Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser

Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government

Bristol, Darlington, London, Manchester or Wolverhampton

  • Location Bristol, Darlington, London, Manchester or Wolverhampton
  • Sector Central Government
  • Client Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
  • Job Type Fixed Term Contract
  • Salary/Remuneration £120,000 – £139,000 (3 year fixed term or secondment)
  • Reference GSe130633
  • Closing Date 5pm Monday 13th April 2026

At the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), we are at the heart of the government’s mission to drive growth, rebuild Britain and raise living standards. Our work spans some of the country’s most significant responsibilities; from housing and planning to resilience, fire safety and the long‑term stewardship of the built environment. With more than 3,500 colleagues and a broad network of arms‑length bodies, we shape the places people call home and ensure the safety, confidence and trust of communities across the UK. This is an exciting moment to join a department that is investing in bold leadership, scientific excellence and transformative reform.

We are now seeking a Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser to bring authoritative, independent insight to the centre of government. This is a rare opportunity to influence national priorities at a critical time for building safety, engineering assurance and construction culture. The successful candidate will provide expert challenge to Ministers and senior leaders, lead the delivery of high‑quality scientific, engineering and construction evidence, and strengthen how MHCLG stewards risk, resilience and long‑term reform across the built environment. You will act as a bridge between government, industry, academia and regulators; working closely with the Building Safety Regulator, the Chief Scientific Adviser network, and world‑leading experts to support a safer, more competent system.

We are looking for a senior leader with substantial experience across the built environment lifecycle. You will bring authoritative technical knowledge of building safety, engineering, materials science, regulatory frameworks and risk management, and be confident in interpreting complex evidence to shape policy and reform. A proven relationship builder, you will work across industry bodies, regulators, government, academia and residents, using your influence to develop innovative solutions and deliver transformative, long-lasting change. You will be an exceptional communicator, an independent strategic thinker. Experience of government, and/or experience within a registered profession, industry or academia in the built environment, is desirable.

MHCLG is committed to being a diverse and inclusive employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are proud to be a Disability Confident organisation.

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