Overview
*Two positions available* Dover District Council has an exciting agenda to deliver first class public services, putting our residents at the heart of everything we do, from building new, affordable homes to exciting regeneration schemes. A career with Dover District Council offers you the opportunity to excel. As an employer, Dover District Council is proud to provide a supportive, friendly and diverse working environment in which our employees can thrive. We have a team of enthusiastic employees, delivering services they are passionate about.
Port Health Authority DPHA is the statutory Port Health Authority for the Port of Dover and the Channel Tunnel Frontier, responsible for safeguarding this critical border from the introduction of potentially catastrophic diseases. Our work at the frontline is of national significance and has gained international recognition and praise for the removal to date of over 260 tonnes of illegal products of animal origin destined for our shelves. You will play a key role in this essential and evolving work.
The Role and Responsibilities
We are looking for enthusiastic Port Health Technical Support Officers to join our existing port health team to implement a range of checks that protect public and animal health at the border. The role is predominantly port based and involves conducting vehicle searches to inspect loads to identify, remove and process non-compliant goods.
You will be working in variable and challenging environments and will need to physically fit to undertake this role. The role also includes conducting paperwork checks, collecting and recording evidence, preparing inspection equipment and providing advice to customers.
We work a shift-based pattern which includes evenings, weekends and bank holidays. You will be required to participate in special exercises which may occur during nights, evenings, weekends, and bank holidays. This role requires you to work at the Port of Dover, Coquelles and Dover District Council offices.
Candidates must have:
* GCSE (Grade A-C/4-9) in English and Maths (or equivalent); we will require evidence of these qualifications;
* Level 3 qualification (or higher) in a science, catering or food-based subject (evidence required) OR demonstrable experience working in a food safety, port health or enforcement team;
* Experience of working in an office environment;
* Ability to use computer systems and databases and experience of using MS Office packages.
Due to the nature of the role, you will have the ability to work flexibly and will require a current full driving licence effective in the UK and use of a motor vehicle for business use.
What Can We Offer?
We can provide a friendly and supportive environment for you to excel in. We also offer several employee benefits, subject to eligibility criteria, such as:
* Shift Allowance
* Benenden Healthcare Membership and access to Employee Assistance Program
* An Opt-in Local government pension scheme with the opportunity for staff to make advanced, voluntary contributions (AVCs) to top up their pension
* A generous annual leave provision
* A discount scheme including reduced membership rates at the local leisure centre
* On-site parking
* Cycle2Work scheme (eligibility criteria applies)
* Generous Salary Sacrifice Car Scheme (eligibility criteria applies)
Due to the nature of this role, the successful applicant will be required to undertake Enhanced DBS and Counter Terrorist checks as part of their pre-employment clearances.
The quality of your application will be considered as part of the recruitment process.
What Next?
If you would like a further discussion about the post or the shift pattern, please contact the Port Health team at porthealthrecruitment@dover.gov.uk
Assessment centres will be held in October with successful candidates invited back for interviews.
Closing date for applications: Monday 29th September 2025
For an alternative format, or to apply using a different method, please contact us.
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