Food Safety Officer

3 Month Contract With A Local Authority

Job Purpose:

To carry out inspections, re-inspections, and surveys of food premises and other relevant environments. Responsible for the investigation and enforcement of food safety legislation, managing a complex caseload, and taking appropriate action in line with the Council’s strategy and departmental enforcement policies. The role also involves providing expert advice, initiating prosecutions, and contributing to policy and project development within the service area.

Key Responsibilities:

• Undertake programmed and reactive inspections, re-inspections, surveys, and investigations of food businesses and premises.

• Manage and progress a more complex caseload of food safety-related cases and complaints.

• Prepare and serve Statutory Notices in accordance with legislative requirements and internal enforcement policies.

• Take formal enforcement actions, including the initiation of legal proceedings and preparation of prosecution files where necessary.

• Consult and negotiate with a variety of stakeholders including developers, landlords, business owners, contractors, and internal departments to ensure compliance and case resolution.

• Attend and provide evidence at Public Inquiries, court hearings, tribunals, and other legal proceedings as required.

• Carry out detailed site visits, investigations, and surveys, including those outside of core working hours when necessary.

• Prepare specifications, assess compliance, and provide expert food safety advice to internal and external parties.

• Support and review statutory notices prepared by junior colleagues and provide mentoring or guidance where appropriate.

• Maintain up-to-date and accurate records for legal and operational use, in compliance with data protection and audit requirements.

• Develop, manage or contribute to specific projects, policy areas or specialist functions within the food safety and environmental health service.

• Ensure personal food safety knowledge, qualifications, and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) remain current and compliant with legal and professional requirements.

Requirements

• Proven experience in a similar role within food safety, environmental health, or a regulatory enforcement environment.

• Strong working knowledge of relevant food safety legislation, regulations, and codes of practice (e.g., Food Safety Act 1990, Food Hygiene Regulations).

• Up-to-date and validated food safety competencies (in accordance with the Food Law Code of Practice).

• Demonstrated ability to carry out effective inspections, investigations, and enforcement actions.

• Excellent observational and investigative skills, with attention to detail.

• Proven ability to manage a caseload independently and meet deadlines.

• Strong communication, negotiation, and customer service skills.

• Ability to work flexibly, including site visits or inspections outside of normal working hours.

• Proficient in maintaining accurate and legally compliant records and reports.