Wirral Council is a place where you can genuinely make a difference, guided by strong organisational values that shape everything we do. Our values—ambitious, professional, resident‑focused and accountable—act as our organisational DNA, influencing how we work, lead and support one another every day. We take pride in delivering great services, acting with integrity, building positive relationships, and always putting residents first, creating a supportive and inclusive culture where everyone can “be the best we can be”. With our beautiful surroundings, ambitious future plans and a commitment to empowering staff, Wirral Council offers an inspiring environment to grow your career and make a lasting impact.
Highway Inspection Manager
About the Role
As our Highways Inspection Manager, you will take operational responsibility for the management of the Council’s highway inspection service, overseeing strategic highways contracts and leading a dedicated team of apprentices, inspectors and team leaders. You’ll ensure inspection programmes are delivered on time, to budget, and in line with statutory requirements—including Section 41/58 Highways Act duties—and you will act as the Council’s lead officer for third‑party highway claims, representing Wirral Council in court when required.
This role also carries special responsibility for managing the Council’s Highways Winter Service, including decision‑making on forecast data, directing operational responses, and acting as Senior Duty Officer on a rotational basis.
What You’ll Be Doing
* Leading and developing a proactive, high‑performing inspection team.
* Managing the delivery of highway safety, serviceability and compliance inspections.
* Ensuring all contractor activity is monitored, meets standards, and delivers value for money.
* Coordinating responses to customer enquiries and supporting neighbourhood‑based working.
* Overseeing training, competence and development of inspection staff.
* Providing robust evidence to support the Council’s Section 58 defence against claims.
* Working closely with internal and external partners, including utility companies, tree management teams and contractors.
* Managing operational data to support asset planning and strategic decisions.
* Leading the Winter Service operations, including directing treatments and managing budgets.
* Ensuring strict compliance with health and safety, GDPR, corporate governance and all relevant legislation.
About You
We’re looking for someone who brings strong leadership, technical expertise, and confidence in decision‑making. You will thrive in a fast‑paced environment, often dealing with competing priorities and high levels of responsibility.
Qualifications
* HNC/HND in Highway or Civil Engineering (or equivalent).
* ILM Level 3 or similar leadership qualification.
* Street Works and Health & Safety qualifications.
* Strong understanding of highway legislation, inspections, materials and maintenance practices.
* Experience overseeing highway inspection teams and working with term maintenance contractors.
* Knowledge of Winter Service operations and interpreting complex weather data.
* Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence, collaborate and negotiate.
Desirable qualifications include degree‑level technical study, professional membership (CIHT/ICE), and IT‑related credentials.
Benefits
Staff benefits include discounts, enrolment into the local government pension scheme (defined benefit), immediate life cover and ill‑health protection. A flexible working approach, hybrid working, family‑friendly employment initiatives and an annual leave package starting with 28 days leave plus public holidays are also available.
Contact
Contact Linda Summers at lindasummers@wirral.gov.uk for further information.
Eligibility to Work in the UK
Eligibility to work in the UK will be verified in the final stages of the selection process. All candidates must either already have a right to work in the UK before commencing employment or meet the Home Office criteria for visa sponsorship. Candidates who require sponsorship should evaluate the Home Office eligibility criteria for a Skilled Worker visa before applying.
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