At a Glance
- Tasks: Respond to waste issues, remove fly-tipping, and patrol hotspots to keep Sandwell clean.
- Company: Join Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council's proactive Environmental Enforcement team.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 28 days leave, training opportunities, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Be part of a friendly team focused on environmental standards and community safety.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while working outdoors and engaging with locals.
- Qualifications: Level 2 in Numeracy and Literacy, driving licence, and teamwork experience required.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, We are recruiting an Environmental Rapid Response Operative to join our Environmental Enforcement team.
This frontline role focuses on responding quickly to waste‑related issues, supporting enforcement activity, and ensuring Sandwell remains a clean and welcoming place for residents, businesses, and visitors.
About You
We are looking for a committed and proactive individual who can work independently and as part of a team to resolve environmental issues across the borough.
You will need
- Level 2 qualification in Numeracy and Literacy (or equivalent).
- A full, current driving licence with C1.
- Experience of correct waste disposal and recycling practices.
- Experience working in a team environment and engaging with members of the public.
- A willingness to work flexibly, including early mornings and occasional weekends.
- A good understanding of health and safety at work and safe working practices.
- The ability to maintain accurate records, work outdoors in all weather, and handle items requiring a reasonable level of physical fitness.
You will be dependable, professional, and able to interact confidently with residents, businesses, partners, and council officers.
You should also be able to work with minimal supervision and take responsibility for your own actions.
You will be expected to uphold Sandwell Council’s values: One Team, Customer Focussed, Inclusive, Ambitious, and Accountable.
Uniforms must be worn on duty.
As an Environmental Rapid Response Operative, you will
- Respond to waste‑related issues where residents or businesses have disposed of waste incorrectly.
- Remove fly‑tipping and waste accumulations as required.
- Patrol known hotspot areas to identify and prevent environmental issues.
- Gather and record evidence of incorrect waste disposal to support enforcement action.
- Provide written witness statements for enforcement processes and investigations.
- Respond to enquiries and complaints from residents, councillors, and MPs.
- Work closely with Environmental Enforcement Officers, the council’s waste partner, and other departments to resolve issues.
- Maintain accurate manual and electronic records.
- Support the delivery of Sandwell’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) values.
This is a highly visible, public‑facing role that plays a vital part in keeping Sandwell clean, safe, and well‑maintained.
The Team
You will be part of the wider Environmental Enforcement service, working alongside Enforcement Officers and other partners to manage waste‑related issues and contribute to borough-wide cleanliness and environmental standards.
The role involves partnership working with
- Other council services
- Our waste contractor
- Community groups and voluntary organisations
- Emergency services and wider stakeholders
This is a supportive and collaborative team environment with opportunities to gain further experience in environmental enforcement and community safety work.
What We Offer
- Flexible working arrangements
- 28 days annual leave, rising to 34 days after 5 years
- Additional concessionary days at Christmas
- Family friendly policies
- Training and development opportunities,
- All necessary uniform and equipment
- A stable, friendly, and inclusive working environment
- Interview date: Wednesday 2 September 2026
For more information about working for Sandwell Council, our recruitment process and our offer to you please visit https://www. sandwell. gov. uk/counciljobs https://www. sandwell. gov. uk/We Are Sandwell/council/story
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Environmental Rapid Response Operative in Oldbury employer: WMJobs
West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is an exceptional employer that champions a collaborative and inclusive work culture, offering employees the chance to make a tangible impact in the public sector. With a strong focus on professional development and growth opportunities, WMCA supports its staff in navigating the complexities of local governance while fostering a dynamic environment that values innovation and adaptability. Located in the heart of the West Midlands, employees benefit from a vibrant community and access to a range of resources aimed at enhancing their career journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Environmental Rapid Response Operative in Oldbury
✨Get Involved in Local Environmental Initiatives
Dive into your local environmental scenes, like community clean-up projects or eco-focused events. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but it's a surefire way to showcase your passion and skills in environmental engineering tech.
✨Join Industry-Specific Organisations
Check out organisations like the Institution of Environmental Engineers for networking opportunities and resources. They often host events and seminars that can help us connect with key players in the industry, including potential employers like WMJobs.
✨Show Off Your Projects and Passion
Create a portfolio that highlights any relevant projects, whether it's coursework, internships, or personal initiatives. Share this online, perhaps even on platforms like GitHub or your own website, to grab the attention of hiring managers looking for talent like us.
✨Utilise Environmental Job Boards
Take advantage of niche job boards dedicated to environmental careers. Sites like Green Jobs, Environmental Career and EcoJobs often feature openings from companies like WMJobs and can help us land that full-time gig.
We think you need these skills to ace Environmental Rapid Response Operative in Oldbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to highlight your technical skills like CAD software proficiency, data analysis, or modelling techniques. These are essential for the job and should stand out in your CV and cover letter, showing how you can contribute to projects at WMJobs.
Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability:In this field, showcasing your passion for sustainability and environmental protection can set you apart. Include any relevant projects, volunteer experience, or courses that underline your commitment to these causes. WMJobs will appreciate candidates who genuinely care about making a difference.
Tailor Your Application to the Role:Don't just send a generic CV and cover letter. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Environmental Rapid Response Operative at WMJobs. Highlight experiences that align directly with the job description and give concrete examples of your work to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a full-time position.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have certifications related to environmental engineering or technology, like LEED Accreditation or any relevant software certifications, make sure to mention them. These qualifications can boost your application and show that you’re serious about your professional development in this competitive field.
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨Brush Up on Environmental Regulations
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest environmental regulations and standards. In an environmental engineering tech role at WMJobs, you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with relevant tools and software, such as AutoCAD or GIS. You might be given a practical problem to solve during the interview, so it’s a great idea to brush up on these skills and perhaps even bring a portfolio of your projects to showcase your technical prowess.
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability
In a full-time role, employers are looking for commitment and enthusiasm. Share your experiences, studies, or projects that reflect your passion for environmental sustainability. This will show WMJobs that you're not just qualified but genuinely invested in the field.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Be ready for behavioural questions that assess how you handle teamwork, conflict, and project management. Think of examples from your studies or practical experiences where you tackled challenges effectively, showcasing both your technical and interpersonal skills.
