Salary
£34,434 - £40,777 per annum
Contractual hours
37
Basis
Full time
Package
We offer a supportive environment in an organisation with flexible working hours and a Local Government Pension scheme. We believe in valuing diversity and are committed to equal opportunities as a Disability Confident Employer
Job category/type
Environmental Health
Date posted
18/02/2026
Job reference
REQ000383
North Devon Council has an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and self-motivated 'Licensing Officer - Animal Licensing Inspector' to join its friendly licensing team. You will be located in a beautiful area of the country, with lots to offer a successful candidate.
You will be qualified or working towards becoming competent to undertake animal licensing inspections, covering the Licensing of Activities Involving Animals Regulations, Zoo Licensing Act, Dangerous Wild Animals Act and Primate Regulations.
North Devon Council is striving to have a strong reputation for its pro-active work across licensing. You will have the ability to have a positive impact on the community of North Devon, assisting in the promotion and safeguarding of public safety and animal welfare through the operation of an effective and efficient licensing regulatory regime.
Salary will be determined depending on whether a Level 3 qualification in Inspection of Animal Establishments for Animal Activities Licensing (or equivalent) granted by a body recognised and regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation is held. Applications from those without relevant qualification will be considered if the applicant can demonstrate significant relevant experience in an animal regulatory role. The successful candidate would need to commit to undertake the qualification within the first six months of starting the role.
Based at Brynsworthy Environment Centre, Barnstaple you will regularly be on district undertaking inspections, visits and surveillance and be able to benefit from the hybrid working policy.
The role is varied, covering an interesting and diverse workload and all aspects of licensing. It will focus on animal welfare, and areas such as hackney carriage and private hire, alcohol and entertainment, gambling, pavement licensing and scrap metal. The role will be proactive in terms of regulation, with the need to inspect, risk rate, and actively investigate customer requests and complaints.
The successful applicant will have a positive 'can do' attitude and demonstrate experience in enforcing legislation. You will be calm, use sound judgement, and diplomacy when undertaking robust regulatory sanctions, which may impact on livelihoods, for example in suspending and revoking licences.
You will be able to put your knowledge into practice in providing expert advice to a variety of stakeholders and in responding to complex queries. You will on occasion be tasked with preparation of reports and evidence files; and need to present evidence in legal proceedings.
We need someone who can confidently and effectively communicate with different audiences and liaise with other external partners such as the Police, RSPCA, and local veterinarians.
This position will require strong interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and a high level of organisational skills to manage a diverse workload. You will need to maintain accurate records and ensure data quality. Having the confidence to take decisions within agreed parameters will be essential.
You will need a valid driving licence and access to a motor vehicle with relevant insurance for business purposes.
North Devon Council is proud to offer an excellent benefits package to all of our employees including:
* A Local Government Pension Scheme and ability to make additional voluntary contributions (AVC).
* BHN Extras and Kaarp benefit platforms – giving access to discounts and offers, e.g. a cycle to work scheme, and MyGym discounts.
* Excellent training and development opportunities.
* Generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to purchase additional leave.
* Employee support offering a variety of employee wellbeing services to support a healthy work/life balance and lifestyle.
What next?
At North Devon Council we are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. If we sound like the right fit for you and you feel like the right fit for us, we would welcome your application.
Alternatively, if you would like to find out more about the post, the team or working with us at the Council please contact Katy Nicholls on or via email
Interview date:23 March 2026
If you have not heard by the interview date, please assume that you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.