You could complete a foundation degree or degree in:
- housing studies
- social policy
- building surveying
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
Local government officers work for councils and are responsible for helping to deliver public services and develop policies that benefit communities. Their roles are varied and can include areas such as housing, education, social services, planning, and environmental health. Local government officers often act as the link between elected councillors and the public, helping to implement council decisions and manage projects. Duties may involve handling funding applications, supporting local initiatives, preparing reports, and ensuring services meet legal requirements. This career suits people who are organised, good at problem-solving, and keen to make a difference in their local area. The role offers a clear path for progression, with opportunities to specialise or move into management.
The average salary for a local government officer in the UK ranges from £20,000 to £40,000 per year, depending on experience and seniority.
There are approximately 2 million people employed in local government roles across the United Kingdom.
Most local government officers work around 37 hours per week, usually Monday to Friday.
Works within local councils to ensure public health by inspecting businesses, investigating complaints, and enforcing regulations on food safety, housing, and pollution.
Assesses planning applications for building or land use, ensuring developments meet local policies and planning laws, and works with communities to shape the built environment.
Manages social housing provided by local councils, supports tenants, deals with housing applications, and helps resolve issues such as repairs and neighbour disputes.
Start by obtaining at least five GCSEs at grades 4 to 9, including English and maths, as these are typically required for further study or apprenticeships.
Strong GCSEs show you have the basic skills needed for administrative work. Maths and English are especially important, as they are used in many council roles. Some councils may also look for IT or business studies qualifications.
Study for A-levels, a Level 3 BTEC, or similar qualifications in subjects like public services, business, or law to broaden your knowledge and keep your options open.
A-levels or equivalent qualifications are not always required, but they can help you compete for more advanced roles or apprenticeships. Subjects such as government and politics, sociology, or geography are especially relevant.
Look for work experience placements or voluntary roles with your local council or community organisations.
Local councils often offer short-term placements or volunteering opportunities. These let you see how the council is organised and help you develop important skills like teamwork, communication, and organisation.
Build skills such as communication, IT, organisation, and customer service, which are all highly valued in local government roles.
You can develop these skills through part-time jobs, volunteering, or extracurricular activities. Councils value staff who are approachable, organised, and able to work with a diverse range of people.
Search for local government apprenticeships, which combine work and study and can lead to permanent jobs.
Apprenticeships in business administration, customer service, or public services provide hands-on experience and a salary while you gain recognised qualifications. Check council websites and government apprenticeship portals for vacancies.
Apply for entry-level positions such as administrative assistant or trainee officer within your local council.
These roles give you practical experience of council work and can lead to more senior positions. Use your CV to highlight your qualifications, work experience, and relevant skills.
Take part in professional development and training offered by the council to move into specialist or management positions.
Many councils offer on-the-job training or support for professional qualifications, such as those from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy or the Institute of Leadership and Management.
With experience, apply for more senior roles such as department manager, policy officer, or specialist officer.
Senior positions require a good understanding of council policies and procedures, as well as leadership skills. Gaining experience in different departments can also help you progress.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Local Government Officer. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A Housing officer works within local government to manage and oversee housing services, policies, and tenant relations, which aligns closely with the responsibilities of a Local Government Officer. Both roles involve working within local authorities to serve the community and ensure local policies are effectively implemented.
You can get into this job through:
You could complete a foundation degree or degree in:
You'll usually need:
You can do a college course, which would give you some of the skills needed to get a trainee position. Courses include:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
You could apply to do an apprenticeship with a housing organisation or local authority housing department.
These include:
You could also apply for a place on a Policy Officer Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship, if you want to work in a policy development role.
You'll usually need:
You may be able to start as a housing or admin assistant and work your way up. You could do this through on-the-job training leading to a qualification like the Level 2 or 3 Certificate in Housing Practice, offered by the Chartered Institute of Housing.
You may find it useful to get some work experience with a housing charity, local tenants' association or community organisation. This could help when you apply for housing officer jobs.
You can search for voluntary opportunities in your area through Do it and The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO).
You may be able to apply to a local authority or housing association for a place on a graduate training scheme, like the GEM programme. This is open to graduates of any subject and non graduates who are already working in housing.
You could work for a local authority, a housing association or a charity like Shelter. You could also work for a university student accommodation service or property company.
You can get more advice about careers and training in housing from the Chartered Institute of Housing.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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