Trading Standards Apprentice

Gateshead Council; Gateshead; Hybrid; GBP 24,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Pension scheme

28–32 days annual leave

Flexi-time

Hybrid working

Learning & development

Health & wellbeing support

Cycle to work

Salary sacrifice car scheme

Discounts

Job summary

Gateshead Council is offering an opportunity to train as a Trading Standards Officer through a fully funded Level 6 apprenticeship programme.

You will support investigations into illegal trading, carry out inspections of businesses and premises, and assist with enforcement activities such as evidence gathering and interviews. The role provides broad exposure to consumer protection law, policy, and procedure, with flexible hybrid working.

Qualifications

• Educated to Level 2 or equivalent (including Maths and English).
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing demands.
• Develop a methodical and analytical approach to problem solving.

Responsibilities

• Support investigations into illegal trading practices, including illicit tobacco, unsafe goods and underage sales.
• Assist with enforcement activity such as evidence gathering, test purchasing, interviews under PACE and preparing case files.
• Work alongside experienced officers conducting inspections of businesses, premises, goods and equipment.
• Record, manage and share intelligence and case information using national and local systems.
• Provide advice and guidance to businesses and consumers to improve compliance and awareness.

Skills

Organisational skills

Analytical thinking

Excellent communication

Independent work

Adaptability

Driving licence

Education

Level 2 qualification incl. Maths & English

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

• Train to become a qualified Trading Standards Officer through a fully funded Level 6 apprenticeship programme and further qualifications.
• Support investigations into illegal trading practices, including illicit tobacco, unsafe goods and underage sales.
• Work alongside experienced officers conducting inspections of businesses, premises, goods and equipment.
• Assist with enforcement activity such as evidence gathering, test purchasing, interviews under PACE and preparing case files.
• Develop knowledge of consumer protection legislation, criminal law and court procedures.
• Provide advice and guidance to businesses and consumers to improve compliance and awareness.
• Record, manage and share intelligence and case information using national and local systems.
• Build strong working relationships with internal teams, external partners and the wider community.
  Educated to Level 2 or equivalent (including Maths and English), with good IT literacy (e.g. Microsoft Office).
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to plan, prioritise and manage competing demands effectively.
• A methodical and analytical approach to problem solving, with accurate record-keeping and data handling skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to adapt your style to different audiences.
• The ability to work independently, use initiative and deliver results under pressure.
• Flexibility to work outside normal hours when required and a full UK driving licence.
• A strong commitment to learning, development and successfully completing the Level 6 apprenticeship programme.
  Do you want to help make Gateshead a place where everyone thrives? If that sounds like you, keep reading - we might be the perfect match.

We're delighted that you're interested in working with us. You'd be joining us at a very exciting time. We pride ourselves on our ambitious and forward-thinking approach to taking care of Gateshead and its people, and we passionately believe that our employees reflect that spirit in truly enabling Gateshead to thrive. At Gateshead Council you'd be a highly valued member of a team that recognises and respects the skills that you bring to your role, encourages creativity and passionately advocates a great work / life balance. Our actions speak louder than words, and with flexi-time and hybrid working available across many of our roles, as well as a full suite of outstanding employee benefits, we're confident that it isn't just the salary that attracts our staff. Start your career where it matters - keeping communities safe

Our Trading Standards team sits within Housing, Environment and Operations, working at the heart of protecting residents and supporting fair, thriving businesses. The team works collaboratively with partners such as the Police, Fire Service, HMRC, Border Force and other local authorities to tackle illegal practices, including counterfeit goods, unsafe products, and underage sales. With a strong focus on prevention, education and enforcement, the team plays a vital role in creating a safe, fair trading environment and a level playing field for legitimate businesses

• Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
• Outstanding Pension Scheme: We don't just offer a great salary - we invest in your future too. Find out what benefits a Local Government Pension provides: https://twpf.info
• Generous Annual Leave: Enjoy 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years (2 of which can be fixed by the Council), plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
• Flexible Working Hours: Benefit from up to 26 flexi days per year (subject to business needs), giving you more control over your time.
• Hybrid & Flexible Working: We support a healthy work-life balance with flexible and hybrid working options.
• Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development, and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
• Health & Wellbeing Support: From discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay active with our tax‑efficient cycle to work programme.
• Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme: Get behind the wheel of a brand‑new electric or hybrid vehicle through our salary sacrifice car scheme in partnership with NHS Fleet Solutions - a cost‑effective, environmentally friendly way to drive (after 12 months service).
• Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Through our VIVUP employee benefits platform, enjoy discounts on shopping, travel, and services - plus salary sacrifice options on white goods, electronics, and more, helping them spread the cost of essential purchases (after 6 months service).