Port Health Technical Support Assistant

Ashford Borough Council is seeking motivated and detail-oriented individuals to join our Port Health team as Technical Support Assistants. This is a unique opportunity to play a vital role in protecting public health by supporting the inspection and control of imported food and goods at the UK’s inland Border Control Post in Sevington.

Working under the supervision of the Business Support Manager, you will assist Official Veterinarians and Principal Port Health Officers in carrying out statutory checks on:

Products of animal origin
High-risk food not of animal origin
Organic food, animal composites, and other regulated imports

In addition, you will be involved in documentary and physical inspections and sample handling and dispatch, along with:

Enforcement support and complaint response
Database and system management (e.g., PHILIS, IPAFFS)
Stakeholder liaison with importers, agents, and enforcement bodies

This is a hands-on role requiring physical fitness, attention to detail, and a commitment to public health and food safety.

We are looking for candidates with experience in food safety, import/export, or related industries and have:

Strong IT, communication, and problem-solving skills
A flexible, proactive attitude and commitment to learning
The ability to work in temperature-controlled environments and at height
Willingness to handle food allergens and perform physical tasks

Experience in enforcement, regulatory services, or knowledge of UK/EU food law is desirable.

This role is based on a shift pattern covering 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Our primary location is Sevington BCP, with occasional work at other council sites. There will be exposure to allergens (e.g., nuts, fish) and physical sampling duties.

You must maintain a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) report

At Ashford Borough Council, you will be part of a dedicated team safeguarding public health at the UK border. We offer:

A dynamic and supportive work environment
Opportunities for career development and training
A chance to contribute to national food safety and regulatory standards

For an informal discussion about the role please contact Lorraine Warman, Port Health Business Support Team Leader, on 0300 0424538

Click to view aJob Description

When Applying - Please ensure that you have received confirmation of a submitted application once completed. For any assistance in completing the application form, please email recruitment@ashford.gov.uk

Competitive remuneration package - We offer an excellent salary linked pension scheme, generous annual leave, free life insurance, and opportunities for training and development.

With devolution news and talks evolving across the country for local authorities, we understand that there may be some uncertainty for those currently serving within the sector. Although Kent and Medway have not been included in the Devolution Priority Programme, discussions continue in this area. Kent, Medway and all District and Borough Councils in the South East will continue to work closely with each other to deliver vital services to our communities. This is an exciting, but stable time to join our organisation.

Ashford Borough Council recognises the need to ensure the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults when they come into contact with the services we provide

We welcome applications form the Armed Forces Community