Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.
Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovate environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.
Looking for an opportunity to earn while you learn and gain the qualifications needed to start a successful career in the construction industry?
Having already recruited and trained 200 people, LABC, the organisation that represents all local authority building control teams in England and Wales, is recruiting additional building control trainees to join their LABC Academy, starting in September 2026.
The LABC Academy Programme is a two-year fully funded programme that provides the opportunity to gain level 4 and level 5 diplomas in building control surveying whilst getting on-the-job experience with a local authority building control department.
Throughout the programme you'll earn a competitive salary and on completion you'll have the skills, qualifications and experience required to become a Registered Building Inspector as well as the opportunity to progress to become a fully qualified Chartered Surveyor or Building Engineer.
Successful candidates will be employed by LABC and based in a local authority close to you to allow you to gain practical experience.
We’re seeking technically minded candidates who like problem solving, are keen to learn and are looking to build a real career in the construction industry.
To apply you will need one of the following:
When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.
If you are interested in this role, please click here to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.
Applications need to be received by the 15th June
If you would like a copy the Job Description, please click here
Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to.
All applicants for this role will require an enhanced DBS check.
Any Successful candidate will be employed by LABC
The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.
We are a mid-sized unitary authority in South East Essex with around 1,800 FTE roles, serving a population of 182,500 residents.
We were very proud to be awarded LGC Council of the Year 2012 and have received a number of other awards including Stonewall Top 100 Employer, RoSPA level 5 and Silver IiP.
We exist to create 'a better Southend': our aims are for our city to be 'Safe', 'Clean', 'Healthy', 'Prosperous' and led by an 'Excellent' organisation.
We are very proud of the differences we make and would welcome you considering joining one of our nationally recognised, award winning teams of talented and hard working individuals.
