Upper Licensing Officer

Luton Council; England; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in the UK seeks a professional with substantial experience in licensing and regulation to oversee compliance and enforcement duties. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of licensing law, including relevant legislation. Key responsibilities include engaging with stakeholders, managing a diverse workload, and producing accurate documentation. This role emphasizes professionalism and inclusivity, with applicants required to have relevant qualifications and a proactive attitude towards problem-solving.

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience in a licensing or regulatory team.
• Solid understanding of licensing law, including the Licensing Act 2003.
• Familiarity with enforcement procedures and legal frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Work independently and identify when to escalate issues.
• Engage with public and commercial organisations effectively.
• Represent the Council with professionalism and diplomacy.

Skills

Investigate, interview, and negotiate effectively

Knowledge of licensing enforcement procedures

Understanding of court processes and evidence handling

Experience in producing clear documents and reports

Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications

Education

Advanced Professional Certificate in Investigative Practice or equivalent experience

Tools

Licensing databases

Job description

About the job

Salary: £36,363 - £39,152 a year plus £963 essential car user allowance
Hours per week: 37
Contract type: Permanent

You are a motivated, knowledgeable, and experienced professional with a strong background in licensing, regulation, and enforcement within a local authority or similar public service environment. You bring demonstrable experience of working in a licensing or regulatory team, including engaging with both the public and commercial organisations. You have previously worked in a legislative or compliance‑focused setting and are confident presenting cases at formal legal hearings, such as Licensing Sub‑Committees or court proceedings. Your understanding of licensing law is solid and up‑to‑date, including relevant legislation such as the Licensing Act 2003, Gambling Act 2005, and laws relating to Hackney Carriage and Private Hire licensing. You’re also familiar with associated enforcement procedures and the legal framework that governs investigations — including CPIA 1996, RIPA 2000, and PACE Code E‑F.

• The ability to investigate, interview, and negotiate effectively
• A sound knowledge of licensing enforcement procedures
• An understanding of court processes and evidence handling
• Experience in producing clear, accurate, and well‑structured documents, reports, and correspondence
• Confidence in maintaining accurate manual and digital records

You are skilled in using Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and licensing databases. You’re capable of managing a varied and sometimes conflicting workload, working independently while recognising when to escalate issues or seek support. You approach work with attention to detail, a strong sense of ethics, and a proactive attitude to problem‑solving and decision‑making.

Your communication skills are excellent — assertive when required, but always respectful, tactful, and professional. Whether speaking to individuals in interviews, engaging with businesses, or liaising with partners such as the Police, Trading Standards, or Border Agency, you represent the Council with professionalism and diplomacy.

You also understand the impact of discrimination and are committed to delivering inclusive and equitable services to all communities.

Ideally, you have completed training relevant to licensing inspections and hold (or are working towards) an Advanced Professional Certificate in Investigative Practice or can demonstrate equivalent experience. You’re committed to continuous professional development and staying informed of legislative changes and best practices.

Please note this role does not attract sponsorship.

About us

Our ambitious Luton 2040 Vision – that no‑one in Luton will have to live in poverty – is at the heart of everything we do. We recognise that our people are remarkable, talented, committed and passionate about serving our residents.

The people of Luton depend heavily on this council – and that means our workforce! Are you ready to realise the remarkable and help us deliver our vision?

We welcome applications from all sections of the community and are committed to developing a workforce that reflects the diversity of our borough.