Job Description
Who we are & what we stand for
Do you want to help make Gateshead a place where everyone thrives? If that sounds like you, keep reading - we might be the perfect match.
We’re delighted that you’re interested in working with us. You’d be joining us at a very exciting time.
We pride ourselves on our ambitious and forward-thinking approach to taking care of Gateshead and its people, and we passionately believe that our employees reflect that spirit in truly enabling Gateshead to thrive.
At Gateshead Council you’d be a highly valued member of a team that recognises and respects the skills that you bring to your role, encourages creativity and passionately advocates a great work / life balance. Our actions speak louder than words, and with flexi-time and hybrid working available across many of our roles, as well as a full suite of outstanding employee benefits, we’re confident that it isn’t just the salary that attracts our staff.
The Climate Change, Compliance, Planning and Transport team are responsible for ensuring that Gateshead is a safe and attractive place in which people can live, work and spend free time. You’ve probably also noticed significant investment in the restoration of the Tyne Bridge, and our Highways team continue to play a pivotal role in that restoration project of a local landmark.
About the role:
You will assist the Highway Design team in its various highways tasks as well as working closely with the general public , Utility providers and local Councillors to provide solutions for new highway schemes. The role is predominantly based in the teams preliminary design and feasibility section for new highway schemes along with carrying out scheme consultations but may also include some detailed design support where required. Good numeracy, literacy and IT skills are essential requirements for the post. Experience with Autocad and knowledge of civil engineering / transport planning procedures would be an advantage.
What you'll get to do:
- Assist in the production and delivery of preliminary and detailed highway design drawings, specifications, contracts and consultations.
- Provide technical support to Engineers in the team to ensure an effective and efficient service is provided.
- Assist with public and stakeholder consultations.
- Work as part of a multi disciplinary design team collaborating with internal and external bodies to ensure high levels of service delivery.
- Update manual and computerised records to ensure a high level of accuracy is maintained and data and reports are produced as and when required.
- Assist in the coordination of team activities in accordance with agreed Council strategies and priorities and to ensure adherence to financial objectives.
- Carry out site inspections under the supervision of Engineers where appropriate.
- Provide a high level of customer service to service users, members of the public and external organisations, via telephone, letter, e mail and in person to ensure an ongoing provision of a high quality service.
- Undertake other duties commensurate with the post grade.
What you'll bring:
- Proficient in AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel and Word. Proficiency in Autodesk Civil 3d would also be beneficial.
- Experience in civil engineering design and site supervision.
- Experience working with stakeholders, suppliers, and external partners.
- Knowledge of highway policies and practices.
- 5 GCSE passes at Grade C or above (or equivalent).
- OR: BTEC National Diploma in Civil Engineering or possession of incorporated engineer status (or equivalent relevant experience).
- OR: Relevant qualification in civil engineering, transport planning, or a related discipline.
- Full UK driving licence.
What’s in it for you
- Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
- Outstanding Pension Scheme: We don’t just offer a great salary – we invest in your future too. Find out what benefits a Local Government Pension provides: https://twpf.info
- Generous Annual Leave: Enjoy 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years (2 of which can be fixed by the Council), plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
- Flexible Working Hours: Benefit from up to 26 flexi days per year (subject to business needs), giving you more control over your time.
- Hybrid & Flexible Working: We support a healthy work-life balance with flexible and hybrid working options.
- Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development, and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
- Health & Wellbeing Support: From discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing.
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay active with our tax-efficient cycle to work programme.
- Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme: Get behind the wheel of a brand-new electric or hybrid vehicle through our salary sacrifice car scheme in partnership with NHS Fleet Solutions – a cost-effective, environmentally friendly way to drive (after 12 months service).
- Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Through our VIVUP employee benefits platform, enjoy discounts on shopping, travel, and services – plus salary sacrifice options on white goods, electronics, and more, helping you spread the cost of essential purchases (after 6 months service).
Our commitment to you
We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to have a culture and a workplace where our people feel a sense of belonging, are respected and empowered to do their best work. At Gateshead Council we are an employer who embraces, and welcomes diversity, who's truly inclusive and who demonstrates equality for all. We'll go the extra mile so that our approach is representative of the communities we serve and each other. We welcome applications from suitably qualified people from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.
How to apply
You can apply online using the link below. Within the form, you’ll be asked for details about you, your career history, skills, experiences and qualifications.
We advise you to be as detailed and specific as possible, paying particular attention to any of the above which are relevant to the role to which you are applying.
If you have any questions about your application, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our recruitment team via recruitment@gateshead.gov.uk
Please note: As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role. However, in high-volume recruitment situations, it may not always be practicable to interview every eligible candidate. In such cases, we may need to prioritise those who best meet the essential criteria, based on the information provided in the application.
Additionally, the Council reserves the right to close this vacancy early or adjust the shortlisting criteria, including the pass mark for interview selection, to ensure a fair and manageable recruitment process. We encourage early applications.