Location
London Borough of Tower Hamlets

Hours
35 hours per week with flexible working arrangements

Salary
£57,495 per annum

About the Role
Tower Hamlets is a vibrant, multicultural borough rich in history and diversity. The Environmental Protection Team plays a crucial role in managing noise and vibration issues across the borough, working collaboratively with Council departments such as Planning, Licensing, Arts and Events, Health and Housing, as well as local residents and external contractors. The team is responsible for assessing complex acoustic reports related to planning applications, providing expert advice based on current legislation and the Tower Hamlets Local Plan, and managing Control of Pollution Act (COPA) 1974 section 61 applications and dispensations.

Key duties include statutory noise nuisance assessments, sound level meter data analysis using specialist software, compiling detailed responses to Environmental Information Regulations, Freedom of Information requests, and Ombudsman enquiries, and following up on public service requests. You will act as a statutory consultee and advisor to other council teams such as Planning, Building Control, Licensing, and Highways & Engineering on noise and vibration matters, and liaise with external partners as appropriate.

The role offers structured training opportunities (CPD), advisory and enforcement work, an additional car user/travel allowance, and a minimum of six weeks paid leave annually. You will also be expected to attend court, prepare prosecution files, give evidence, and participate in PACE interviews.

The team is part of the Environmental Health and Trading Standards Service, drawing on a wide range of expertise and resources. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who demonstrate enthusiasm, effectiveness, and determination to develop their career in environmental health and protection within a dynamic local authority setting.

Experience
- Recent experience providing comments on large-scale planning applications
- Proven track record in leading complex noise and pollution investigations, including detailed site measurements and acoustic report analysis
- Detailed and current knowledge of case law precedents relating to statutory nuisance, public nuisance, and licensing controls
- Good understanding of relevant legislation and best practice, including the Environmental Protection Act 1990, Control of Pollution Act 1974, and recent guidance from the National Planning Policy Framework, British Standards Institute, WHO, IOA, ANC, and Defra

About you
- Self-motivated with a strong appreciation of the Council’s wider environmental agenda
- Effective communicator able to liaise with internal teams and external partners
- Able to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
- Committed to delivering high-quality enforcement and advisory services

Qualifications
- Essential: Noise-specific qualification such as MSc or Diploma in Noise Control and Acoustics
- Desirable: Substantive local authority enforcement experience or relevant degree in acoustics
- Willingness to participate in continuous professional development and training