Highways Inspector in Manchester

The role holder will carry out thorough safety inspections and condition surveys of highways, public rights of way and field footpaths in accordance with prescribed codes of practice. They will accurately compile and update records of safety inspections using electronic recording devices and liaise proactively with highway contractors and repair teams to achieve efficient and effective repair of identified defects. They will undertake quality inspections of defect repairs to ensure compliance with specifications and budgetary provision, assist in the defense of accident‑trip claims, and attend court to give evidence when required.

Responsibilities

• Maintain an awareness and understanding of relevant legislation and Council policy and promptly report all identified unauthorised activities or incidents within the street scene that are to be actioned by other organisations.
• Erect public notices and critically monitor their effectiveness at prescribed intervals.
• Investigate and action reports relating to the public highway, issue work orders to make safe any highway defects that may constitute a hazard to public safety.
• Liaise effectively with all relevant parties on matters relating to safe highway operation and issue legal notices relating to defective third‑party apparatus.

Qualifications & Requirements

• 2 references – where possible we require 3 years’ history.
• Qualification – Hold or be willing to work towards the LANTRA (Highway Safety Inspectors Modular Training and Assessment Certificate) qualification.

Working hours: 35 hours per week.

Contract type: Full‑time, Permanent.

Closing date: 11.59 pm, 20 January 2026.

Benefits

• Generous holiday allowance – up to 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays; 31 days after five years of local government service; option to purchase up to two additional weeks.
• UK’s largest local government pension scheme, with life cover of three‑times your salary as a lump sum.
• Enhanced parental and carers leave.
• Perks such as shop, holiday, and transit discounts; free flu jabs and eye tests.
• Learning and growth opportunities – workshops, training, apprenticeships, and qualifications with a comprehensive onboarding process.
• Employment Charter membership – secure, flexible work, annual pay review, trade union representation, and health and wellbeing support.
• Up to three days pro‑rate paid volunteering leave.

Inclusive & Accessibility

Manchester City Council is dedicated to creating a workplace that reflects the diversity of our community. We actively welcome applications from people of all ages and backgrounds, particularly from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities, disabled people and young people. Interview adjustments are available – please indicate any adjustments you may need during the interview process. Accessible formats – our ReciteMe tool can be accessed through the “Accessibility tools” button on our careers page.

Assessment & Priorities

We guarantee assessments for applicants who meet the recruiting panel’s minimum shortlisting requirements for the role and identify with at least one of the following criteria: Members of the Armed Forces or veterans. Current or former care leavers. Have a disability or long‑term condition.

Application & Pre‑Employment Checks

In accordance with Home Office guidance, successful candidates must evidence their right to work in the UK before commencement of employment. This is not a role eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route. Pre‑employment checks may include: Proof of right to work – documentation of your right to work in the UK. References – references from current and previous employers.

Additional Information

We want everyone to be able to be themselves at work and give their best. If you need additional support to undertake the duties of the role, we’ll make every effort to source any necessary aids, adaptations or equipment.

For more information about the role, please refer to the attached role profile.