Environmental Rapid Response Operative

About the Role

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council is seeking an Environmental Rapid Response Operative to join its Environmental Enforcement team. This key position requires a proactive individual prepared to respond swiftly to waste-related problems across the borough, helping to support enforcement activities and maintain a clean, inviting environment for the community and visitors.

Key Responsibilities

• Respond promptly to incidents of improper waste disposal by residents or businesses.
• Clear fly-tipping and accumulated waste where necessary.
• Conduct patrols in known problem areas to detect and deter environmental violations.
• Collect and document evidence of illegal waste disposal to assist enforcement actions.
• Provide written witness statements during enforcement investigations.
• Address inquiries and complaints from the public, elected officials, and others.
• Collaborate closely with Environmental Enforcement Officers, council waste partners, and other departments to resolve issues.
• Maintain precise manual and digital records of activities.
• Promote the council’s Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion values within daily work.

Candidate Profile

• Possess Level 2 qualifications in Numeracy and Literacy or an equivalent level of education.
• Hold a current full driving license including category C1.
• Have practical experience with proper waste disposal and recycling procedures.
• Be experienced in teamwork and comfortable engaging with the public.
• Demonstrate flexibility in working hours, including shifts during early mornings and weekends when necessary.
• Understand health and safety principles and apply safe working practices consistently.
• Be physically fit to work outdoors in all weather conditions and capable of handling physically demanding tasks.
• Maintain professionalism, dependability, and confidence when interacting with residents, businesses, and colleagues.
• Be self-motivated with the ability to work independently and accept responsibility for personal actions.

Team and Collaboration Environment

This role is integrated within the wider Environmental Enforcement service, working alongside officers and external partners in managing waste issues and improving borough cleanliness and environmental standards. Collaboration with other council services, waste contractors, community organizations, emergency services, and stakeholders is a core component.

Benefits and Work Conditions

• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Annual leave starting at 28 days, increasing to 34 days after five years of service.
• Additional concessionary leave during Christmas.
• Family-friendly policies encouraging work support.
• Access to training and professional development opportunities.
• Provision of uniform and essential equipment.
• A stable, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture.

Additional Information

Uniform is mandatory while on duty.

The role requires submission of a CV and supporting statement addressing specific competencies related to waste disposal experience, teamwork, communication with the public, health and safety knowledge, alignment with council values, and flexible working.

Applications without the required supporting statement will not be considered. The employer reserves the right to close the vacancy earlier than advertised if sufficient applications are received. Previous applicants are discouraged from applying again.

Special considerations are extended for internal candidates at risk of redundancy, Care Leavers, and Disability Confident candidates. Support is available for applicants with disabilities needing help to submit their applications.

For informal inquiries, contact the Senior Environmental Enforcement Officer via email or telephone.