Vivid Resourcing
Location: Surrey
Contract: Interim
About the role
Our client is a local authority in Surrey. They are looking for an Environmental Enforcement Officer to join their environmental services team on an interim basis, helping to protect the local environment and maintain standards of cleanliness and public safety across the borough.
The successful candidate will investigate reports of environmental offences, gather evidence and take proportionate enforcement action. Casework is expected to include fly-tipping, littering, waste duty of care breaches, abandoned vehicles and other environmental crime, alongside patrols and engagement with residents, businesses and landowners.
This is a position for an officer who is confident working independently and dealing with members of the public, including in difficult or confrontational situations. It offers varied, hands-on work in a local authority setting and the chance to see the results of enforcement activity in the local community.
Main responsibilities
- Investigate complaints and reports of environmental offences, including fly-tipping, littering, waste offences and abandoned vehicles
- Carry out patrols and site visits to identify and respond to environmental issues
- Gather and record evidence, including witness statements, photographs and interviews under caution where required
- Issue warning letters, fixed penalty notices, community protection notices and other enforcement notices in line with council policy
- Prepare case files for prosecution and give evidence in court where required
- Advise residents, businesses and landowners on their environmental responsibilities
- Carry out waste carrier and duty of care inspections
- Work with colleagues in waste, planning, licensing and community safety teams, and with external agencies such as the Environment Agency and the police
- Maintain accurate case records and ensure compliance with data protection and legal requirements
- Contribute to education and awareness campaigns to reduce environmental crime
Requirements
Essential
- Experience in an enforcement, regulatory or investigative role, ideally within environmental services
- Working knowledge of relevant legislation, including the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014
- Experience gathering evidence and preparing case files to a standard suitable for prosecution
- Ability to manage a caseload and work independently
- Strong communication and conflict management skills
- Full UK driving licence
Desirable
- Previous experience working within a local authority
- Experience of interviewing under caution (PACE)
- A relevant qualification in environmental health, enforcement or investigation
- Experience using case management and mobile reporting systems
- Experience delivering education and engagement campaigns
The offer
This is an interim role based in Surrey. Rate, contract duration, start date and working pattern are to be confirmed with candidates. Further detail on the team and the scope of the role will be shared with shortlisted applicants.
If you are an experienced enforcement professional looking for an interim role protecting the local environment within a Surrey local authority, this position offers varied casework and real community impact. Apply below.