Historic Buildings Officer

Surrey County Council; Old Woking; Hybrid; GBP 33,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Old Woking is seeking a qualified Historic Buildings Officer to support its Historic Buildings service. The candidate will oversee a diverse range of historic structures, providing expertise in conservation and planning. A degree in a heritage-related subject and strong knowledge of UK architecture are essential for this role. The position offers a salary between £33,552 and £45,135, alongside extensive benefits including generous leave and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

26 days' holiday, rising to 31 days after 5 years

Option to buy additional annual leave

Local government salary-related pension

Employee Assistance Programme for health and wellbeing

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of UK architecture and architectural history.
• Experience in investigating, assessing, and conserving historic buildings.
• Enthusiasm for learning and empathy for the subject.

Responsibilities

• Advise on historic sites ranging from medieval buildings to cold war structures.
• Support and develop the Historic Buildings service.
• Assess and manage heritage landscapes within the planning process.

Skills

Knowledge of UK architecture and architectural history

Problem-solving skills for complex historic sites

Excellent written and communication skills

Confidence using Microsoft Office and GIS applications

Education

Degree in a heritage-related subject (History, Archaeology, or Architectural Studies)

Associate membership of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation

Job description

Overview

Surrey County Council is the County Planning Authority, responsible for planning applications relating to minerals, waste, and the Council's own development proposals, including Education and Highways. We are seeking a Historic Buildings Officer to support and develop our Historic Buildings service.

The work is varied: you may advise on sites ranging from medieval domestic buildings to 18th‑century landscapes or Cold War structures. Based in Woking, with opportunities for agile working, this role suits a qualified heritage specialist keen to grow their skills in assessing, conserving, and managing historic buildings, conservation areas, and heritage landscapes within the planning process.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of UK architecture and architectural history, with experience in investigating, assessing, and conserving historic buildings and areas. This is a Personal Development Plan‑linked post, with appointment possible across several grade scales depending on experience. A degree in a heritage‑related subject (such as History, Archaeology, or Architectural Studies) is required, along with enthusiasm for learning and empathy for the subject. Applicants should be at least Associate members of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation.

• Educated to degree level in a relevant subject, with a demonstrable passion for the historic environment
• Have a well‑developed and broad knowledge of British architecture and historic buildings, and an understanding of the planning process
• Evidence of problem‑solving with regards to complex, phased historic sites
• Excellent written and communication skills and be confident at using Microsoft Office and GIS applications
• Full, valid UK driving licence

How to Apply

To apply, we request that you submit a CV, and a personal statement of no more than two pages which outlines the reasons for your interest in this role and your relevant qualifications and experience of historic buildings management.

Local Government Reorganisation

Surrey County Council is undergoing Local Government Reorganisation, moving from a two‑tier system to two new unitary councils in April 2027. If you are employed by Surrey on 1st April 2027, your role will transfer with current terms and conditions to one of the new organisations, supporting local devolution and greater powers for our communities.

Employment Details

This role has a salary range of £33,552 - £45,135 per annum based on a 36‑hour working week.

Our Offer to You

• 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 dependent leave
• An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
• Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources
• Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, and shopping
• A chance to make a real difference to the lives of our residents.

Commitment

Please see more information here: Information for applicants on Local Government Reorganisation - Surrey County Council.