Job Title: Public Protection Officer – Food and Health & Safety 

Location: Romford 

Job Type: Temporary

Duration of booking: 4 months with possible extension

Start date: ASAP

Pay Rates:  £40 per hour PAYE inclusive of holiday pay

Hours / Working Days: 36 hours per week (Monday–Friday, with occasional evenings/weekends as required)

Hybrid working model – remote, office-based, and on-site inspections as required.

We’re looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Public Protection Officer to join our Food and Health & Safety team within the Public Protection Service team.

This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in protecting the health, safety, and wellbeing of residents, workers, and visitors across the borough. You’ll be responsible for carrying out inspections, investigations, and enforcement work to ensure local businesses comply with food hygiene, food standards, and health & safety legislation.

You’ll also contribute to wider service improvement projects, support local initiatives, and work closely with colleagues, businesses, and partner agencies to promote best practice and maintain high standards of public protection.

Key responsibilities 

• Carry out inspections, investigations, and sampling of food premises and workplaces.
• Take enforcement action where necessary, preparing legal notices and evidence for potential prosecutions.
• Respond to complaints and service requests efficiently and professionally.
• Provide advice and guidance to businesses and the public to support compliance.
• Represent the Council at meetings and forums, helping shape policy and service delivery.
• Maintain accurate case records and use ICT systems effectively to monitor performance.
• Contribute to projects and service improvements that enhance public protection outcomes.

You’ll have a solid background in Environmental Health, Food Safety, or Health & Safety enforcement, with a clear understanding of relevant legislation and codes of practice. You’ll be confident managing a varied caseload and comfortable making evidence-based decisions in a fast-paced environment.

Strong communication, analytical, and organisational skills are essential, along with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. You’ll also share our commitment to excellent customer service, equality, and continuous improvement.

Requirements 

• Degree or Diploma in Environmental Health or a related field (or equivalent qualification).
• Experience in food hygiene, health & safety inspections, or enforcement within a local authority or similar environment.
• Strong ICT skills, including use of MS Office and mobile working tools.
• Membership of the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) – desirable.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.