Principal Historic Buildings Officer Starting salary: £53,713 per annum (36‑hour week). Location: Woking, with hybrid working – office attendance at least 2 days per week. Our Offer
26 days' holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years' service and 31 days after 5 years' service Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave A generous local government salary‑related pension Up to 5 days of carer's leave and 2 paid volunteering days per year Paternity, adoption and dependents leave An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing Learning and development hub with access to a wealth of resources Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, and shopping A chance to make a real difference to the lives of residents
About The Role Surrey County Council is looking for a Principal Historic Buildings Officer to manage, promote and enhance its Historic Buildings service. Based within the Council's Historic Environment Planning Team at Woking, you will develop, grow and apply your skills in the assessment, understanding and management of historic buildings and conservation areas within the planning context, while managing a small team of dedicated buildings specialists. The successful candidate will be an experienced conservation and buildings specialist with a strong track record in delivering timely, efficient and pragmatic planning‑related services. You will be familiar with the architecture and architectural history of Surrey and the UK generally, and have thorough knowledge of the investigation, assessment, conservation and management of historic buildings and conservation areas. A degree in a suitable heritage‑related subject (History, architectural studies, historic building conservation, archaeology) is required, as is extensive experience in advising and guiding the management of a wide range of historic buildings, conservation areas and designed landscapes. We are particularly looking for applicants who can demonstrate how they would develop this role further, expand the current service into new thematic and geographic areas, and have experience in contract management as well as a talent for developing projects and attracting grant funding. They should be able to navigate stakeholder engagement effectively, ranging from the public to professionals and elected members. Key Skills and Qualifications
Educated to degree level in a relevant subject, with a passion for and extensive experience in advising and managing aspects of the built historic environment Full membership of the IHBC Broad and detailed knowledge of British Architecture, Designed Landscapes and Archaeology, and a deep understanding of the planning process surrounding heritage management Excellent IT skills, confident use of Microsoft Office and GIS applications Provision of examples of service development
Travel across the county is required. How to Apply Submit a CV and personal statement. The job advert closes at 23:59 on 31/05/2026 with interviews planned to follow. Our Commitment
We are a disability‑confidence employer; if you disclose a disability on your application and meet the minimum criteria, we guarantee an interview. We support you from application to your first day with any adjustments you need and welcome inclusion and belonging.
Contact For questions about the role, flexible working, transferable skills or barriers to employment, contact Tony Howe, Historic Environment Planning Manager, via email. #J-18808-Ljbffr