At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in investigations and inspections to enforce trading standards, focusing on tobacco and vaping.
- Company: Join the City of London Trading Standards Team, a high-performing regulatory service.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary while gaining a nationally recognised Level 6 qualification.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive team culture and modern offices at Guildhall.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health and consumer protection in a vital role.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm for learning, strong communication skills, and interest in tackling illicit trade.
The predicted salary is between 38080 - 42150 £ per year.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join the City of London Trading Standards Team and train to become a fully qualified Trading Standards Officer through a nationally recognised Level 6 Trading Standards Professional Apprenticeship. Trading Standards is a small but high‑performing team that plays a vital role in supporting legitimate businesses, protecting consumers, and safeguarding the reputation of the Square Mile. You will contribute to a wide range of interesting, complex and impactful regulatory work from day one. A key focus of this role is supporting the City Corporation’s work on tobacco and vaping enforcement. This programme is supported through targeted central government funding provided to local authorities to address the national priority of tackling illicit tobacco, reducing youth access to vaping products, and protecting public health. As such, it forms a critical part of the service’s regulatory programme. You will develop specialist knowledge and practical experience in addressing the sale and supply of illicit tobacco and unsafe vaping products, working on intelligence‑led operations, inspections and investigations with partner agencies.
About the Role
The successful candidate will work alongside experienced officers, gradually developing the skills required to operate as an independent Trading Standards Officer.
- Assist with and undertake investigations, inspections and enforcement activity across the full range of Trading Standards functions.
- Contribute to intelligence‑led work targeting illegal and non‑compliant businesses, with a particular focus on tobacco and vaping products.
- Support test‑purchasing, sampling and evidence gathering, including involvement in legal proceedings where appropriate.
- Provide advice and guidance to businesses and consumers to support compliance with legislation.
- Work collaboratively with partners, including the City of London Police and other enforcement agencies.
- Play a key role in protecting consumers, including identifying and supporting vulnerable victims.
Training and Development
You will undertake a structured programme leading to the Level 6 Trading Standards qualification, supported by the City of London Corporation. This includes:
- A formal apprenticeship programme of approximately two and a half years’ duration.
- Dedicated study time (around 20% of working hours).
- Completion of coursework, portfolio evidence and end‑point assessment.
- Development of specialist knowledge, including into tobacco and vaping enforcement.
This is an excellent opportunity to build a long‑term career in a highly respected regulatory profession.
About You
- Is enthusiastic, motivated and committed to learning and professional development.
- Is confident, professional and able to deal with a varied and at times challenging caseload.
- Has strong communication skills and the ability to engage effectively with businesses, consumers and partners.
- Demonstrates a proactive approach to problem solving and investigation work.
- Has an interest in tackling illicit trade and protecting public health, particularly in relation to tobacco and vaping products.
What We Offer
- Work in a high‑profile regulatory service at the heart of London.
- Gain exposure to complex and nationally significant enforcement work.
- Receive full support to achieve your professional qualification.
- Benefit from modern offices at Guildhall and a collaborative, supportive team culture.
Additional Information
Trading Standards in the City of London has a long and proud history of regulating trade and protecting the integrity of the Square Mile. Today, the team continues to play a key role in tackling emerging risks, including the growth of illicit markets such as illegal tobacco and vaping products. For an informal discussion, please contact Steve Playle, Trading Standards Manager. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and as part of the selection process the successful applicant will be required to obtain a Standard Disclosure & Barring Service check. The City of London Corporation is committed to Equal Opportunities and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Trading Standards Officer in London
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We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Trading Standards Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Soft Skills:In the public sector, soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are key. Make sure your CV highlights experiences that demonstrate these skills, perhaps through school projects or volunteering. We love seeing how you interact with your community!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Fit:Your cover letter is your chance to express your enthusiasm for the role. Specifically mention why working at City of London in the government-public sector excites you and how this apprenticeship will help you grow. We want to see your passion for making a difference!
Research, Research, Research!:Before applying, dive into City of London’s values and recent projects. Showing that you understand what we stand for and how you can contribute can really make your application pop. It lets us know you’re genuinely interested in what we do!
Highlight Any Relevant Experience:Even if it’s just part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer work, include any experience that relates to the public sector. If you've worked on community initiatives or school councils, be sure to mention those. We want to see your commitment to public service!
How to prepare for a job interview at City of London
✨Know Your Local Issues
In the public sector, it's crucial to be in tune with the issues affecting your community. Make sure you can discuss local challenges and how you would approach solving them. This shows your commitment and awareness of the sector!
✨Highlight Your Passion for Service
For an apprenticeship in the government sector, it’s all about your motivation. Be ready to talk about why you want to serve your community and how you can bring enthusiasm and a fresh perspective to the role with City of London.
✨Brush Up on Relevant Policies
Expect questions about specific policies or frameworks relevant to your desired position. Familiarise yourself with recent legislation or initiatives related to City of London and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to these efforts in the role of Apprentice Trading Standards Officer.
✨Show Your Willingness to Learn
As this is an apprenticeship, demonstrating your eagerness to learn is essential. Be prepared to discuss how you've tackled challenges in the past and how you plan to develop your skills further while working with City of London.
