Trading Standards Officer

We are seeking a highly motivated Trading Standards Officer within our Trading Standards service to lead on tobacco and vape control activity, coordinating enforcement operations and tackling illicit trade within the borough. From bustling retail parks to one of the world's busiest container ports, Thurrock offers a varied, challenging and rewarding Trading Standards environment.

Whether your expertise lies in generic Trading Standards work, product safety, or complex investigations, this is an opportunity to make a real difference within a progressive and ambitious service.

This role will focus on tackling the sale of illicit tobacco and illicit vapes by coordinating intelligence-led and multi-agency operations with partner organisations. It presents a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference to the Thurrock community through both criminal and civil enforcement activity.

What We Are Looking For

The successful candidate will be an investigator who is tenacious, organised and motivated to deliver high-profile outcomes. Experience of enforcement activity relating to illicit trade, closure notices, community engagement, intelligence development and partnership working will be highly advantageous.

Applicants should ideally hold the Trading Standards Practitioner Diploma (or equivalent), although candidates with other relevant enforcement backgrounds and transferable investigative skills will also be considered.

You will be an excellent communicator with the ability to manage a demanding caseload, build effective partnerships and work confidently within a team environment.

We offer support and training for personal development within a friendly working environment.

DBS Check: An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required.

Benefits of Working with Us 

At Thurrock Council, we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package, including: 

• Generous annual leave entitlement 


• Local Government Pension Scheme 


• Flexible and hybrid working opportunities (where applicable) 


• Ongoing training and professional development 


• Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support 


• Staff discounts and local offers 


• A supportive and inclusive working environment 

Important Dates 

Closing Date (Redeployment Only): 6th August 2026

Closing Date (Internal & External): 20th September 2026

Interview Date: To Be Confirmed

Additional Information 

For an informal discussion about any of these posts, please contact Charlotte Edwards, Trading Standards Manager, via [email protected] 

To view the Job Profile and Person Specification, please follow the link below: 

Download Job Profile (PDF Document)

Safer Recruitment Application Requirements

As part of the Safer Recruitment process, Gap Management from when leaving full-time education is required for all Safeguarding roles. Please complete the Gaps in Employment grid provided (refer to the example document for guidance) and upload it under Miscellaneous Documents as part of your application.  Please provide a full history with explanations of any gaps and ensure you also upload a copy of your full CV. 

If the Job Profile and Person Specification list any qualifications as essential, please also upload copies of those relevant qualifications. 

Gaps in Employment Form 

Gaps in Employment Example