Conservation Officer

Summary The National Trust has legal covenants over c.36,000 ha of iconic landscapes and significant historic buildings across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They enable us to protect the historic characters of buildings and landscapes from inappropriate development.
As a Conservation Officer, you’ll lead in assessing applications for change, from property owners subject to National Trust Restrictive Covenants, and the monitoring of covenanted properties and negotiating any proposed changes to sites by their owners. Part of your role is also to advise on the design and impact on the heritage or special qualities as well as enforcing against unauthorised change. Taking a lead in the region for the ongoing management of covenant archives and records, and in the recruitment, development and collaboration with volunteers to support this work.
This is a part-time opportunity of 22.5hrs a week and being offered on a fixed term contract until the end of February 2026. The salary associated with this role is the region of £35K to 37K (pro rata). 
Internally this role is known as 'Covenants Officer'. What it's like to work here Your contractual location is flexible across Yorkshire, Manchester, Cheshire or Liverpool we're happy for you to work at any of our regional hubs or properties, that are appropriate for this role and there will be an opportunity to explore and agree a hybrid working arrangement, which strikes the right balance for you and the Trust.
Whilst this role sits in our Land and Nature Directorate, drawing on the expertise of our land and estate managers, it will also work closely with the diverse range of expertise and skills that sit within our national consultancy, enabling our covenanted places to benefit from an outstanding range of creative and forward thinking, as well as a deep expertise in legal and design matters. #2024010840 What you'll be doing Dealing with enquiries from owners of covenanted property wishing to make changes, you’ll be meeting owners on site to discuss their proposals, balancing the views of key staff such as Curators, Estate and General Managers. Preparing written reports with recommended actions for those responsible for final decision making, You’ll be working with external partners, such as local planning authorities,  developing and maintaining consistent professional relationships. Working effectively with your internal colleagues and training property teams in the management of covenants.
Who we're looking for •A degree or equivalent experience in Building or Architectural Conservation, Architecture or Landscape Architecture, Building Design or Planning •Experience of building or landscape conservation work •In-depth knowledge of historic buildings (particularly vernacular) and landscapes •Experience in assessing heritage building and landscape significance or heritage values and relevant knowledge of heritage and planning legislation •The ability to apply design principles in heritage settings and a creative and innovative approach to managing development relating to heritage or other buildings or to new development in special landscapes •Experience of delivering expert advice in reaching design solutions •Excellent organisational skills and be able to devise and maintain record and monitoring management systems •Excellent influencing and negotiating skills
The package

The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Tax free childcare scheme

• Rental deposit loan scheme

• Season ticket loan

• Perks at work discounts i.e. gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts

• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Employee assistance programme

• Free parking at most locations

• Independent financial advice

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.