Trading Standards Apprentice

We’re looking to recruit the next generation of Trading Standards Officers to join our team.

Have you ever wondered what a Trading Standards Officer does? If yes - then read on!

As a Trading Standards Officer you would be involved in a wide range of activities and projects, all aimed at ensuring a fair, safe, and legal trading environment across Worcestershire. This might mean:

Taking samples/test purchases of foods, consumer goods such as toys, cosmetics and electrical items, or animal feed and pet food, to have them checked against legal standards Interrupting doorstep rogue traders Visiting farms or markets to inspect animal welfare conditions On site and on-line inspections of manufacturers and suppliers of goods Advising businesses to help them trade fairly Working with partners to protect consumers and businesses from frauds and scams Investigating rogue traders, preparing criminal cases, and giving evidence in court.

Your role will be varied and fulfilling. As a trainee Trading Standards Officer, you’ll be working towards recognised professional qualifications. You will be supported through a structured training programme with a talented and experienced team around you. With a defined career path, you will qualify as a Trading Standards Officer capable of working across the full spectrum of disciplines, covering animal health and welfare, environmental protection, fair trading, feed, food, product safety, safety of sports grounds, and weights and measures. It’s a highly rewarding job in public service, where you can make a real difference.

With the hybrid and flexible working model offered here at Worcestershire County Council you will benefit from the best of both worlds:

Access to modern and well-resourced office and collaborative spaces, and First class provision of IT, software, and other equipment to enable effective homeworking, along with our commitment to provide structured, face to face mentoring, shadowing, and learning opportunities.

To be considered, you’ll need a good standard of general education, and the aptitude and commitment to study towards a professional qualification (we think having a degree will stand you in good stead here, but it’s not essential and we’re open in terms of where you may have gained your experience).

You’ll need the ability and desire to learn, and the capacity to understand and interpret complex legislation. You’ll also need first class communication and customer service skills, high attention to detail, and great organisational skills.  We also think you’ll have perseverance, patience, the awareness to quickly read situations, and the ability to remain calm in sometimes difficult circumstances.

Training Outcome:
Upon completion of their apprenticeship, the candidate may have the opportunity to progress onto a permanent position with the organisation.

Employer Description:
Worcestershire County Council delivers an array of services which support our residents and businesses. These include providing social care of some of the most vulnerable in society, helping the next generation get the best start in life through education, investing in our transport network, disposing of household waste sustainably, provision of Library service + country parks and supporting health + wellbeing within our communities.

Working Hours :
Monday to Friday. Flexi-time working between 8.00am - 5:30pm, totaling 35 hours per week. Evening and weekend work is expected.

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Customer care skills,Problem solving skills,Administrative skills