Local Government Officer
Job Description:Local government officers work with the council to deliver local services.
Job Category:What you will do:
Depending on your level of responsibility, your day-to-day duties may include:
- managing and evaluating projects
- writing reports and briefing papers
- dealing with enquiries and giving advice
- presenting information at meetings
- supervising administrative work and managing clerical staff
- keeping records
- preparing and managing contracts
- dealing with other agencies
- managing budgets and funding
Skills:
You’ll need:
- business management skills
- number skills, for working with statistics, invoices and budgets
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
As well as:
- negotiating skills & organisational skills
- a logical approach to solving problems
- accuracy and attention to detail
- the ability to analyse and interpret information
- customer service skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- the ability to use your initiative (ambition/drive)
- the ability to organise your time and workload
Entry Requirements:
To become a Local Government Officer, there are no specific GCSE (or equivalent) subjects that are universally required. However, there are certain skills and qualifications that can be beneficial for this role. Local Government Officers play a crucial role in the effective functioning of local government offices. Here are some relevant subjects and skills:
- English: Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential for producing reports, handling correspondence, and communicating with colleagues and the public.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are important for tasks like budgeting, financial analysis, and data interpretation.
- IT and Computer Skills: Proficiency in using office software like Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and email is crucial for administrative tasks.
- Business Studies: Subjects related to business, administration, or public administration can provide a foundational understanding of government processes and practices.
- Public Administration or Politics (if available): While not common, coursework in public administration or politics can offer insights into how local governments operate.
Post School
There are no set requirements however, for some roles you’ll need a degree or specific qualifications like town planning, urban design or historic building conservation.
It can help if you have knowledge of office software packages and experience in working in a customer service environment.
You could also start as an admin assistant and work your way up to more senior roles.
Your local authority may run development programmes or management training schemes for graduates of any subject.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll usually work 35 to 37 hours a week, Monday to Friday. You may occasionally need to work extra hours to complete a project, or go to evening meetings.
You’ll be based in an office that may be open to the public. You may need to travel within your local authority area to go to meetings, or to visit other council offices or sites.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could progress into management.
You could also move into other public sector areas like the government medical or the voluntary sector.