Frequently Asked Questions

Where would I work?
With premises all over the Highlands, the Council is the main employer in the region. 

What business areas does the Council cover?
The Council is responsible for a range of services that impact on people’s quality of life such as education, support to children and families, community care, housing, council tax and housing benefits, planning and development, roads and transport, environmental services, leisure facilities, refuse collection and waste disposal.

What are the Council's Key Aims?
The Highland Council is elected to represent the needs of the people of the Highlands and to improve their quality of life by effective delivery of a wide range of essential services. Our key aims include: Representing the Highlands; Working with Communities and Partners; Improving Quality of Life; Being Open, Fair and Accountable; Delivering Services Effectively; Valuing and Involving our Staff. More information

What career opportunities do you have?
There is a significant variety of career opportunities with the Council spanning many professional and trade areas such as: Accountant, Technician, Office Assistant, Environmental Health Officer, Planner, Sports Development Officer, Solicitor, Waste Recycling Officer...

Where do you advertise?
In local newspapers, the Council’s own website, and appropriate professional journals.

Can I submit a CV?
We do not accept speculative CV’s and we must receive the relevant completed application form for job applications in order to ensure that the application will be considered. CVs are only acceptable if you have a visual impairment.

What does the 'Ref:' Number in the job advert refer to?
This refers to the Post Reference Number. It will help our staff if you can quote this number when contacting us with any queries or other correspondence.

I have found a job I would like to apply for, how do I apply?
You can either download the application pack from the Council's website where you see the job advert or request a pack using the telephone contact details in the advert. There is a postal address specified on the form to which it should be returned (by the closing date specified) when completed or email it to recruitment@highland.gov.uk.   

How do I request a large print application form?
To request a copy of our large print application form, contact Personnel, Highland Council Headquarters, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, IV3 5NX Tel 01463 702060 email: recruitment@highland.gov.uk

How do I request an audio tape/Braille application form?
To request an audio tape/Braille copy of our application form, contact Personnel, Highland Council Headquarters, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, IV3 5NX Tel 01463 702060 email: recruitment@highland.gov.uk

How does the 'Closing Date' work?
The majority of jobs advertised are open for around 2 weeks. The Closing Date displayed on this site is the date that the advertisement will close and applications will no longer be received.

Can I submit a late application?
Please make certain that your application form is received by the closing date. We cannot guarantee that late applications will be considered.

Will you acknowledge receipt of my application form?
Receipt of application forms can be acknowledged by email if you request this, but can only be acknowledged by post if you enclose a stamped self addressed envelope with your completed application form.

How much holiday time would I be entitled to?
See Your Job Package at Highland Council

What benefits would I be entitled to?
See Your Job Package at Highland Council

Do you pay relocation expenses?
Yes. See Your Job Package at Highland Council

Do you have flexible working arrangements to suit my family circumstances?
Yes. Our generous package of benefits and provisions will support you with your family and caring responsibilities.  We give prospective parents generous maternity and paternity benefits – including those adopting.  We offer up to 13 weeks unpaid leave in line with our Parental Leave policy. And when you need the time off to care for your children or a dependent relative, you’ll find us very flexible, subject to the needs of the service.

How does the Council look after Staff Welfare?
We care about improving your health, welfare and training.  We’ll promote healthy living options for you through a range of events and initiatives.   We aim to guarantee a safe working environment for all.  Our procedures for training, guidance and assessments all combine ensure that our policies are working for your wellbeing. Our commitment to providing a healthy working environment means that we don’t allow smoking in Council premises or in vehicles.   

Why does the Council ask for equal opportunities monitoring information?
The Council is committed to providing equal opportunity for all its employees and job applicants, and has a policy which outlines that commitment. You are asked to assist with this by completing the equal opportunities monitoring form. This information will not be taken into account in the recruitment process.  It will be held on a computer database and used to produce reports to monitor that our employment policies and practices promote equal opportunities and eliminate discrimination.

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