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- Tasks: Conduct investigations into trading standards breaches and gather evidence.
- Company: Join West Berkshire Council's Public Protection Service, dedicated to consumer protection.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible and hybrid working, generous leave, and a Local Government pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a positive community impact while advancing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in trading standards or enforcement, strong investigative skills, and excellent communication.
- Other info: This role offers training opportunities and promotes equal employment opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36124 - 42708 £ per year.
Are you an experienced investigator with a passion for protecting consumers and ensuring fair trading practices? West Berkshire Council's Public Protection Service is seeking a dedicated Investigation Officer to join our Trading Standards team, reporting to the Principal Trading Standards Officer.
As an Investigation Officer, you will play a crucial role in conducting investigations into breaches of trading standards legislation, gathering evidence, and taking appropriate enforcement action. You will be responsible for:
- Conducting investigations into complaints and referrals
- Gathering and analysing evidence, including interviews and statements
- Carrying out inspections and visits to businesses
- Advising traders on compliance with legislation
- Preparing investigation files for legal proceedings
The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and attributes:
- Experience working in a trading standards or enforcement environment
- Knowledge of trading standards legislation and enforcement practices
- Strong investigative skills, including evidence gathering and analysis
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and manage a caseload
West Berkshire Council offer excellent employment benefits such as:
- Flexible working wherever possible between the hours of 07.00-21.00
- Hybrid working wherever possible working 40% in the office
- Access to a wide range of training and development opportunities
- Generous Local Government pension scheme
- Family friendly policies
- A range of local discounts
- Wellbeing Programme including Employee Assistance Programme and employee benefits
You will also be entitled to a generous annual leave entitlement starting at 29 days per annum (plus public holidays), rising by an additional 5 days after 5 years’ service.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Martin Woodley on 07748 760182 or email Martin.Woodley1@westberks.gov.uk. Join us at West Berkshire Council and make a positive impact in our community while advancing your career.
Explore everything that a career with West Berkshire Council has to offer here: Working with Us Equal Opportunities. The Council supports Equal Opportunity of employment, and positively encourages applications from people who fall within any of the nine protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.
This role has been identified as public facing in accordance with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016; the requirement to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence in English applies. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.
Investigator (Public Protection Partnership team)- 03521 employer: West Berkshire Council
Contact Detail:
West Berkshire Council Recruiting Team
Martin.Woodley1@westberks.gov.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Investigator (Public Protection Partnership team)- 03521
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trading standards legislation and enforcement practices. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and the importance of consumer protection.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the public protection and trading standards field. Attend relevant workshops or seminars, and connect with current employees at West Berkshire Council on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights into the team and its culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview questions by practising your responses to scenarios involving evidence gathering and analysis. Think of specific examples from your past experience that showcase your investigative skills and ability to manage a caseload effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out to Martin Woodley for an informal chat about the role. This can give you valuable information about what they are looking for in a candidate and help you tailor your approach when applying through our website.
We think you need these skills to ace Investigator (Public Protection Partnership team)- 03521
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Investigator position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in trading standards or enforcement.
Craft a Strong CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your investigative skills, experience in compliance, and any relevant qualifications. Use bullet points for clarity and focus on achievements that demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your passion for consumer protection and fair trading practices. Highlight specific examples from your past work that showcase your investigative skills and ability to manage a caseload effectively.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for an Investigator role.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Berkshire Council
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with trading standards legislation and enforcement practices. Being able to discuss specific laws and how they apply to real-world scenarios will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Investigative Skills
Prepare examples of past investigations you've conducted, focusing on your evidence-gathering techniques and analytical skills. Highlighting your ability to manage a caseload effectively will show that you can handle the responsibilities of the position.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing complex topics related to compliance and enforcement. This will help you stand out as a strong candidate.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, challenges faced by the Public Protection Partnership, and opportunities for professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
