This post manages Somerset Council's Asbestos team, an operational site team that carries out asbestos surveys and maintains the council's Asbestos Register. The core of the work is overseeing the survey plan, directing emergency asbestos responses and reporting on incidents. The team also does income-generating work for external clients such as schools, academies and Avon Fire and Rescue Service, with site visits in hazardous conditions and occasional out-of-hours call-outs. Sponsorship is not offered, so candidates must already have the right to work in the UK.
What the job involves
- Manage the asbestos team, including planning, directing and monitoring its performance
- Allocate work to staff and make operational decisions
- Oversee the asbestos survey plan so surveys stay on schedule and meet council policy and legislation
- Respond to emergency asbestos incidents, giving testing and guidance on outcomes and actions
- Write reports on asbestos incidents and accidents for the health and safety incident report
- Maintain and update council records in the Asbestos Register database
- Carry out asbestos surveys and site investigations as needed
- Help deliver income-generating asbestos services to external clients such as schools, academies and Avon Fire and Rescue Service
- Support the team in reducing asbestos risk proactively to prevent incidents and protect staff and building users
Experience
- At least 5 years' proven experience in asbestos management and consultancy across a diverse property portfolio
- Experience of managing statutory duties relating to asbestos management
- Experience of managing a team, contractors and compliance programmes
Skills & knowledge
- Knowledge of UKAS requirements, technical guidance and codes of practice for asbestos consultancy
- Strong understanding of UK asbestos legislation and HSE guidance
- Knowledge of property compliance systems and asset management software, such as Asbestos TEAMS
- Management skills, including resource and staff deployment
- Knowledge of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and health and safety management requirements
Checks & eligibility
- Right to work in the UK without needing visa sponsorship
Other
- Able to work at height and on hazardous sites in all weather, including confined spaces, wearing PPE
- Willing to work out of hours for emergency response or site access
What’s offered
- 30 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to buy additional leave
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Flexible and hybrid working where service needs allow
- Health and wellbeing support, including confidential employee assistance
- Paid volunteering opportunities
Asbestos Manager in Taunton employer: Somerset County Council
Somerset County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the welfare of children and families in Yeovil. With a strong commitment to continuous professional development and flexible hybrid working arrangements, employees are empowered to manage complex caseloads while contributing to meaningful service improvements. Join us to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people, all within a collaborative and nurturing environment.
