At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in building control surveying and ensure compliance with regulations.
- Company: Join LABC Academy, a leader in building control training.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with a competitive salary and no student debt.
- Other info: Enjoy hybrid working, mentorship, and excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in construction with hands-on experience and accredited qualifications.
- Qualifications: 3 A levels at grade C or equivalent; passion for problem-solving.
The predicted salary is between 27500 - 27500 £ per year.
LABC Academy – hosted by Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils
Address: Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2BX
Salary: Up to £27,500 per annum
Hours: Full Time, 37 hours per week
Contract: Fixed Term Training Programme for 2 years, required to start September 2026
Reference: 3681
Looking for an opportunity to earn while you learn and gain the qualifications needed to start a successful career in the construction industry? Having already recruited and trained 200 people, LABC, the organisation that represents all local authority building control teams in England and Wales, is recruiting additional Trainee Building Control Inspectors to join their LABC Academy, starting in September 2026.
The LABC Academy Programme is a two-year fully funded programme that provides the opportunity to gain level 4 and level 5 diplomas in building control surveying whilst getting on-the-job experience with a local authority building control department. Throughout the programme you'll earn a competitive salary and on completion you'll have the skills, qualifications and experience required to become a Registered Building Inspector as well as the opportunity to progress to become a fully qualified Chartered Surveyor or Building Engineer.
As a Trainee Building Inspector, you'll assist in delivering a range of surveying activities relating to building control, including:
- Working with designers and contractors to achieve compliance with building regulations
- Doing inspections of building work
- Assisting in technical investigations
- Responding to dangerous structure call outs
You will be employed by LABC and based in a local authority close to you to allow you to gain practical experience. Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils are one of our host local authorities and you would be based at Endeavour House in Ipswich.
Please note, this role will require regular travel to sites within your local authority. Therefore, you will need a full driving licence or be working towards having one by the employment start date.
What does the programme include?
- Two years accredited learning, where you will earn your level 4 and level 5 diplomas in building control surveying. As a funded programme you will have no student debt to pay back.
- Hybrid working approach with a 35-hour work week mainly consisting of two days home based learning/study and three days on the job training with your assigned local authority (with five days in your local authority outside 'term' time)
- A competitive salary throughout the duration of the programme.
- Regular salary increases following successful completion of education and competence milestones.
- A dedicated LABC coordinator to support you throughout your employment with LABC.
- An experienced local authority mentor who will meet with you daily.
- Training and experience to become a Chartered Surveyor or Building Engineer.
What do I need to join?
We're seeking technically minded people who like problem solving, are keen to learn and are looking to build a real career in the construction industry. To apply you will need one of the following:
- Minimum 3 A levels at grade C or higher (or equivalent 80 UCAS points)
- Demonstrable experience in a relevant or related discipline for example but not limited to construction, ex-military, fire etc.
- A qualification at level 3 S/NVQ in construction or a related discipline
What can we offer you?
- 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Private Pension with 4% employers' contribution and 4% employee contribution
- Hybrid working (typically 2 days training and study at home, 3 days site based)
- Season ticket loan scheme
- 35 hour working week
- Laptop
- Investment in your development as a Building Inspector through levels 4 and 5 diplomas over two-year Fixed Term Contract. This investment is worth over £10,000.
The application process:
- Initial application - Submit your CV to Opus. We'll then contact you with a few more questions to complete your application.
- Assessment centre - If your application is successful, you'll then be invited to attend one of the assessment centres on 22, 23 and 24 June in Birmingham.
- Offer - We'll notify you of the assessment centre outcome within one week. If you're successful, we'll then work with LABC to get everything ready for you to start your new role. Please note all offers are subject to satisfactory references and a clean DBS check.
For more information and to apply, please visit the Opus People Solutions website for more details about this opportunity and to apply.
Closing date: 1pm, 18 June 2026
Trainee Building Control Inspector in Ipswich employer: Suffolk Jobs Direct
LABC Academy, hosted by Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring Trainee Building Control Inspectors to earn while they learn in a supportive environment. With a competitive salary, hybrid working model, and a commitment to employee development through fully funded diplomas, this role not only paves the way for a successful career in the construction industry but also fosters a collaborative work culture with dedicated mentorship. Located in Ipswich, employees benefit from a vibrant community and access to various local authority projects, ensuring a meaningful and rewarding experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Building Control Inspector in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research LABC and their values. When you show up for interviews or assessments, drop in some knowledge about their projects or initiatives. It’ll impress them and show you’re genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before your assessment centre, do some mock interviews with friends or family. Get comfortable talking about your experiences and how they relate to the role of a Trainee Building Control Inspector.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or past trainees on LinkedIn. They can give you insider tips on what to expect and how to stand out during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the LABC Academy and starting your career in building control.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Building Control Inspector in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are relevant to the Trainee Building Control Inspector role. Highlight any construction-related qualifications or experiences, even if they're from a different field.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about building control and how your background makes you a great fit for the LABC Academy. Keep it concise but engaging!
Be Ready for Questions:After submitting your application, be prepared for follow-up questions. Think about your problem-solving skills and how they relate to the construction industry, as these will likely come up during the assessment process.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through the Opus People Solutions website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get you started on this exciting journey towards becoming a Building Inspector.
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk Jobs Direct
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on building regulations and the basics of building control surveying. Familiarise yourself with common compliance issues and how to address them, as this will show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've tackled challenges or solved problems, especially in construction or related fields. This will demonstrate your technical mindset and ability to think on your feet.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the LABC Academy programme, the mentoring process, and what a typical day looks like for a Trainee Building Control Inspector. This shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about the opportunity.
✨Dress the Part
Even if the interview is casual, dressing smartly can make a great first impression. Aim for business casual attire that reflects professionalism, as it sets the tone for how seriously you take the opportunity.
