Environment Protection Officer

Environment Protection Officer – Deposit Return Scheme Team

We are recruiting for two full‑time Environment Protection Officers on a permanent basis to support the regulatory oversight of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) and authorised waste sites across Scotland.

• Deliver regulatory inspection and compliance activity for the DRS administrator and authorised waste sites in Scotland.
• Collaborate with other UK national regulators to understand cross‑border regulation and ensure a consistent approach for the new DRS administrator.
• Identify and manage the data requirements needed to fulfill SEPA’s regulatory role, ensuring effective collection, use and protection of that data.
• Respond to industry queries and engagement requests from obligated companies.
• Support the review of SEPA policy, guidance and FAQ responses following regulatory or policy changes.
• Assist in drafting information and guidance documents to meet the needs of industry, scheme administrators and SEPA.
• Prepare for the new regulatory role, including reviewing and updating planned activity, training, processes and procedures.
• Provide support to the Unit Manager with internal and external communications, FOI (Freedom of Information) requests and OME (Official Ministerial Enquiries) responses.
• Conduct compliance checks, manage complaint responses and perform enforcement activities.

• Relevant experience or qualification to SCQF Level 8‑10 (minimum HND).
• Technical knowledge and experience of environmental regulation and the ability to provide advice to internal stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct investigations, inspections and interventions, including fieldwork, while adhering to health and safety protocols.
• Experience building relationships with partners and customers, and handling challenging situations professionally.
• Experience producing detailed written reports, documentation, and proposing recommendations and conclusions.

• Hybrid and flexible working opportunities.
• Up to 35 days annual leave plus 7 additional public holidays each year (pro rata).
• Paid time off to support personal wellbeing and enable volunteering in the community.
• Progressive family‑friendly policies.
• Training and development programmes to enhance skills, competencies and knowledge.
• 24/7 access to an online employee discount platform, credit union facilities and a Cycle to Work Scheme.

SEPA is committed to promoting equality, diversity and good relations in all aspects of its operations. We are a Disability Confident employer and welcome reasonable adjustments and equipment to support applicants and employees. Applicants with visual impairment can request job descriptions and application forms in Braille, large print or on tape. All shortlisted candidates will undergo Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) pre‑employment checks.

Scotland, United Kingdom – ML1 4WQ
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£39,725 to £43,887 per year (salary based on experience and qualifications).