Senior Conservation Officer

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Senior Conservation Officer to join a busy and ambitious Development Management team. This role is ideal for a heritage professional passionate about protecting and enhancing the historic environment while contributing to planning and regeneration objectives.

You will provide expert advice on planning applications, heritage assessments, and conservation area management, playing a key part in shaping decisions that balance preservation with development.

• Provide technical advice on heritage and conservation matters for planning applications and pre-application enquiries.

• Contribute to strategic planning policies related to heritage conservation.

• Undertake site surveys and assessments for listed building consent and conservation area designation.

• Advise developers, agents, and applicants on conservation principles and planning procedures.

• Draft detailed reports, recommendations, and statements for planning decisions and appeals.

• Represent the local authority in hearings, inquiries, and enforcement proceedings.

• Carry out site inspections, including working at height where required.

• A recognised qualification in Historic Environment Conservation or a closely related discipline (or equivalent experience).

• Sound knowledge of planning legislation, policy, and best practices in heritage management.

• Previous experience working within planning or conservation teams, especially in a development context.

• Excellent communication and report-writing skills.

• Full UK driving licence and ability to travel locally as needed.

• Familiarity with IT systems including Microsoft Office and planning software.

• Experience with enforcement action relating to heritage breaches.

• Understanding of local government planning processes and decision-making.

• A competitive salary package.

• Hybrid working arrangements.

• A chance to work on diverse and meaningful heritage projects.

• Supportive and collaborative team culture.

• Opportunities for continued professional development.