Bedford Borough features a wealth of rural villages set around the urban areas of Bedford and Kempston. The rural areas are characterised by timber framed and stone buildings, many with thatched roofs, whilst the urban areas have a rich variety of late 18th and 19th century buildings. The Council has a strong commitment to the protection of its 27 conservation areas and 1400 listed buildings.

We are seeking to recruit a Conservation Officer to provide specialist advice on conservation areas, historic buildings and general design issues to inform and improve the development management process. The work will also involve conservation area appraisal and policy development.

You should have a degree or diploma in building conservation, architecture, urban design or a related subject. You should be able to demonstrate an up to date knowledge of planning legislation and areas of government guidance relating to the historic environment as well as knowledge of historic building construction and design.

If you wish to discuss the post please contact Ian Johnson (Heritage and Compliance Manager) either by email: Ian.Johnson@bedford.gov.uk or 01234 718559.

Closing Date: 10th March 2025

Interview Dates: 26th and 27th March 2025

When you are ready to apply, click on ‘Apply for Vacancy’; you will be asked to upload a CV and answer some application questions.  The application questions require a yes/no response.  Please make sure your CV shows how you meet the requirements for the role you are applying for, the job profile below will show the essential selection criteria.  An optional CV template is provided below.  

Please note:

The Council will not normally re-employ ex-employees in receipt of:

·     a severance payment (within 12 months of leaving)

·     a local government pension (applies to Senior Officers only)

unless the appointment is business critical

For further information, please email recruitment.team@bedford.gov.uk

Armed Forces Covenant

Bedford Borough Council is proud to be a member of the Armed Forces Covenant, we pledge to interview any eligible job applicant who meets the minimum criteria for the job they are applying for.

https://www.bedford.gov.uk/your-council/about-council/armed-forces

Disabled applicants

Bedford Borough Council is  a Level 2 Disability Confident employer and guarantees to interview anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the role they are applying for.

https://www.bedford.gov.uk/jobs/more-information-and-how-apply/information-and-guidance-applying-council-vacancies/disability

Care Leavers Covenant

Bedford Borough Council is proud to have signed up to the Care Leavers Covenant.  If you are currently looked after by a local authority or a care leaver (care experienced young person), and under the age of 25, we pledge to guarantee an interview if you meet the minimum criteria for the role you are applying for.

https://mycovenant.org.uk/about/