Overview
Join to apply for the Affordable Housing Officer role at Somerset Council.
Location: hybrid working with base in Taunton, Bridgwater, Shepton Mallet or Yeovil. The exact location will be agreed with the successful candidate and line manager. This is a 12 Month Secondment or Fixed Term contract. 30 days' annual leave (in addition to bank holidays) pro rata.
What will I be doing?
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an organised and self-motivated person to join the Affordable Housing Team. We’re working to improve the lives of people in Somerset – and you’ll be a key part of that. As an Affordable Housing Officer, you will play a crucial role within the Housing General Fund directorate, focusing on the development and delivery of affordable housing solutions across Somerset. This role will ensure affordable housing proposals are integrated and built to deliver against housing need, creating safe, healthy homes and encouraging diverse and sustainable communities.
Your day-to-day work will involve:
* Representing the Council as a lead specialist for affordable housing.
* Providing specialist advice, technical guidance, and strategic leadership on affordable housing projects.
* Collaborating with providers to initiate housing developments, unblock barriers and actively work through creative solutions to influence the type and quantity of affordable housing.
* Working with key stakeholders to secure the delivery of affordable housing.
* Engaging with local communities, responding to and acting upon local affordable housing matters.
Qualifications and experience
We offer ongoing support, training and guidance to help you be the best you can be. It will really help if you:
* Are educated to Degree Level standard or 3-5 years equivalent experience.
* Have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to consult, influence and negotiate whilst multitasking and working under pressure.
* Have experience in negotiating contractual terms with external parties and maintaining effective relationships with stakeholders, agencies and local communities.
* Have experience in writing and presenting reports to diverse audiences.
Equal opportunity and inclusion
We’re proud to be here for the people of Somerset. We are diverse and inclusive and welcome applications from a range of backgrounds to enrich our team. You can contact the hiring manager for an informal chat before you apply.
What’s in it for me?
We offer an environment that is supportive and rewarding, with opportunities for training and development, and a management team that values work-life balance. Benefits include:
* Flexible working arrangements, including working from home where possible.
* Generous annual leave, with the option to purchase additional leave.
* Staff discounts in gyms.
* Employee Assistance and wellbeing services.
* Auto-enrolment into a generous Pension Scheme with optional AVC.
* Flexible Benefits Scheme via salary sacrifice for cycle to work and health screenings.
* My Staff Shop discounts across various shops and services.
How to apply and other details
For an informal chat about the role, contact Jo Humble, Head of Service – Affordable Housing, on 07808 847 361 or jo.humble@somerset.gov.uk.
A Personal Statement should be completed. A CV without a completed personal statement will not be accepted. When completing your application/CV please provide your full employment history and explain any gaps. Start with your current or most recent employment.
Interview week commencing Monday 22 September 2025. Salary £26,430 to £29,483 per annum for 30 hours.
If you have all the information you need, just hit the apply button - we can’t wait to hear from you.
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