Gateshead Council jobs in Newcastle upon Tyne NE20

Who we are & what we stand for

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

Protecting people. Supporting business. Shaping fair trading

What you will get to do

• 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.

Be part of the team that keeps trading fair and safe

What you will bring

• 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.

What’s in it for you

• 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 you spread the cost of essential purchases (after 6 months service).

Our commitment to you

We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to have a culture and a workplace where our people feel a sense of belonging, are respected and empowered to do their best work. We know that we deliver better services when our workforce reflects the full range of backgrounds and experiences in the society we serve. We welcome applications from suitably qualified people from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation

How to apply

You can apply online using the apply now button below. Within the form, you’ll be asked for details about you, your career history, skills, experiences and qualifications.

We advise you to be as detailed and specific as possible, paying particular attention to any of the above which are relevant to the role to which you are applying.

If you have any questions about your application, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our recruitment team via recruitment@gateshead.gov.uk

Please note: As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role. However, in high-volume recruitment situations, it may not always be practicable to interview every eligible candidate. In such cases, we may need to prioritise those who best meet the essential criteria, based on the information provided in the application.

Additionally, the Council reserves the right to close this vacancy early or adjust the shortlisting criteria, including the pass mark for interview selection, to ensure a fair and manageable recruitment process. We encourage early applications.