Clerk of Works

Location: Chelmsford, Essex
Contract: Interim

About the role

Our client, a county council in Essex, is looking for an experienced Clerk of Works to join its property and construction team in Chelmsford on an interim contract. The role provides on-site quality assurance for building projects, making sure work is delivered in line with the specification, drawings and relevant regulations.

You will act as the council’s eyes and ears on site, inspecting workmanship and materials, monitoring progress and reporting any defects or deviations from the contract. You will work closely with project managers, contractors, designers and other professionals, keeping accurate records and raising issues early so they can be resolved before they affect cost, programme or quality.

The role covers a mix of new build, refurbishment and maintenance projects across the council’s estate. The successful candidate will be confident making independent site judgements, comfortable challenging contractors where standards fall short and clear in documenting what has been seen and agreed.

Main responsibilities

• Inspect construction works on site to confirm compliance with drawings, specifications, contract documents and building regulations
• Monitor the quality of workmanship and materials, and check that testing and sampling requirements are met
• Identify defects, non-compliance and deviations, and report them promptly to the project team
• Keep accurate site records, including daily diaries, inspection reports, progress photographs and instructions issued
• Monitor contractor progress against programme and report on delays and risks
• Attend site meetings and contribute to progress and quality reporting
• Check variations and instructions against the contract and support the project manager with valuation information where required
• Support the management of health and safety on site and report unsafe working practices
• Take part in pre-completion inspections, snagging and handover, and follow up outstanding defects
• Liaise with contractors, consultants, building control and other stakeholders to keep projects moving

Requirements

Essential

• Proven experience as a Clerk of Works on construction, refurbishment or maintenance projects
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials and building regulations
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications and contract documents
• Experience of inspecting and recording work on site, and producing clear written reports
• Confident communicator, able to deal with contractors and professionals at all levels
• Good understanding of site health and safety requirements
• Good IT skills, including reporting and record-keeping systems
• Able to travel to sites across the county as required

Desirable

• Membership of the Institute of Clerk of Works and Construction Inspectorate (ICWCI), or a relevant construction qualification
• Experience of working on public sector, education or other local authority projects
• Experience of working on a contract basis

The offer

• Interim contract with a county council
• Based in Chelmsford, Essex
• Varied project portfolio across the council’s estate
• Rate and contract length to be confirmed with candidates

This role suits an experienced Clerk of Works who is comfortable working independently on site and holding quality standards across a range of projects. If you are looking for your next interim assignment in Chelmsford, apply below.