Trading Standards Professional Apprentice

This is a degree-level programme, studied at pace, so it's important you're comfortable with academic study alongside a demanding job.
What we're looking for
We're keen to hear from people who are:
- Highly motivated and willing to learn
- Organised, methodical and confident managing their time
- Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team
- Friendly, professional and confident communicators
- Detail-focused and self-motivated
- IT literate, with experience using Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel
Minimum requirements:
- A Levels (or equivalent) as a minimum
- Ideally, you'll already have completed a degree
- GCSE (or equivalent) Maths and English, or a willingness to achieve Functional Skills if not already held, Disability Confident
About Disability Confident
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to .

Do you want a career where you can genuinely make a difference?
Are you interested in tackling unfair trading, protecting consumers and keeping unsafe or illegal goods off the shelves? Ever thought about working in Trading Standards but weren't sure how to get started?
If so, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
Why this apprenticeship?
This is a fast-track Level 6 (degree-level) Trading Standards Practitioner apprenticeship, designed for people who are serious about becoming a fully qualified Trading Standards Officer as quickly as possible.
You'll be condensing the usual three years of study into two intensive years, learning on the job while gaining a nationally recognised qualification. It's challenging, fast-paced and rewarding - but you won't be doing it alone. You'll be fully supported by an experienced, friendly Trading Standards team and a specialist training provider.
What you'll be doing
As part of our Trading Standards team, you'll get stuck into a wide range of real enforcement work, including:
- Supporting Trading Standards Officers with investigations and enforcement activity
- Advising businesses and consumers on Trading Standards legislation
- Gaining hands-on experience across a broad range of consumer protection work
- Playing a key role in enforcing tobacco and vape regulations, including tackling illicit and underage sales
This role is funded through a Department of Health and Social Care investment aimed at strengthening Trading Standards enforcement - making it an especially exciting time to join, with major new legislation expected to come into force from 2027.
No two days are the same, and the work you do will have a direct, positive impact on the Thurrock community.
Where you'll work
Your office base will be at the Civic Offices, New Road, Grays, Essex but the role is varied and flexible. You'll also:
- Work from home some of the time
- Be out and about on site, visiting businesses and communities
About the apprenticeship
- Level 6 Trading Standards Practitioner Apprenticeship
- Course duration: 29 months
- Contract Length: 36 months
- Two days per week "off-the-job" training

DBS Check: At Basic Level is required for this post
Working hours
37 hours per week
- Monday-Thursday: 9am-5pm
- Friday: 9am-4.30pm
- 30-minute lunch break
Most apprenticeship study will take place during working hours, although some independent study in your own time will be 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