Naomi Gornall – Major Schemes, Project Manager
Major Projects Team, Transport Development Group
Please give a brief outline of the main duties of your job.
I oversee the development of programmes for the delivery of Major Highway Schemes, which have been identified through the Local Transport Plan (LTP) process. Major Schemes are those with construction costs of over £250,000.
My role includes overseeing budgets, liaising with all organisations involved in the project to ensure effective co-ordination between the teams and commissioning the various services involved. I also undertake the management of the schemes' consultation process, liaising with District Councils, Parish Councils and the public.
What skills and qualifications do you need to do your job?
It is important to be approachable – the ability to interact and converse easily with people at all levels is vital.
You need to have an understanding of highway-engineering design, highway construction methods and materials, highway law, health and safety legislation, and environmental issues. You should also have an Engineering Degree or equivalent in Civil Engineering or related discipline and be working towards Chartered Status as an engineer.
How long have you worked in this role?
I've been doing this role for two years.
Where did you work before you did this job?
I worked in the same team as an Assistant Engineer.
What's the best thing about your job?
No two days are the same. There's always something new to deal with, new people to speak to and new challenges to get through. With a project that lasts a number of years, the slow but obvious progression is very rewarding as well as knowing that the completed product will be there for generations to come.
Which aspects of your job do you find the most challenging?
I have to be very organised so I don't miss any deadlines and keep the project on track in terms of programme and budget. I also have to make sure that all the aspects of a project are coordinated successfully.
Do you have any career aspirations for the future?
I am working towards my Chartered Status as an Engineer with the Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE).
What would you say to someone to encourage them to work for Somerset County Council?
There are many different opportunities at Somerset County Council. Even if you're not totally sure what you want to do with your career, once you have a job with the organisation there are opportunities to get to know what other people do, possibly work in a number of different teams and there are also opportunities of secondment before settling on one career. Due to the range of services Somerset County Council provides, in turn, there are a huge number of different types of jobs to choose from.
