Job Description

Department: Estates

Reporting to: Senior Surveyor

Grade: 9

Salary: £36,721

Working pattern: Monday to Friday, 35 hours per week

Base: London River House, Gravesend (There will be an expectation to work in the London Office at least once a week

Closing date: 16 October 2026

Who we are:

We are the UK’s biggest port, central to the country’s economy and ambitions for growth. We connect the UK to the world, but we are much more than a conventional port.

We are driven by our purpose to protect and improve the 95 mile stretch of the River Thames which is tidal – from Teddington Lock on the border of Surrey, through the heart of London, Kent, Essex and out to the North Sea.

The role:

As a Graduate Surveyor, you will provide vital support to the Senior Surveyor and the Head of Property in managing the PLA’s diverse property portfolio and landholdings. Your role will include property inspections, report preparation, valuation tasks, and liaising with key internal and external stakeholders, including tenants, licensees, and other departments within the PLA. You will be supported by experienced team members as you work towards your qualification as a Chartered Surveyor.

The PLA’s property portfolio includes both land-side properties and river-based assets. This role offers variety, with responsibilities ranging from preparing reports and valuations to assisting with license and lease agreements. The team is committed to your development, providing guidance and support as you grow in your role.

What we are looking for:

We are looking for a proactive, highly motivated individual who is eager to develop their career in property surveying. The ideal candidate will be someone who can take initiative, communicate effectively, and work well within a team. The ability to think creatively, stay organised, and show attention to detail is essential.

Key responsibilities:

• Assist the Senior Surveyor and Head of Estates with day-to-day property management tasks.
• Attend meetings and liaise with stakeholders, including tenants, licensees, and other internal teams such as Legal, Finance, and Planning.
• Conduct site inspections, prepare detailed inspection notes, and measure facilities.
• Assist with the preparation of basic valuations, property reports, and licence agreements.
• Maintain and organise property documentation, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records.
• Provide support with budgeting, rental reviews, and billing processes.
• Create and manage spreadsheets for property revenue and expenditure.
• Take ownership of specific tasks and assist with ad-hoc duties as required by the Estates Department.

Essential Requirements:

• A good 1st or 2nd class degree in a property-related subject accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or equivalent business/finance degree.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with colleagues and external stakeholders.
• A keen eye for detail and an organized approach to managing tasks.
• Proficiency in IT, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and ideally Teams and SharePoint.
• A willingness to learn, develop, and work towards becoming a Chartered Surveyor.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• A team player with the ability to contribute positively to the team culture.

Desirable Attributes:

• Some knowledge or interest in property management and surveying.
• An understanding of how to manage property portfolios, particularly involving both land and river-based assets.
• Awareness of property legislation and regulations.

What’s in it for you?

Career Development: You will be supported by experienced team members as you work towards your RICS qualification, with opportunities for professional growth and learning.

Variety: Work on a diverse range of property-related tasks, both land and river side, from site inspections to valuation, providing a well-rounded experience.

Collaborative Environment: Join a team where you can share ideas, learn, and grow with others who are equally passionate about property management.

Flexible Working: While some travel is required for site inspections, the role offers flexibility and the opportunity to balance office and site-based work with working from home.

In return, we offer a competitive benefits package:

• 28 days annual leave (plus Bank Holidays)
• Medical Cash Plan (Westfield Health)
• Generous pension - up to 14% employer contribution
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources
• Discounted gym memberships and cycle to work scheme
• Salary sacrifice car scheme (Tusker Cars)
• Reward and recognition portal, with access to a range of discounts

For further information or if you would like to have an informal discussion about the position, please contact Katy Davison, (Senior Surveyor) at Katy.Davison@pla.co.uk.

Inclusion Statement

The PLA are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Candidates will be assessed against the essential requirements for the role. Where candidates can demonstrate relevant transferable skills and experience, we encourage them to apply.

The PLA are not registered with the UK Home Office and do not sponsor candidates who require a visa or work permit to work in the UK, therefore an offer of employment cannot be made unless you currently hold the rights to live and work in the UK.