At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn and support fair trading while gaining hands-on experience in Trading Standards.
- Company: Walsall Council, dedicated to inclusivity and community empowerment.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous holidays, pension scheme, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy a dynamic work environment in Walsall.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in consumer protection while earning a Level 6 qualification.
- Qualifications: Passionate about consumer rights with strong communication skills and GCSEs/A-Levels.
Overview
Trading Standards (Tobacco and Vapes) Degree Apprentice position in a fully funded, 30-month fixed-term arrangement offering a Level 6 Trading Standards Professional Apprenticeship qualification. Aimed at individuals eager to learn, develop new skills, and support fair trading and consumer protection across the community.
Responsibilities
- Undertake the Level 6 Trading Standards Professional (Tobacco and Vapes Legislation) Apprenticeship.
- Work under the guidance of experienced Officers to gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a qualified Trading Standards Officer.
- Gather and process intelligence, respond to complaints and enquiries, and carry out inspections with a focus on tobacco and vaping products.
- Support local businesses by providing advice and guidance to ensure compliance with the law.
- Work on projects and investigations into non-compliance.
- Receive hands-on training across all aspects of Trading Standards in a supportive team environment.
Qualifications
- Passionate about consumer protection and the role Trading Standards plays.
- Calm, confident, and professional when dealing with the public and businesses.
- Highly motivated, with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Detail-oriented, well-organised, and committed to completing the apprenticeship.
- 5 GCSEs grade C/4 or above (or equivalent), including Maths and English Language.
- Three A-Levels (or equivalent).
- Willingness and commitment to study for and complete the Level 6 Trading Standards Professional Apprenticeship.
Contract and Benefits
We offer flexible working arrangements where possible (flexitime, full or part time, and job sharing where available), generous holiday entitlements, a first-class pension scheme, and opportunities for training and personal development.
About Us
Walsall Council is committed to creating and upholding an inclusive environment where every person feels empowered, valued and respected. We strongly encourage applications from individuals across diverse backgrounds and strive to treat all applicants fairly and without discrimination. We actively promote diversity and equality, ensuring that our services and opportunities are accessible to all members of our community. We recognise that achieving true inclusivity is an ongoing journey; together, we strive to create a welcoming workplace that celebrates differences and empowers everyone to thrive.
Living in Walsall: part of the Black Country, with a history of enterprise and industry, the borough offers a modern, progressive community. For more information about living in Walsall, see local resources.
Trading Standards Apprentice in Walsall employer: Walsall Council
Walsall Council is an excellent employer for those seeking a meaningful career in Trading Standards, offering a fully funded apprenticeship that combines hands-on training with professional development. With a commitment to inclusivity and flexible working arrangements, employees benefit from generous holiday entitlements and a supportive team environment that fosters growth and empowerment. Living in Walsall provides access to a vibrant community rich in history and opportunities, making it an ideal location for aspiring Trading Standards professionals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trading Standards Apprentice in Walsall
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye out for compliance and risk management conferences and workshops in your area. These events are a goldmine for networking, and they often have job boards or recruiters on-site looking for new talent. Plus, it’s a chance to learn what's trending in the field.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge Online
Start writing articles or blog posts about compliance topics that interest you. Share them on platforms like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and passion. This not only builds your presence in the field but can also catch the attention of companies like Walsall Council looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Trading Standards Apprentice in Walsall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, try to quantify your achievements. For example, if you've previously worked on a project that improved compliance metrics or reduced risk exposure, give us the numbers! This data-driven approach really stands out to hiring managers in compliance-risk roles.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Relevant Skills:Make sure your CV highlights skills that are particularly relevant to compliance, like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and report writing. Ensure these are easy to spot – consider using bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements for maximum impact!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at Walsall Council. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at Walsall Council
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with Walsall Council’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
