Trading Standard Officer Apprentice

Sunderland City Council; Sunderland; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Sunderland City Council seeks an enthusiastic individual for a Regulatory Compliance Officer apprenticeship focusing on illegal tobacco and vape enforcement. This 45-month fixed-term contract offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and work towards a recognized qualification, contributing positively to the community's well-being.

Benefits

Structured training programme

Supportive workplace culture

Hands-on experience

Opportunities for career growth

Qualifications

• Must hold a Level 4 qualification or above.
• Full driving license is desirable but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Carry out inspections of retailers selling illegal tobacco and vape products.
• Monitor compliance with age-restricted sales laws.
• Assist in test purchasing exercises and intelligence gathering.

Skills

Attention to detail

Effective communication

Organisational skills

Curiosity

Professionalism

Education

Level 4 qualification or above

Job description

Kickstart a Career in Trading Standards!

Sunderland City Council Trading Standards team are looking to recruit an enthusiastic and motivated individual as a Regulatory Compliance Officer (Trading Standards Apprenticeship) on a 45-month fixed term contract.

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Do you have an interest in law, public health, and protecting people from harmful products? Sunderland City Council's Trading Standards team is offering a unique opportunity to train as an Apprentice Regulatory Compliance Officer, with a specific focus on illegal tobacco and vape enforcement.

This apprenticeship is ideal for someone who wants to develop a rewarding career in regulation, compliance, and public service — all while earning a qualification and gaining hands-on experience.
As an apprentice, you’ll be working towards a recognised professional qualification. You will be supported through a structured training programme, and if you successfully complete the apprenticeship you will qualify as a Trading Standards Officer. It’s a highly rewarding job in public service, where you can make a real difference.

What You'll Be Doing:
As part of the Trading Standards team, you'll support officers in
• Carrying out inspections of retailers selling illegal tobacco and vape products.
• Monitoring compliance with age-restricted sales laws.
• Assisting in test purchasing exercises and intelligence gathering.
• Investigating complaints and potential breaches of legislation.
• Educating businesses and the public about their responsibilities under the law.
• Keeping accurate records and assisting in evidence preparation.

What We’re Looking For:
We are looking for someone who is
• Curious and observant – with an eye for detail.
• Confident and professional when dealing with people.
• Committed to fairness, safety and the law.
• Organised and reliable, with good communication skills.
• Motivated to learn – both in the workplace and through formal training.
• Hold a Level 4 (or above) qualification
• Full driving licence desirable but not essential.

You must be willing to undertake and complete the Level 6 Trading Standards Professional Apprenticeship (Tobacco & Vapes legislation), which may include attending off-site or online training days:
https://www.csa-uk.com/mpage/l6-trading-standards-tobaccovapes

Apply Now
Start a meaningful career that protects the public and promotes a fair and safer Sunderland.
Application Deadline: Midday, Friday 27th June 2025
For an informal discussion, contact: Darren Coulton, Principal TSO (Tel: [phone])

Sunderland City Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our residents.

We are a forward-thinking and inclusive employer committed to making a real difference in people’s lives. By joining our team, you’ll be part of a supportive workplace that values innovation, integrity, and continuous development. We offer a culture of collaboration, agile working arrangements, and a range of staff wellbeing initiatives. Whether you’re starting out in your career or looking to grow within a professional organisation, Sunderland City Council is a place where your work truly matters — helping to shape a dynamic, healthier, and more vibrant city for all.

Applications should be made on-line at northeastjobs.org.uk/sunderlandcitycouncil. For further assistance contact Customer Enabling Services by email:[e-mail]

Please note that CVs are not acceptable.

Please note that all communication regarding your application for this post will be sent to the email address that you have registered online with North East Jobs, including your invitation to any online assessment you are required to undertake and your invite to interview if you are short-listed. Please check your email inbox after the closing date for notifications as you may not be notified by any other means. Please remember to check your junk mail items.