How to become a local government officer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
- a graduate training scheme
University
You may need to do a degree or a job-specific qualification, depending on the department you want to work in. Subjects include:
- town planning
- urban design
- historic building conservation
- housing
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could do a college course before applying directly for this role.
Courses include:
- Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Business Administration
- Level 3 Diploma in Business Administration
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You could get into this job through an apprenticeship. The exact apprenticeship will depend on your duties but examples include:
- intermediate or advance apprenticeship in business or administration
- public service operational delivery officer advanced apprenticeship
These usually take between 12 and 18 months to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Work
You could start in local government as an administrative assistant and work your way up to more senior positions through training on the job. Experience in office work would be useful.
Direct Application
You can apply for jobs directly if you've got the right skills and experience. Some local authorities may ask for at least 4 GCSEs, A levels, or equivalent qualifications, depending on the vacancy.
For certain jobs, you may need a degree or specific professional qualification in an area like town planning or public policy.
Knowledge of common office software packages and experience in working in customer service are also valued by employers, and could help your career prospects.
Other Routes
You may be able to join a local authority's National Graduate Development Programme if you've got a first class or upper second class degree. Most subjects are acceptable.
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Career tips
You may be able to get into this job through an internship.
Further information
You'll find more details about working in local government through the Local Government Association.