Design and Specification Lead in Hampshire

At Places for People, we hire People, not numbers! So, if you like the sound of one of our jobs, please apply – you could be just who we're looking for! Of course, experience and track record are important, but we're more interested in hiring someone that embodies our People Promises. That's someone that does the right thing, is enthusiastic and motivated to grow, believes in Community spirit, is respectful and enjoys their work. As the UK's leading Social Enterprise, we don't discriminate based on any protected attribute. In fact, we're dedicated to creating inclusive and thriving Communities for both our Customers and Employees.

More About Your Role

As our Building and Technical Lead, internally known as Design and Specification Lead, you prepare clear and accurate drawings, schedules and specifications to support planned investment work, using site and measured surveys to produce reliable plans and technical details. You produce well written technical reports, apply building regulations in practice, and understand the basics of planning and regulatory applications. You work with external design consultants, keep systems and records up to date through routine administration, and provide clear technical advice to internal and external stakeholders.

Essential Criteria

• Some experience using AutoCAD or similar design software, gained through work experience, placement, apprenticeship or study.
• Experience supporting the production of basic technical drawings, plans or specifications, or evidence of relevant coursework or project work.
• Relevant HNC or HND qualification in a construction or built environment subject, or working towards one, or equivalent practical experience.
• Ability to produce clear written information such as reports, notes or technical summaries, with a basic understanding of Building Regulations.

More About You

You have experience using AutoCAD or similar design software and hold a relevant HNC or HND qualification or can demonstrate equivalent practical experience. You are confident using IT tools such as Microsoft Office and project software, work effectively as part of multi-disciplinary teams, and communicate clearly with professionals, authorities and clients. You can prioritise your workload to meet time, cost and quality targets, apply health and safety requirements in day‑to‑day work, and hold a full driving licence with access to a suitable vehicle. Ideally, you also have or are working towards membership of a professional body, have accredited AutoCAD or GIS experience, and understand Construction Design and Management Regulations.

Benefits

• Competitive salary, with a salary review yearly.
• Pension with matched contributions up to 7%.
• Excellent holiday package – 35 days annual leave with the option to buy or sell leave.
• Cashback plan for healthcare costs – up to £500 saving per year.
• A bonus scheme for all colleagues at 2%.
• Training and development.
• Extra perks including huge discounts and offers from shops, cinemas and much more.

Diversity and Inclusion

As part of our commitment to diversity and inclusion, we offer a guaranteed interview to candidates who are disabled, neurodiverse, or have served in the Armed Forces, provided they meet the essential criteria for the role. We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support your application or interview experience, please let us know. We're happy to work with you to ensure you have the opportunity to perform at your best.

Safeguarding

At Places for People, safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. We are committed to creating safe communities for our customers and colleagues by protecting children, young people, and adults at risk from harm, abuse, and neglect. We follow robust safeguarding policies and procedures, ensuring all employees, volunteers, and contractors uphold the highest standards of safeguarding and accountability. Our recruitment process includes pre-employment checks, including Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks where applicable, to promote a safe and secure working environment. By joining Places for People, you are expected to contribute to our safeguarding culture, following our policies and reporting concerns to protect those in our communities.