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- Tasks: Engage with heritage planning and work on exciting development projects in historic Cambridge.
- Company: Join the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning team, a collaborative and innovative environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy a four-day work week, competitive salary, and inclusive workplace culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on preserving heritage while shaping the future of Cambridge.
- Qualifications: Degree in built heritage and experience in UK planning legislation required.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities in a dynamic, supportive team.
The predicted salary is between 42924 - 50113 £ per year.
Job Description
Join the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning team as a Principal Conservation Officer. We are looking for an experienced Conservation Officer to join our team, who can hit the ground running and engage with the demands and variety of development in the historic city of Cambridge and its surrounding areas.
The successful candidate will have a degree or postgraduate qualification in a built heritage related subject, a good understanding of UK heritage-related planning legislation and policy, and considerable relevant work experience. IHBC Full membership (or relevant equivalent) is desirable.
The role involves responding to application consultations, preparing conservation area appraisals, and working on major development proposals, college decarbonisation, local listing, city heat network, and site allocation projects. The team is part of the multi-disciplinary Design & Environment Advisory Service of Greater Cambridge Shared Planning, a shared service between Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council.
The council offers a four-day week, with the expectation that colleagues will complete 100% of their work in around 85% of their contracted hours, for 100% of their pay. The salary for this role is £42,924 – £50,113 (Grade 6) pa, and it is a full-time, permanent position.
For more information, please contact Christian Brady, Historic Environment Team Leader on 07514 925897. The closing date for applications is 9am on 6th October 2025, and interviews will take place the week commencing 20th October 2025.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all qualified candidates. We are committed to diverse and inclusive workplaces.
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Greater Cambridge Shared Planning: Principal Conservation Officer employer: The Institute Of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC)
Contact Detail:
The Institute Of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Greater Cambridge Shared Planning: Principal Conservation Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the conservation field, especially those connected to Greater Cambridge Shared Planning. Attend local events or webinars to make connections and show your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK heritage-related planning legislation. We recommend creating a list of key topics and discussing them with a friend or mentor to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight specific projects you've worked on that relate to conservation area appraisals or major development proposals.
✨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 Greater Cambridge Shared Planning team.
We think you need these skills to ace Greater Cambridge Shared Planning: Principal Conservation Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in conservation and built heritage. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects or achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about conservation and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Knowledge of Legislation: Since this role involves UK heritage-related planning legislation, make sure to mention your understanding of it in your application. We’re looking for someone who can navigate these waters with ease!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Institute Of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC)
✨Know Your Heritage Legislation
Make sure you brush up on UK heritage-related planning legislation and policy. Being able to discuss specific laws and how they apply to the role will show your expertise and readiness to engage with the demands of the job.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past work that highlight your experience in conservation area appraisals and major development proposals. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and make them impactful.
✨Engage with Local Issues
Familiarise yourself with current projects in Cambridge, such as college decarbonisation and local listing. Demonstrating knowledge of local issues will show your commitment to the community and your ability to hit the ground running.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the team’s projects and future plans. This not only shows your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the position aligns with your career goals.