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Historic buildings inspector/conservation officer : Salary and conditions

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Case studies

  • Range of typical starting salaries: £18,000 - £26,000.
  • Range of typical salaries for those with experience and/or qualifications: £26,000 - £36,000.
  • Range of typical salaries at senior level: £40,000+.
  • Salaries vary considerably according to the location, sector and size of the employing organisation, with salaries normally higher in London. Higher earnings are possible with progression to senior management or head of department positions.
  • Working hours vary according to the role and the sector, with working hours in the public sector being nine to five, Monday though Friday, working a 35 - 40 hour week. Flexi-time and other benefits, including a final salary pension scheme are sometimes available. In the private sector hours are more likely to vary, with extra hours and overtime possible although weekend working is unlikely.
  • Although usually based in offices, much of the work is outdoors and on-site. Site visits and inspections are conducted outside in all weathers. 
  • There may be considerable travel within a working day, and absence from home overnight may occasionally be necessary. A company car is not usually offered, but mileage for site visits may be payable.
  • Jobs exist throughout the UK, although work is likely to be regional with historic buildings inspectors based in regional centres of government or public bodies; and conservation officers based in local authorities across the UK.
  • Opportunities for work or travel overseas is uncommon, but may be available for experienced professionals involved in special projects organised by professional bodies.
  • Self-employment or freelance work is sometimes possible. For experienced professionals there are increasing opportunities for historic building consultancy. Part-time work or career breaks may be possible in some organisations.
  • Women continue to be under-represented in the profession, as according to the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) only 36% of members are female. However the Institute reports that there has been an increase in recent years of female membership and also of woman enrolling on historic building conservation courses, so this figure is expected to rise.
  • A reasonable level of fitness and mobility is required as the work can be physically demanding. Site inspections may involve working at heights, climbing ladders, or visiting sites where access is difficult.
  • Appropriate safety equipment, such as protective boots and headgear, must be worn on site.
  • The dress code tends to be conservative for meetings, and it is expected that people in this profession are smartly dressed even when visiting sites.
 
AGCAS
Written by Nick Huston, AGCAS
Date: 
November 2009
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