Senior Health Protection Officer (Food and Safety)

West Northamptonshire Council; Northampton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Northampton is seeking a Senior Health Protection Officer or Environmental Health Officer to protect public health and ensure compliance with environmental health legislation. You will lead complex investigations, provide expert advice, and mentor colleagues while contributing to business development. The ideal candidate will be experienced in environmental health, possess strong communication and negotiation skills, and hold relevant qualifications. This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact in the community.

Qualifications

• Experienced environmental health professional with a strong technical background.
• Ability to interpret and apply environmental health legislation effectively.
• Proactive and adaptable approach to service delivery.

Responsibilities

• Act as the lead technical authority providing specialist advice.
• Prepare prosecution files and give evidence in court.
• Manage complex investigations and inspections.

Skills

Environmental legislation interpretation

Food safety expertise

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Decision-making

Education

Higher Diploma in Food Control

NEBOSH National Diploma or equivalent

Environmental Health Degree

Job description

As a Senior Health Protection Officer or Environmental Health Officer at West Northamptonshire Council, you will play a key role in protecting public health and ensuring compliance with environmental health legislation. This is a position where your expertise will make a tangible difference to the safety and wellbeing of our communities. You will act as the lead technical authority, providing specialist advice and guidance across a range of disciplines including food safety, occupational health and safety, and public health. In this role, you will take ownership of complex investigations and inspections, ensuring that statutory obligations are met and that high standards of compliance are maintained. You will provide expert advice to businesses, the public, and internal teams on matters such as planning, licensing, and public safety.

Your work will involve preparing prosecution files, giving evidence in court, and using enforcement tools to secure compliance where necessary. Alongside this, you will contribute to business development within Regulatory Services, support income generation opportunities, and mentor colleagues while continuing your own professional development.

You will be an experienced environmental health professional with a strong technical background and the ability to interpret and apply legislation effectively. Your communication and negotiation skills will enable you to influence and educate stakeholders, while your decision-making ability will allow you to manage complex casework independently and confidently. You will hold a Higher Diploma in Food Control and a NEBOSH National Diploma or equivalent, and/or an Environmental Health Degree and be registered with the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health. A proactive and adaptable approach, combined with a commitment to delivering high standards of service, will ensure your success in this role. If you are passionate about making a difference and thrive in a challenging, innovative environment, we would love to hear from you.