Highways Clerk of Works

Highways Clerk of Works

Full-Time 39526 - 43613 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead quality inspections and oversee highway improvement projects in a dynamic environment.
  • Company: Join the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, a vibrant and innovative council.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 32 days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
  • Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for career growth and development.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on community infrastructure while developing your professional skills.
  • Qualifications: HNC or equivalent experience, project management skills, and excellent communication abilities.

The predicted salary is between 39526 - 43613 £ per year.

Join other savvy professionals just like you at CIHT. We are committed to fulfilling your professional development needs throughout your career. We have an exciting opportunity for a Highways Clerk of Works to join us! This is a full-time, permanent role with hybrid working, and a salary of £39,526 - £43,613.

About us

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM) is set in the wider county of Berkshire, one of the most economically productive and innovative areas of the country. The borough council - a unitary authority - takes pride in its exceptional team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about providing quality services to the community. RBWM is a unique borough, with huge opportunity given its proximity to London and expanding business sectors, as well as being a major cultural and tourism area which includes international attractions such as Windsor Castle, Legoland and Ascot Racecourse.

This is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic Highways Clerk of Works to join our team.

The Role

Reporting to the Infrastructure Planning Manager, this role will lead on site-based quality inspections for all RBWM highway contracts and oversee private estate development and highway improvement schemes (Section 38 and Section 278), ensuring they meet RBWM and national standards. Your role will involve:

  • Manage the highway capital and revenue programmes, ensuring that maintenance, improvement projects, and reactive works are delivered in a cost‑effective manner and provide best value to the Council.
  • Provide strategic oversight of expenditure to secure best value for residents and the Council, while fostering effective partnerships with colleagues, agencies and contractors throughout all stages of scheme development – from the outset of each works package through to completion.
  • Challenge specifications, workmanship, and costs at all stages to ensure transparency and secure best value.
  • Lead the review and delivery of the Section 38 and Section 278 agreement process – from design review and Heads of Terms to Section 210 calculations and technical approval of estate road designs.
  • Work closely with Highways Development Control and specialist advisors to ensure developers deliver works that meet current standards and guidance.
  • Take action to ensure construction is acceptable, adoptable, and supports the long‑term quality of the highway network.

What we are looking for

  • Educated to HNC or equivalent level or demonstrable experience equal to that level.
  • Qualified project or programme manager (or equivalent), with a strong record in account management, work programming, dispute resolution and highways delivery.
  • A CSCS card (Highways Works Skilled Worker or equivalent) and a Street Works Supervisor (NRSWA) card will be required for site access and for supervising works on the adopted highway.
  • Excellent communication skills – both written and verbal.
  • A proactive, enthusiastic self‑starter who works well independently and as part of a team.

What we offer

  • 32 days annual leave.
  • Flexible working including a hybrid working pattern for a better work‑life balance.
  • Generous Local Government Pension scheme includes life cover (3 times of annual salary) and an Additional Voluntary Contribution (AVC) scheme to enhance your pension provision.
  • Free employee parking close to the offices.
  • Give As You Earn Scheme.
  • Instant Reward Scheme to recognise and reward innovative achievement.
  • Employee Assistance Programme providing counselling, advice and information.
  • Access to discounts and deals with hundreds of retailers, including discounted gym memberships and travel deals.

RBWM values a collaborative and inclusive work environment, fostering creativity and innovation in all aspects of its operations. As an equal opportunities' employer, we encourage applications from all as we believe diverse talent makes us stronger. If you have a disability, are a current or former member of the armed forces or have been part of any formal case system up to the age of 25, you will be guaranteed an interview, should you meet the minimum requirements for the role.

If you wish to discuss this position informally, please contact Angela Clack, Infrastructure Planning Manager on angela.clack@RBWM.gov.uk. This is a rolling advert. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews will be scheduled accordingly. We encourage early submissions to ensure you don’t miss this opportunity.

Highways Clerk of Works employer: The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM) is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work environment that values creativity and innovation. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and a robust pension scheme, all while contributing to the community in a culturally rich area close to London. Join us as a Highways Clerk of Works and be part of a dedicated team that ensures the highest standards in highway management and development.

The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation

Contact Details:

The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Highways Clerk of Works

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the highways and infrastructure sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to meet people who can give you the inside scoop on job openings.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching RBWM and its projects. Show that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for quality service and how you can contribute to their goals.

Tip Number 3

Practice your communication skills! As a Highways Clerk of Works, you'll need to articulate your ideas clearly. Consider mock interviews with friends or use online resources to refine your pitch.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the RBWM team.

We think you need these skills to ace Highways Clerk of Works

Quality Inspections
Highway Contracts Management
Cost-Effective Project Delivery
Strategic Oversight of Expenditure
Partnership Development
Specification Review
Technical Approval of Designs

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for the Highways Clerk of Works role. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!

Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key for this role, don’t shy away from showcasing your written and verbal skills in your application. Use clear and concise language to demonstrate your ability to convey information effectively.

Highlight Your Proactive Nature:We love a self-starter! In your application, share examples of how you've taken initiative in past roles or projects. This will show us that you’re enthusiastic and ready to tackle challenges head-on.

Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us without a hitch, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details and can consider you for this exciting opportunity!

How to prepare for a job interview at The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on the specifics of highways management and the relevant standards. Familiarise yourself with Section 38 and Section 278 agreements, as well as the key responsibilities of a Highways Clerk of Works. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you understand it inside out.

Showcase Your Experience

Prepare to discuss your previous projects and how you've managed budgets, timelines, and quality inspections. Use specific examples that highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to work collaboratively with contractors and stakeholders. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and strategic thinking.

Ask Smart Questions

Come prepared with insightful questions about the role and the team dynamics at RBWM. Inquire about their current projects or challenges they face in highway management. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.

Communicate Clearly

Since excellent communication skills are a must for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Whether it's discussing technical details or your past experiences, being able to convey your ideas effectively will leave a positive impression on the interviewers.