Permit to Work Officer

About the Job

Interview Date - 12 May 2026

As our Permit to Work Officer, you will play a central role in managing the University's Permit to Work process, ensuring that all contractors operate safely, responsibly, and in line with our compliance standards.

You will:

• Act as the first point of contact for contractors attending campus
• Complete pre-visit checks, health & safety verification, and site inductions
• Review and validate risk assessments and method statements
• Issue, manage, and close all Permits to Work
• Conduct on-site safety inspections and address any concerns
• Maintain accurate contractor records using our CAFM system
• Support continuous improvement of our permit and contractor management processes
• Provide guidance and training to internal teams on safe systems of work
• Support the Maintenance department in delivering an excellent staff and student experience
• Support with maintenance stock and work allocation

You'll be a key contributor to maintaining a safe, well-managed University estate that supports students, staff, and visitors.

The Postholder will be a key member of the Estates & Campus Services Department which comprises the following areas;

• Campus Services (1st Degree Services)
• Timetabling & Space Management
• Projects
• Buildings Services (1st Degree Services)
• Catering (1st Degree Services)
• Commercial
• Residential Services
• Security & Community Safety (1st Degree Services)
• Environment & Sustainability
• Property Management

1st Degree Services are a part of University of Northampton Enterprises Ltd (UNEL) a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of Northampton.

About you

The successful candidate will have;

• An understanding of health & safety in an Estates or facilities management setting
• Confidence managing contractors in a live operational environment
• Organised, calm under pressure, and comfortable working independently
• Experience in using a CAFM system
• Excellent communicator
• Proactive with the willingness to monitor Contractors on site

Qualifications

Essential;

• IOSH Managing Safely Qualification / NEBOSH or equivalent

Desirable;

• Facilities Management Qualification

1st Degree Facilities

At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.

1st Degree Facilities is a trading name of UNEL which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the University of Northampton and this vacancy is covered by UNEL Terms and Conditions of employment.

Our People

Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first-rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.

Our Values

• Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.
• Sustainability: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.
• Aspiration: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.
• Trust: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.

Together, we are creating a future where our community, our work, and our impact truly make a difference.

Right to work

All candidates will be asked to provide proof of eligibility to work in the UK at interview. Due to the requirements laid out by UK Visas and Immigration regarding Right to Work in the UK, the University of Northampton Enterprises Ltd can only accept applications from individuals who currently have a status allowing them to work in the UK for this position. Due to this criteria, we regret that we are unable to offer sponsorship at this time.

Equality

We welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups.

The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.

Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion

affirms our dedication to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. We aim to foster a space where all can thrive, aligning with our mission to transform lives and inspire change.

Commitments Include:

1. Creating an Inclusive Environment: Adopting a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive.
2. Supporting Students and Staff: Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence, and ensuring academic and professional support.
3. Tackling Inequalities: Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis, and supporting networks for protected characteristics.

UON's Major Commitments:

• Disability Confident
• Stand-alone Pledge
• IHRA Working Definition

For more details, visit: Equality and Diversity at UON