At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Housing Strategy Team to tackle empty homes and strengthen communities.
- Company: Scottish Borders Council, dedicated to improving housing solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, supportive work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Temporary role until 2028 with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by bringing empty homes back into use and helping those in need.
- Qualifications: Degree in Housing or related field, strong communication skills, and a driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 44000 - 48000 € per year.
We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic professional to join our Housing Strategy Team on a 2‑year temporary basis and play a key role in tackling empty homes across the Scottish Borders. This is an exciting opportunity to help bring private sector empty properties back into use, making a real contribution to meeting housing need and strengthening communities.
Working closely with property owners, colleagues across the Council and external partners, you will provide expert advice, practical support and creative solutions to encourage the reuse of empty homes. You will contribute to the development and delivery of the Council’s Empty Homes Strategy and Local Housing Strategy, help shape and deliver targeted initiatives, and support the provision of information, advice and incentive schemes for owners.
The role also involves maintaining and analysing empty homes data, monitoring progress, and helping to secure and manage funding to support this important work. This role would suit someone with experience in private sector housing who enjoys working collaboratively, has strong communication and negotiation skills, and is keen to make a positive difference through proactive and innovative housing solutions.
Essential:- A degree or equivalent in a Housing, Environmental Health or Building related discipline.
- Membership of a professional body (e.g. CIH or equivalent).
- A current driving licence and use of a vehicle is an essential requirement of this post.
If you have a disability which precludes you from holding a drivers licence, Scottish Borders Council will take into account its responsibility to make reasonable adjustments to allow for your disability. Should it be possible to make such an adjustment in order that you can undertake the travel responsibilities of the post, this will be taken into account in consideration for this role.
Scottish Borders Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all minority groups and individuals who identify with one or more of the protected characteristics as defined by the Equality Act 2010. In particular from candidates who assess themselves as having a disability, under the Disability Confident Employer scheme this guarantees an interview to those individuals who meet the essential criteria of the post. All appointments will be made on merit.
Scottish Borders Council is committed to providing support for Armed Forces Veterans. Showing its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, the Council guarantees an interview to veterans who meet the essential criteria of the post. All appointments will be made on merit.
Empty Homes Strategy & Policy Officer - Council HQ - SBO10029 employer: Scottish Borders Council
Scottish Borders Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can make a tangible impact on local communities. With a strong focus on professional development, the Council provides opportunities for growth and collaboration within a dedicated team, all while working in the beautiful Scottish Borders. Employees benefit from a commitment to diversity, flexible working arrangements, and a chance to contribute to meaningful housing solutions that enhance the quality of life for residents.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Empty Homes Strategy & Policy Officer - Council HQ - SBO10029
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the housing sector! Attend local events, join online forums, or even reach out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share your experiences and how they relate to tackling empty homes. We want to see your passion for making a difference, so let your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Research the Council
Before any interviews, do your homework on Scottish Borders Council and their Empty Homes Strategy. Knowing their goals and challenges will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Empty Homes Strategy & Policy Officer - Council HQ - SBO10029
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Empty Homes Strategy & Policy Officer. We want to see how you can contribute to tackling empty homes in the Scottish Borders!
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t hold back on sharing your relevant experience in private sector housing. We’re looking for someone who can bring practical solutions, so give us examples of how you've done this in the past!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points if it helps to convey your message effectively!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can consider you for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Borders Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Council’s Empty Homes Strategy and any relevant housing policies. Being able to discuss these in detail will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples from your past experience that highlight your communication and negotiation skills. Think about times when you've successfully collaborated with others or solved a tricky problem in housing.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Come prepared with thoughtful questions about the role and the team. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
While it’s important to be professional, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. The Council is looking for someone who is motivated and enthusiastic, so be sure to convey your passion for making a difference in the community.
