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- Tasks: Lead a team in managing the Council’s property estate and oversee major capital projects.
- Company: Durham County Council, committed to equality and diversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community projects while developing your professional skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in a relevant field and MRICS membership required.
- Other info: Supportive environment with a focus on professional development and inclusivity.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 52000 £ per year.
Durham County Council are seeking to recruit a Principal Surveyor for a period of 12 months.
What is involved?
You will be a senior member of a team responsible for the delivery of the Council’s Property Management service. This role will ensure proactive management of the Council’s estate ensuring the efficient management, use and occupation of the estate and working with the wider team identifying opportunities for rationalisation and/or disposal. You will supervise and direct the case work of Surveyors and Senior Surveyors, thereby supporting the Consultant Surveyors in management of the Council’s land and property portfolio to ensure that corporate and service, legislative, professional and good practice requirements are met or exceeded. You will be responsible for all acquisitions of land and property interests for Council purposes including the implementation of Compulsory Purchase powers. You will take the service lead on major capital projects, ensuring advice and property related requirements are fully understood and accurately implemented, working as part of a project team to ensure successful delivery.
What will I need?
- Educated to degree level or equivalent in a relevant subject.
- Relevant professional qualification and Full Membership of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS).
- Evidence of continued professional development.
Please refer to the attached Person Specification for the full criteria.
Interviews will be held on Thursday 14th May 2026. We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants that can show they meet all the essential criteria and have indicated they have a disability, are a looked after young person, care leaver or a veteran.
Offer to you
We offer a competitive rewards package that includes attractive salaries, a generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days (rising to 32 after five years’ continuous local government service), membership of the excellent contributory career average Local Government Pension Scheme, and a range of flexible working arrangements including hybrid working (home and office) where applicable. Rewards and benefits are subject to individual terms and conditions.
Equality, Diversity and inclusion
We are a proud equal opportunities employer and believe a diverse workforce brings fresh ideas and drives service improvement. We welcome applications from everyone and make employment decisions based on skills and ability. As a Disability Confident Leader, we actively encourage applications from disabled and neurodivergent people and offer support throughout the recruitment process.
How to apply
Please note, we do not accept CVs. All applications must be submitted online via the Northeast Jobs portal. Use the Person Specification section of the form to clearly demonstrate how you meet the essential (and where possible, desirable) criteria. Applications that do not evidence the essential requirements will not be shortlisted.
If you require assistance when applying for this role, please contact our Recruitment Helpdesk on 03000 26 27 27, or via email RecruitmentRES@durham.gov.uk.
Principal Surveyor in North East employer: North East Ambition
Contact Detail:
North East Ambition Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Surveyor in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the property management field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about roles that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Durham County Council and their property management services thoroughly. Knowing their projects and challenges will help you stand out as someone who’s genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've successfully managed property portfolios or led capital projects. This will demonstrate your capability and align with what they’re looking for in a Principal Surveyor.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, make sure to highlight how you meet the essential criteria in your application – that’s key to getting shortlisted!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Surveyor in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Qualifications: Make sure to highlight your degree and any relevant professional qualifications, like your MRICS membership. We want to see how you meet the essential criteria, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Use the Person Specification section wisely! We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate how you meet both the essential and desirable criteria. This is your chance to shine, so make it personal!
Keep It Professional: While we love a friendly tone, remember to keep your application professional. Use clear language and structure your responses well. It’ll make it easier for us to see why you’re the right fit!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget, we only accept applications through the Northeast Jobs portal. Make sure you follow the instructions carefully and check everything before hitting submit. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at North East Ambition
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of property management and the specific responsibilities of a Principal Surveyor. Familiarise yourself with Durham County Council's estate and any recent projects they've undertaken. This will show that you're genuinely interested in the role and understand what it entails.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Surveyor, you'll be supervising other surveyors. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or managed projects. Highlight how you ensured compliance with legislative and professional standards, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about the Council’s future projects or their approach to property rationalisation. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your career goals.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Development
Since continued professional development is essential, be ready to discuss how you've kept your skills sharp and any relevant qualifications you hold, like your MRICS membership. This will reassure them that you're dedicated to staying at the top of your game.