Environmental Health Officer (Food)

Westminster City Council is seeking a qualified Environmental Health Officer (EHO) to support the delivery of food hygiene and health & safety regulatory services across one of the UK’s busiest local authorities.

This role will involve carrying out inspections of new premises and Category A–D food hygiene inspections, alongside responding to complaints and undertaking accident investigations (including RIDDOR).

We welcome applications from both experienced EHOs and those with limited experience who meet the essential qualifications and competency requirements.

Key Responsibilities
Conduct food hygiene inspections (Categories A–D) and inspections of new premises
Investigate food and health & safety complaints
Undertake accident investigations including RIDDOR reports
Assess compliance with relevant legislation and determine appropriate enforcement action
Serve enforcement notices where required (e.g. HIN, HEPN, Improvement Notices, Prohibition Notices)
Participate in legal proceedings, including preparation of evidence and court attendance where applicable
Maintain accurate, detailed records of inspections and enforcement activity
Work collaboratively with internal departments and external stakeholders
Key Skills & Experience
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust quickly and manage challenging situations
Ability to communicate legislation clearly and influence behaviour to improve compliance
Skilled in handling conflict calmly and de-escalating situations
Excellent written communication, with accurate reporting and evidence documentation
Ability to assess risk and determine appropriate interventions
Strong decision-making skills under time pressure
Effective workload planning and time management
Ability to work independently in the community and escalate risks when needed
Confident working collaboratively across teams and external partners
Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and use of handheld technology
Essential Requirements
Degree or Diploma in Environmental Health (or equivalent relevant qualification/experience)
Must meet the Food Standards Agency (FSA) Food Law Code of Practice competency framework
Registered with EHORB / CIEH (or eligible and compliant)
Experience or understanding of:
Food hygiene inspections
Health & Safety enforcement
RIDDOR investigations
Candidate Pre-Screen Requirements (Mandatory)
Before submission, candidates must provide clear responses to the following:

Food Hygiene Experience
Please explain your experience in carrying out food hygiene and standard inspections.
CPD & Competency Framework
Confirm whether your CPD and competency framework requirements are fully up to date.
Accident Investigations
Outline your experience in conducting accident (RIDDOR) investigations.
Legal & Court Experience
Detail any involvement in prosecutions, legal proceedings, or court cases.
Enforcement Action
Provide examples of notices you have served (e.g. HIN, HEPN, Improvement Notices, Prohibition Notices).
Additional Information
This role involves a mix of on-site inspections, office-based work, and some remote working
Candidates must be comfortable working independently across Westminster