At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure compliance with licensing laws and mediate disputes in licensed premises.
- Company: Join a dynamic council team dedicated to community safety and licensing standards.
- Benefits: Flexible shifts, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and training in a vital public service role.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: HNC level education and knowledge of licensing laws required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
To provide information and guidance on the requirements and operation of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 and Licensing Board Policy. By means of inspection and other enforcement methods, will also ensure that licensed premises comply at all times with the requirements of the Act and Licensing Board policy.
Major Tasks/ Job Activities
- Ensure compliance with the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Licensing Board Policy by carrying out investigations, inspections, meetings and various initiatives.
- Provide reports to Licensing Board on Licence applications received and review hearings.
- Provide guidance on the requirements of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Licensing Board Policy.
- Mediate in disputes between Premises Licence Holders and other parties in respect to issues that may arise in licensed premises.
- Raise awareness and develop the role of Licensing Standards Officer and the service provided to the trade, members of the public and other interested parties.
- Liaise with and build relationships with internal and external partnership agencies.
- Liaise with and develop an effective working relationship with Premises Licence Holders, legal agents and residents.
- Provide information, direction and guidance to the Licensed trade and the general public on the requirements of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Licensing Board Policy.
- Attempt to resolve disputes informally by means of shuttle mediation; and facilitate formal meetings between parties to try and resolve disputed matters amicably.
- Investigate and gather evidence in respect of any possible breach of licence conditions, the licensing objectives, the Licensing Board Policy and the provisions of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005.
- Carry out a programme of inspections to all licensed premises during licensing hours to check for compliance with the requirements of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Licensing Board Policy, Smoking Health and Social Care (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Disability Discrimination Act 2005.
- Assess premises operating plans and the impact of the proposals on the surrounding community as it relates to the licensing objectives laid down in the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005.
- Carry out joint initiatives with other stakeholders to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Licensing Board.
- Develop and maintain positive professional relationships with a wide variety of stakeholders and interest groups such that they are well informed on the requirements of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Licensing Board Policy.
- Initiate projects and participate in joint initiatives with Police Scotland and other relevant partnership agencies.
- Promote good practice by participating in alcohol / education initiatives.
- Prepare various written reports including those for the Licensing Board; for all licence applications received within the statutory time frames and for all major variations to licences.
- Attend and provide verbal reports to the Licensing Board when required.
Responsibilities
No direct supervisory responsibility but as the role develops the post holder will be expected to assist in the training of any new LSO’s that are appointed and any other staff as necessary.
Contacts and Relationships
Develop and maintain effective relationships with a diverse range of people and organisations. Deal with a range of members of staff in licensed premises through to Directors of Companies who hold a premises licence and/or the legal agents of such companies. Promote the service given by the Council in a professional manner. Deal with complaints received from members of the public in relation to licensed premises and other persons in a competent and efficient manner and will seek to resolve the complaints to the satisfaction of both parties. On a regular basis carry out mediation which will entail a high level of support caring and counselling. This will require attention to detail appreciation of complex and varied problems and the ability to recognise and interpret evidence to assist the parties to consider alternatives and develop solutions.
Resources
- Proper use and safe keeping of vehicle assigned to them
- Proper use and safe keeping of higher cost items i.e. computers / laptops mobile phones and PPE
- Responsible for accurate handling and security of intellectual property of the Council.
Environment – Work Demands
Will be expected to manage their own workload taking into account appropriate deadlines. Circumstances change frequently due to the requirement to respond to complaints resulting in the cessation or interruption to tasks and results in their reprioritisation.
Environment – Physical
Will operate a four days on, four days off rota within the range of 10.00 to 04.00. Each shift will be 10 hrs 17 mins long with a half hour unpaid meal breaks. On occasions attendance at meetings may be required outwith normal shift patterns.
Environment – Working Conditions
The majority of the working day outwith the office environment carrying out inspections of licensed premises, dealing with Premises Licence Holders / Personal Licence Holders, investigating complaints, attending meetings and participating in joint initiatives with other stakeholders. Whilst investigating complaints the post holder is required to visit residential domestic premises and are met by clients who are often angry and distressed. Required to monitor activities in or around licensed premises which can result in officers being substantially exposed to the elements.
Environment – Work Context
Will be issued with a stab vest and will have to complete personal safety training with Police Scotland. Attend Licensed premises during licensing hours and will often have to deal with unpredictable staff and patrons (often under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs) who can be hostile towards them. Will on occasions be required to work on their own.
Knowledge and Skills
Educated to HNC level or equivalent.
Health and Safety
The Council must abide by relevant health & safety and employment law, as well as the common law duty of care. All members of staff are required to care for their personal health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions or inactions. You are therefore required to carry out your duties in a safe manner in accordance with instructions and in compliance with safety rules/procedures, regulations and codes of practice. You are required to advise your line manager if you become aware of any unsafe.
