Environmental Protection Officer

Company Overview Our client is a proactive local authority based in the North West of England, committed to protecting public health, safeguarding the environment, and improving quality of life for its residents. Due to increased service demand, the council is seeking an experienced Environmental Protection Officer to support the Environmental Health function on an interim basis. Role Overview We are recruiting an Environmental Protection Officer for an initial 6-month contract, starting ASAP. The successful candidate will deliver a range of statutory environmental protection services, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and contributing to effective enforcement across the district. This is a full-time position (37 hours per week), offering a competitive rate of £40–£45 per hour. Hybrid working may be available subject to service requirements. Key Responsibilities * Investigate complaints relating to statutory nuisance, including noise, smoke, odour, dust, and artificial light * Carry out inspections and gather evidence in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act 1990 * Serve statutory notices and take enforcement action where necessary * Prepare case files, witness statements, and legal documentation for prosecutions or formal action * Respond to pollution incidents and environmental complaints * Monitor permitted processes and ensure compliance with pollution control legislation * Provide technical advice and guidance to residents, businesses, and stakeholders * Maintain accurate case records and ensure statutory deadlines are met * Liaise with internal departments, legal services, and external agencies as required Requirements (Qualifications / Skills & Experience) Essential * Significant experience working within Environmental Protection or Environmental Health in a local authority setting * Strong working knowledge of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and associated enforcement processes * Experience investigating statutory nuisance and undertaking evidence-based enforcement * Ability to manage a busy caseload and prioritise effectively * Experience preparing prosecution files and attending court where required * Excellent communication, negotiation, and report-writing skills * Ability to work independently with minimal supervision Desirable * Degree or professional qualification in Environmental Health or a related discipline * Membership of a relevant professional body such as the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) * Experience dealing with complex or high-profile environmental protection cases * Knowledge of permitting, contaminated land, or air quality functions Additional Information * Contract duration: 6 months (with potential for extension) * Location: North West England * Rate: £40–£45 per hour (DOE) * Working hours: 37 hours per week * Start date: ASAP * Hybrid/flexible working available subject to service needs