Environmental Rapid Response Operative

We are recruiting an Environmental Rapid Response Operative to join our Environmental Enforcement team. This frontline role focuses on responding quickly to waste‑related issues, supporting enforcement activity, and ensuring Sandwell remains a clean and welcoming place for residents, businesses, and visitors.

About you

We are looking for a committed and proactive individual who can work independently and as part of a team to resolve environmental issues across the borough.

You will need

• Level 2 qualification in Numeracy and Literacy (or equivalent).
• A full, current driving licence with C1.
• Experience of correct waste disposal and recycling practices.
• Experience working in a team environment and engaging with members of the public.
• A willingness to work flexibly, including early mornings and occasional weekends.
• A good understanding of health and safety at work and safe working practices.
• The ability to maintain accurate records, work outdoors in all weather, and handle items requiring a reasonable level of physical fitness.

You will be dependable, professional, and able to interact confidently with residents, businesses, partners, and council officers. You should also be able to work with minimal supervision and take responsibility for your own actions.

You will be expected to uphold Sandwell Council’s values: One Team, Customer Focussed, Inclusive, Ambitious, and Accountable.

Uniforms must be worn on duty.

As an Environmental Rapid Response Operative, you will

• Respond to waste‑related issues where residents or businesses have disposed of waste incorrectly.
• Remove fly‑tipping and waste accumulations as required.
• Patrol known hotspot areas to identify and prevent environmental issues.
• Gather and record evidence of incorrect waste disposal to support enforcement action.
• Provide written witness statements for enforcement processes and investigations.
• Respond to enquiries and complaints from residents, councillors, and MPs.
• Work closely with Environmental Enforcement Officers, the council’s waste partner, and other departments to resolve issues.
• Maintain accurate manual and electronic records.
• Support the delivery of Sandwell’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) values.

This is a highly visible, public‑facing role that plays a vital part in keeping Sandwell clean, safe, and well‑maintained.

The Team

You will be part of the wider Environmental Enforcement service, working alongside Enforcement Officers and other partners to manage waste‑related issues and contribute to borough-wide cleanliness and environmental standards.

The role involves partnership working with:

• Other council services
• Our waste contractor
• Community groups and voluntary organisations
• Emergency services and wider stakeholders

This is a supportive and collaborative team environment with opportunities to gain further experience in environmental enforcement and community safety work.

What We Offer

• Flexible working arrangements
• 28 days annual leave, rising to 34 days after 5 years
• Additional concessionary days at Christmas
• Family friendly policies
• Training and development opportunities,
• All necessary uniform and equipment
• A stable, friendly, and inclusive working environment

For an informal conversation please contact Mark Smith, Senior Environmental Enforcement Officer, Email or Telephone:

Closing date

19 August 2026

Interview date

Wednesday 2 September 2026

For more information about working for Sandwell Council, our recruitment process and our offer to you please visit

to find out more about our One Team Framework: Values and Behaviours

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