Person Specification
Qualifications, training & professional membership - Essential criteria
- The Licensing Standards Officer will be educated to HNC level or equivalent.
- The Licensing Standards Officer will hold or will complete the Licensing Standards Officer statutory qualification in terms of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 with 18 months of appointment.
- The Licensing Standards Officer will be the holder of a valid driving licence.
The successful candidate will demonstrate evidence of the following experience, knowledge, skills and understanding. Evidence will be sought for selection purposes.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
- Detailed knowledge of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 and its secondary legislation.
- Detailed knowledge of Licensing Board Policy.
- Good practical knowledge of the Smoking, Health and Social Care (Scotland) Act 2005, Gambling Act 2005, Private Security Industry Act 2001.
- High level of interpretive skills.
- Highly developed communications skills to ensure that parties understand the mediation proceedings being undertaken.
- Ability to interpret applications and plans provided as part of licence application process.
- Will have conflict resolution skills and a high level of mediation skills.
LEGISLATION
The post requires detailed knowledge and practical application of all legislation relevant to the post holder’s position and the ability to keep up-to-date with new and amended legislation. Knowledge in relevant areas of Trading Standards, Environmental Health and Licensing.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to negotiate where necessary. This should also include the ability to pass on knowledge and experience to other officers in order to further their own development and prepare reports for possible prosecution and for project summaries.
PROBLEM SOLVING
The post holder must have excellent interpretive and problem solving skills, in order to assess complex legal terms/judgements/arguments, and apply them to the situation in hand, arriving at solutions.
INVESTIGATORY SKILLS
The post holder must have excellent investigatory skills, the ability to investigate creatively, and the ability to identify the necessary evidence in whatever medium it may present itself. Must be able to undertake complex investigations.
ORGANISATIONAL/IT SKILLS
Well-developed organisational skills and ability to use a range of computer packages and databases to a competent standard including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Authority Public Protection (APP). The post holder must exhibit a good degree of IT knowledge and skills, to the extent that it is necessary for performance of the relevant functions.
LEGAL SYSTEMS
Ability to maintain a good working knowledge of legal systems and procedures, including rules of evidence, court procedure, the need to secure expert witness input, control of evidence etc. Must be able to give evidence in court.
Licensing Standards Officer - Waverley Court in Edinburgh employer: The City of Edinburgh Council
As a Licensing Standards Officer at Waverley Court, you will join a supportive and dynamic team dedicated to ensuring compliance with the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005. Our work culture promotes professional development through training opportunities and collaborative initiatives with various stakeholders, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. With a focus on employee well-being and a commitment to public service, we offer a rewarding environment where your contributions directly impact the safety and enjoyment of our local communities.
Contact Details:
The City of Edinburgh Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Licensing Standards Officer - Waverley Court in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the licensing field. Attend local events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current Licensing Standards Officers. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005. Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific scenarios or disputes. Show them you’re not just familiar with the legislation but also passionate about ensuring compliance and promoting good practice.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to keep your name fresh in their minds and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Licensing Standards Officer position. We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team. Plus, you’ll be part of a community that values your growth and development!
We think you need these skills to ace Licensing Standards Officer - Waverley Court in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Licensing Act Inside Out:Before you start your application, make sure you’ve got a solid understanding of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Licensing Board Policy. This will not only help you tailor your application but also show us that you're genuinely interested in the role.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our team as a Licensing Standards Officer.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves a lot of interaction with various stakeholders, it’s crucial to demonstrate your excellent verbal and written communication skills. Use clear and concise language in your application to reflect this.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people and shows us that you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at The City of Edinburgh Council
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 and its secondary legislation. Brush up on the key points and be ready to discuss how they apply in real-world scenarios. This will show that you're not just familiar with the law, but that you can also interpret and apply it effectively.
✨Demonstrate Mediation Skills
Since mediation is a big part of the role, prepare examples of how you've successfully resolved disputes in the past. Think about specific situations where you had to mediate between parties and what techniques you used to reach a resolution. This will highlight your conflict resolution skills and ability to handle difficult conversations.
✨Build Relationships
The job involves liaising with various stakeholders, so be ready to talk about how you've built and maintained professional relationships in previous roles. Share examples of how you’ve worked collaboratively with others, especially in challenging environments, to demonstrate your interpersonal skills.
✨Showcase Your Investigatory Skills
Prepare to discuss your investigatory skills and any relevant experiences. Think about times when you had to gather evidence or conduct inspections. Be specific about your approach and the outcomes, as this will illustrate your ability to handle the investigative aspects of the role effectively.
