At a Glance
- Tasks: Protect public health while studying for a fully funded Environmental Health Degree.
- Company: East Cambridgeshire District Council, committed to sustainability and community well-being.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, flexible working, and clear career progression pathways.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local communities and gain valuable hands-on experience.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm for public health, strong communication skills, and a desire to learn.
The predicted salary is between 18720 - 21600 £ per year.
Are you looking for a career that combines science, investigation, problem solving, and public service? Would you like to earn a salary while studying for a professional degree and building a rewarding career? East Cambridgeshire District Council is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated apprentice to join our Environmental Health team. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain a fully funded, BSc (Hons) Environmental Health Degree, through Middlesex University, whilst working in a professional regulatory work environment.
Environmental Health Practitioners play a vital role in protecting public health, improving living and working conditions, supporting local businesses, and helping communities thrive. Through a combination of education, advice, investigation and enforcement, we tackle issues ranging from nuisance and pollution to housing conditions, food safety and wider public health concerns.
As an apprentice, you will benefit from a structured, four-year programme that combines university study with workplace hands-on learning, giving you the skills, knowledge and experience required to become a qualified Environmental Health Practitioner.
The Role
This is a great “earn while you learn” opportunity, combining practical work experience with a fully funded, CIEH accredited BSc (Hons) Environmental Health Degree through Middlesex University. Your working week will be split between study, as required by the university and work roles across our Environmental Health team. This will enable you to experience and help deliver a wide range of services including; public health, inspections, investigations and consultations, environmental protection, housing standards, food safety, and health and safety at work.
Within our supportive and experienced team, you will develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to progress towards becoming a qualified and professionally registered Environmental Health Practitioner.
What will you be doing?
As an Apprentice Environmental Health Practitioner, no two days will be the same. While completing your Environmental Health Practitioner Degree studies you will work alongside experienced officers in the workplace learning, applying academic knowledge to real-world environmental health challenges.
As a member of the team you will assist in:
- responding to complaints and enquiries whilst working towards managing your own initial enquiry and investigation caseload;
- supporting officers on inspections and investigations;
- liaising with members of the public, colleagues, Councillors and external agencies;
- assisting with proactive compliance work and projects;
- assisting officers by taking evidence such as samples and photos;
- maintaining accurate records and using council systems to support investigations and decision making;
- supporting officers to evidence and enforce compliance with the various standards and regulations that protect public health and safety.
About You
We’re looking for someone with enthusiasm, curiosity, dedication and a genuine interest in protecting public health and making a positive difference within local communities.
You will:
- Be self-motivated to learn and develop new skills
- Have excellent communication skills and enjoy working with a wide range of people
- Be organised and able to manage competing priorities in both the workplace and course
- Have good IT and written skills
- Enjoy problem solving and investigating issues
- Be able to work both independently and as part of a team
- Demonstrate professionalism, integrity and a commitment to public service
- Be able to travel throughout our District and, where necessary, work outside normal office hours
- Be eligible for enrolment onto the Environmental Health Apprenticeship Degree at Middlesex University.
Benefits
In return, the Council offers a range of benefits including:
- flexible working
- childcare scheme (in approved cases)
- training and development
- occupational health programme
- holiday and sickness scheme entitlements
- enrolment in the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- career progression: clear pathways to progress
If you are looking to work for an organisation that prioritises environmental sustainability, the Council has made a clear commitment to operate in a responsible and sustainable manner and has recently been awarded the silver accreditation of the Investors in the Environment scheme.
For an informal discussion regarding the post please contact Nick Baker, Waste and Environmental Services Manager (07980 259958) or email nick.baker@eastcambs.gov.uk
Closing date for completed applications is: Friday 7 August 2026. The selection process will be held on: week commencing Monday 17 August 2026.
Please note that only candidates selected for interview will be contacted via email by the HR Department with the confirmation of an interview. If you have not been contacted by that date, please assume your application has not been successful on this occasion.
The council is an equal opportunities employer and operates a no smoking policy.
Apprentice Environmental Health Practitioner East Cambridgeshire District Council in Ely employer: Spotted in Ely
Spotted in Ely is an excellent employer that values its team members by offering a supportive work culture and opportunities for personal growth. Employees enjoy competitive benefits and the chance to work in a dynamic environment where their contributions directly impact customer satisfaction. With a focus on teamwork and flexibility, this role provides a rewarding experience for those looking to make a difference in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Environmental Health Practitioner East Cambridgeshire District Council in Ely
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Local Eco Events
Jump into local environmental clean-up drives or tech expos focused on green engineering. Not only will this look fab on your CV, but you'll also meet industry folks who might have leads on apprenticeship spots. Show up, volunteer, and let your passion shine!
✨Connect with Uni Career Services
If you're still in school, tap into your uni's career services. They often have partnerships with companies looking for apprentices. Plus, they might know about programmes that aren't widely advertised. Don’t be shy — get them involved in your search!
✨Engage in Online Communities
Join online forums and social media groups centred around environmental engineering. Platforms like LinkedIn and Reddit have specific channels where apprenticeships are shared, and you can interact with industry professionals. Get your name out there and ask about opportunities!
✨Check Out Industry-Specific Job Portals
Look for job portals that cater specifically to environmental engineering. These sites often have apprenticeship listings that traditional job boards might miss. Make it a habit to browse them regularly, and consider reaching out directly to companies you admire, like Spotted in Ely, if they have open positions!
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Environmental Health Practitioner East Cambridgeshire District Council in Ely
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Environment:When you're applying for an apprenticeship in environmental engineering tech, it's crucial to communicate your enthusiasm for sustainability and eco-friendly technologies. Use your cover letter to share any projects or initiatives you've been involved in that reflect your commitment to the environment. This can set you apart from other candidates!
Highlight Relevant Coursework and Projects:Make sure your CV includes any relevant coursework or projects related to environmental engineering. If you've tackled anything from renewable energy projects to sustainability assessments in school, let us know! Specific examples help us see your practical skills and the knowledge you can bring to the table.
Tailor Your Application to the Role:It's important to customise your CV for this apprenticeship. Highlight skills that are essential in environmental engineering, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and analytical thinking. Don’t forget to mention any technical skills you've gained, whether that's software related to environmental modelling or data analysis!
Keep It Concise and Clear:While we love a good story, your application needs to be straightforward. Stick to the key points about your skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role. Aim for clarity and brevity so we can quickly see why you’d be a fantastic fit for an apprenticeship in environmental engineering tech at Spotted in Ely.
How to prepare for a job interview at Spotted in Ely
✨Show Your Passion for the Environment
As an aspiring environmental engineering tech apprentice, we want to be sure you convey your enthusiasm for sustainability and environmental issues. Share any relevant projects, volunteering experiences, or even personal initiatives that demonstrate your commitment to the field—this can really set you apart!
✨Brush Up on Relevant Software Tools
In this field, familiarity with tools like AutoCAD, GIS, or environmental modelling software is a big plus. Be ready to discuss any experience you have with these tools or similar ones—showing you can hit the ground running will impress Spotted in Ely.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills
Environmental challenges often require creative problem-solving. Prep for a scenario-based question where you’ll need to come up with a solution to a specific environmental issue. Think about real-world examples where you’ve tackled problems—this could show your analytical thinking and adaptability.
✨Express Your Eagerness to Learn
Since you're applying for an apprenticeship, it’s crucial to focus on your willingness to learn and develop in the role. Be sure to convey your desire to gain hands-on experience and how this apprenticeship at Spotted in Ely fits into your future career goals in environmental engineering.
