Overview
Ready to work across a large, varied authority with a diverse mix of projects - from historic buildings to major new developments? Take the lead on some of the most complex and high‑profile building projects in Somerset, playing a critical role in protecting communities and raising standards across the built environment. As Principal Building Control Surveyor, you'll combine your technical expertise with strategic leadership - overseeing major developments, managing a highly skilled team, and ensuring that compliance and safety remain at the forefront of everything we do. This rare opportunity allows you to step into a senior, influential role within Somerset Council, help shape how the service evolves, build strong relationships across the industry, and make a visible, lasting impact at scale.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the operational management of the Building Control service, including line management of approximately 15 staff
* Act as lead officer on major projects, dangerous structures, and complex enforcement matters
* Ensure compliance with Building Regulations, statutory duties, and Building Safety Regulator requirements
* Manage workloads, resources, and performance to meet key performance indicators and service standards
* Support, mentor, and develop staff, including training plans and competency development
* Represent the Council in legal proceedings and high‑level enforcement actions
* Lead on marketing and business development to grow and retain service users
* Manage financial performance including budget monitoring, revenue review, and fee negotiation
* Deputise for the Head of Building Control as required
* Provide expert technical advice and leadership across the organisation and to external partners
Qualifications and Requirements
* Ensure the service meets Operational Standards Rules and ISO 9001 quality requirements; understand the strategic needs of the service and apply a robust knowledge of the Building Regulations (and associated legislation) to fulfil statutory duties and the Operational Standards Rules set by the Building Safety Regulator
* Previous management experience
* Exercise judgement and make balanced assessments using standard technical guidance and specialist knowledge to put forward rational, evidence‑based recommendations
* Apply robust specialist knowledge of the Building Regulations to ensure all projects achieve the required level of compliance, including key life‑safety decisions and technical expertise for safe buildings
* Represent the service in legal proceedings and lead on effective enforcement where required
* Operate as a Registered Building Inspector and carry out tasks under the Building Inspector Competency Framework
* Operationally manage the service to ensure all Registered Building Inspectors and other staff provide a competent, highly technical service to clients and achieve the Council’s statutory duty
* Advising senior management and elected members on relevant complex and specialist buildings, ensuring statutory needs are met
* Manage staff, support the Head of Building Control, and represent the authority in all required functions
* Conduct all necessary site inspections, surveys, and meetings away from the office, climb ladders, work in confined spaces, and enter typical construction site environments
* Achieve or work towards a minimum of Class 2 (higher) registration – note the offer is subject to this being achieved prior to April 2024
* Excellent oral and written communication skills, sufficient to write technical reports and associated correspondence
* Write clearly, succinctly, and correctly; structure information logically; and utilise technology to achieve work objectives
Desirable Qualifications
* 7 years’ Building Control experience, either with a local authority or a private organisation
* Degree, HNC or degree equivalent in a construction‑related discipline
* Membership of a professional body such as RICS, CABE or CIOB
Benefits
* This role offers hybrid working, allowing you to work either from home or from one of our offices
* 30 days’ annual leave, plus bank holidays
* Development opportunities
* Permanent role – 37 hours a week
* Grade 8 salary of £49,282 and a time‑limited recruitment allowance of £7,500 per annum until 31 10 2028
Regretfully, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
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