Food Safety & Hygiene Officer

Job Title: Environmental Control Officer - Food Hygiene and Safety Focus About the Role: We are seeking a dedicated Environmental Control Officer with a strong focus on food hygiene and food safety to join our Public Protection team. This role is ideal for someone passionate about safeguarding public health through food safety and who thrives in a varied, community-oriented role. You'll conduct food hygiene inspections, respond to food-related complaints, and ensure that local businesses adhere to high food safety standards. Key Responsibilities: Food Hygiene Inspections: Carry out inspections at various food establishments, assessing compliance with hygiene regulations and advising on best practices to ensure public safety. Complaint Investigation: Respond to food-related complaints and enquiries from the public, using investigative methods to address concerns and enforce standards where necessary. Sampling & Analysis: Conduct food sampling in accordance with established schemes, collect and document samples, and maintain databases to monitor food safety trends. Regulatory Compliance & Licensing: Perform inspections and associated actions related to food business licensing, authorisations, and permits to help businesses meet statutory requirements. Community Education: Engage with local food businesses and the public through workshops and presentations, promoting safe food handling practices and regulatory compliance. Collaboration & Support: Work closely with other public protection officers to develop and uphold food safety protocols, contribute to team discussions, and provide technical guidance on complex cases. Areas of Focus: This role specifically addresses food hygiene, safety, and compliance within the local community. Responsibilities will span across food contamination prevention, pest control in food premises, handling food complaints, and supporting public health initiatives that impact the food sector. Qualifications & Experience: Essential: Previous experience in food hygiene, safety, or environmental health, ideally within a regulatory or public health setting. A relevant qualification (e.g., food safety, environmental health, or food science) at Level 5 or above. Desirable: Experience in conducting food hygiene inspections, handling food complaints, or working with statutory food safety standards. Technical Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to draft concise inspection reports. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and database management for accurate record-keeping and compliance monitoring. Personal Qualities: We are looking for a well-organised, detail-oriented individual with a genuine commitment to public health and food safety. You should be adaptable, able to work under pressure, and confident in decision-making, particularly when dealing with food-related compliance issues. Additional Requirements: Full Driving Licence: Required for site visits to food establishments and premises. Physical Capability: Ability to carry out inspections, including on-site assessments of food handling facilities. Flexibility: Willingness to work occasionally outside regular hours to support food safety investigations or urgent inspections