A housing officer is employed by a local authority or housing association to oversee the management and maintenance of that entity's housing. Excellent communication skills are required for this role, which involves meeting all kinds of people.
On this page are listed a number of UK recruitment agencies with experience in providing housing officer staff.
While there are no set qualifications for this role, many housing officers possess a level 3 qualification (comparable to an A Level). A foundation or full degree in a subject such as town planning, urban studies or housing will be sought by some employers.
However, personal qualities such as good interpersonal communication skills and organisational ability will be of equal or more value, along with experience that might help with the role.
Experience might be gained by arranging a work placement in a housing department or association, or by being a volunteer for a charitable housing organisation, such as Shelter.
Qualifications, Working Hours and Salary Information
Qualifications from the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), such as Certificates in Housing at levels 2, 3 and 4, may well help in any interview process.
Work hours tend to be around 40 per week, with occasional overtime required. Visits to housing locations may sometimes be needed, but most work is office based.
Salaries of between £20,000 and £27,000 per year are common, with those in senior roles earning between £28,000 and £32,000. Managerial roles can command £50,000.