Technical Lead – Highways Control (S.278 / S.38)

Our client, in the highways sector, is currently seeking a Technical Lead – Highways Control (S.278 / S.38) to join their team on a contract basis. This role involves providing technical leadership and operational management for their Highway Control function, ensuring compliance with national and local standards for developer-led highway works.

Purpose of Job

To provide technical leadership, professional oversight, and operational management of the Highway Control function, ensuring compliance with standards and suitability for long-term maintenance. Lead on the technical approval process, oversee the preparation and delivery of highway legal agreements, and maintain the Council’s technical standards.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

• 1. Strategic & Operational Leadership
  • Provide clear leadership and management for the Highways Control team, ensuring delivery of service objectives.
  • Translate service and corporate priorities into operational delivery plans.
  • Act as a senior professional lead on highways development matters.
  • Oversee service delivery improvements and efficiencies.
  • Deputise for the Highways Development Management & Control Manager as required.
• 2. People Management
  • Line‑manage staff, including recruitment, supervision, and professional development.
  • Foster a positive and high-performance culture aligned with organisational values.
  • Support workforce resilience and skills development.
  • Provide leadership through organisational change.
• 3. Technical Approval and Standards
  • Act as the technical lead for the approval of highway works under Section 278 and Section 38 of the Highways Act.
  • Ensure all schemes comply with Worcestershire County Council’s adopted highway standards and national standards.
  • Lead the development and maintenance of the Council’s Technical Standards and Guidance.
• 4. Legal Agreements and Governance
  • Oversee the instruction of legal services on S278 and S38 agreements including technical inputs and calculations.
  • Ensure appropriate governance, record keeping, and audit trails for all highway agreements.
  • Provide technical input to reports and senior management briefings.
• 5. Development Management and Stakeholder Engagement
  • Oversee the end‑to‑end S.278 / S.38 processes to ensure efficient project management and delivery.
  • Provide expert technical advice on major development proposals, working closely with planning authorities, developers, and internal teams.
  • Represent the Highway Authority at meetings and public inquiries.
  • Manage relationships with stakeholders, including elected Members and senior developers.
• 6. Performance, Budget, and Continuous Improvement
  • Manage resources within delegated budgets, ensuring value for money and effective use of staff and developer contributions.
  • Monitor and improve performance against agreed service standards.
  • Lead service improvement, innovation, and digital transformation initiatives.

Job Requirements

• Experience with Section 278 and Section 38 agreements.
• Strong background in highways development control.
• Technical leadership and people management skills.
• Expert knowledge of national and local highway standards and regulations.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in managing budgets and resources.
• Commitment to public accountability and ethical governance.

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