Principal Environmental health Officer (Environmental Protection)

Are you an experienced Environmental Health professional looking for the opportunity to lead, influence and shape the delivery of a high-performing Environmental Protection service?

South Derbyshire District Council is seeking an ambitious and motivated Principal Environmental Health Officer to lead our Environmental Protection Team and play a key role in protecting and improving the environment and public health across the District.

As the lead officer for Environmental Protection, you will be responsible for managing a skilled team of environmental health and enforcement professionals, ensuring the Council meets its statutory duties while delivering excellent outcomes for residents, businesses and communities. You will provide technical leadership, oversee complex investigations and enforcement action, drive service improvement and contribute to the strategic direction of Environmental Services.

We are looking for someone who:

• Holds a Degree or Masters in Environmental Health and is registered with the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health.
• Has substantial experience of working within Environmental Protection and regulatory services.
• Can demonstrate effective performance management and service delivery skills.
• Possesses excellent leadership, communication and influencing skills.
• Has experience of managing complex investigations, enforcement cases and legal proceedings.
• Can develop effective working relationships with residents, businesses, elected members and partner organisations.

What We Offer

• Flexible and hybrid working opportunities.
• A varied and rewarding role where you can make a visible difference.
• Excellent training and professional development opportunities.
• A supportive and friendly working environment.
• The opportunity to shape the future delivery of Environmental Protection services.
• Offices based in Swadlincote, at the heart of the beautiful National Forest.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Environmental Health professional seeking their next leadership role, or for an existing Principal Officer looking to further develop their career within a progressive and forward-thinking authority.

If you are passionate about environmental protection, public health, developing people and delivering high-quality regulatory services, we would love to hear from you.

Provisional Interview Date: Week commencing 30 November 2026

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Due to this post having access to children and/or vulnerable adults, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining this post, as all cases are judged individually according to the nature of the role and information provided. Click here to see our policy on criminal background checks.

Please be aware that Derbyshire County Council is placing this advert on behalf of this organisation and you should refer directly to its website for details of the terms and conditions attached to this post. Any queries regarding this advert or the recruitment process should be made directly to the organisation.