Tobacco Enforcement Officer

Full Vacancy Description

Job Description:

A new opportunity has arisen in a south coast Trading Standards department to recruit a Fair-Trading Officer to complement our commitment to the illegal sale of tobacco. This role requires a candidate who can hit the ground running to be part of a distinct team investigating illegal tobacco in the County.

Contract: 9 months

Work hours: Part time – 24 hours per week (3 days) - Hybrid

Main duties and responsibilities

To properly handle evidence, records and data to ensure that confidentiality, continuity, evidence integrity, data quality, data protection and requests for information requirements are observed.

Support the inspection of retail premises, associated projects and alternative enforcement activities. To gather and handle evidence and make test purchases. Carry out PACE interviews, obtain statements and determine appropriate course of action using own initiative.

Undertake proportionate, targeted, accountable and transparent enforcement action, in accordance with best practice advice, guidance and enforcement policies.

Conduct investigations and other enforcement work with regard to breaches of legislation, in compliance with the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE), the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA), Criminal Proceedings and Investigations Act (CPIA) and Human Rights Act (HRA).

Prepare casefiles for Court or other statutory Hearings.

Appear and give evidence as a witness at Court or other statutory Hearings.

Be aware of the impact on businesses, consumers, or others who might be affected by any enforcement or regulatory action taken.

Work in accordance with Council policies, procedures, protocols, processes, risk assessments and relevant service plans.

Be a reliable and effective team member, supporting the service and its objectives.

Take a flexible approach to duties outside of normal office hours during changes in demand, as part of your post requirement.

Be available to respond and to attend as required in the East Sussex area at short notice.

Use databases and record keeping programmes to accurately enter and record information according to the Council’s data quality principles 

Essential

Full clean UK Driving Licence

Experience in criminal investigation and case file preparation.

Working knowledge of intelligence led investigation and associated legislation.

Self-motivated and ability to work with own initiative.