or call our Head Office at 0131 668 8600 and speak to a member of our People Team.
Please note that, at this time, we are unfortunately unable to provide sponsorship as part of the recruitment process, therefore you must have current right to work in the UK to be considered for a post.
To submit your application online, please read our ‘How to Apply’ section followed by ‘Apply Now’ button to begin your application.
Building Surveyor Trainee in Edinburgh employer: Historic Environment Scotland
Historic Environment Scotland is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and conservation of Scotland's rich heritage. With benefits such as a generous pension scheme, flexible working hours, and opportunities for further education, you will thrive in a role that not only enhances your skills but also contributes to the preservation of historic buildings in a vibrant city like Edinburgh.
Contact Details:
Historic Environment Scotland Recruitment Team
