Port Health Technical Officer - London
£19.77 PAYE / £25.74 Umbrella (Inside IR35)
Full Time – 4 Week Rolling Shift Pattern. Ongoing Contract.
We are currently recruiting for a Port Health Technical Officer to join a busy Port Health Service based in London, with travel required across Thurrock and Tilbury. This is a varied, task‑based role combining detailed administrative work with operational duties in a live port environment. You will play a key role in the control and inspection of imported goods, supporting Port Health Officers and working closely with external stakeholders. The role offers limited hybrid working following an initial fully office‑based induction period (approx. 12 weeks), after which a rota‑based 60/40 office/home split is introduced.
Responsibilities
* Processing large volumes of data and documentation using internal IT systems
* Cross‑checking import documentation against shipments and regulatory requirements
* Managing emails, records, and database systems accurately
* Carrying out inspections in border control posts, inspection rooms, chillers and freezers
* Conducting seal checks, ID checks and supporting sampling activities
* Taking photographs of products, packaging and labels for records
* Liaising with agents, importers and stakeholders regarding documentation and compliance
* Supporting Port Health Officers and Official Veterinarians with inspections and checks
* Proactively managing workload in a task‑based environment with minimal supervision
Requirements
* Strong IT skills and confidence working with databases and Microsoft Office
* Excellent attention to detail – comfortable working with numbers, codes and documentation all day
* Full UK driving licence and access to a car (essential)
* Willingness to travel between multiple port locations (travel time and expenses covered)
* Comfortable working in an industrial port environment, including:
o Long periods on your feet
o Cold environments (chillers/freezers)
o Mixed office and operational duties depending on shift
* Must be comfortable handling all types of products including alcohol, gelatine and occasionally raw meat/fish
* No restrictions around working with allergens (nuts, spices, shellfish etc.)
* Reliable, professional and able to work effectively as part of a team
Working Pattern
* 4‑week rolling shift pattern
* Fixed shifts (no flexibility on hours)
* 1 weekend in every 8 weeks
* Requirement to work 2 bank holidays per year
This role would suit candidates from a wide range of backgrounds including warehouse, logistics, inspection, food handling or regulated environments. The key is strong attention to detail, IT confidence, and the ability to work across both desk‑based and operational tasks.
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