Are you an innovative problem solver?
Do you want to make a difference in your community by examining digital devices to obtain vital evidence?
We are now recruiting for three Data Forensic Investigators within our South West Forensics collaboration. This is a key role within the department supporting, enhancing and creating new avenues of investigation for Officers and helping to bring offenders to justice. In this role you will be part of a fast paced team dealing with the interrogation of a wide range of computers in order to obtain the best evidence possible for a wide variety of criminal cases. On a typical day you will be taking responsibility for the management of technical investigations, analysing computers and mobile devices and liaising with a broad range of Police Officers, staff and outside organisations.
Location -Bristol, Kenneth Steele House- BS2 0TQ.
In this role, your main responsibilities will be:
- To ensure continual professional and organisational development particularly in areas such as changes in technology and data recovery methods
- To assist in the maintenance of systems, storage, server facilities within the Data Forensics Crime Unit
- Manage electronic and digitally based Crime investigations including forensically examining and reconstruction of computer data to identify evidence of criminal offences. Interview suspects/witnesses and offenders providing expertise in respect of technical issues of computers.
- Build, maintain and develop all aspects of computer systems used in investigation, maintaining specialist knowledge of development of computers and software.
- Provide operational support to officers e.g. providing specialist advice and knowledge, attending search warrants to seize property utilising designated powers and conducting on site investigations.
- Provide training to other members of the unit and force in all aspects of Hi-Tech crime investigations. Become an accredited investigator to allow presentation of evidence at court in line with the Council for the Registration of Forensic Practitioners.
- Assist with Major Incident investigations providing specialist advice and knowledge in relation to Hi-Tech aspects of the investigation including:
Skills, experience and qualifications required:
- We are seeking an individual with either a degree in computer science with relevant workplace experience or who has investigatory experience and knowledge of computer based evidence gathering and computer investigation.
- You will have be computer literate and have experience in a range of operating systems (Microsoft, Linux, Android, iOS), together with a knowledge of relevant legislation. Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000.
- Knowledge of Computer Misuse Act, Criminal Justice Act, Data Protection Act and ACPO (Association of Chief Police Officers, now The National Police Chief’s council) Guidelines for Computer Based Evidence.
- Effective communication and presentation skills, along with proven investigative and analytical skills.
- Technical knowledge of computer and phone architecture. You will also have knowledge of forensic data recovery methods and software and the investigation of Internet networks.
- PLEASE NOTE - This role requires the post-holder to have the ability to work with graphic and traumatic images and information on a regular basis. If you would like more information please email us on the contact email below.
If you have any questions please contact us via [email protected]
Recruitment Information:
Shortlisting will be scheduled around w/c 23rd November 2026 followed by in-person interviews with assessment w/c 7th December 2026. However this could be subject to change.
To be eligible to apply for this role you must have a 5 year 'checkable history' in the UK - ideally this means that you would have been resident in the UK for the last 5 years.
You must hold a full UK Driving Licence or be able to have suitable personal arrangements to be transported to various locations to undertake the role as and when required.
About us
Pension Benefit
A pension that grows with you, whatever stage you're at
Alongside your salary, you'll be enrolled in the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), administered by Peninsula Pensions. This is a high-quality defined benefit pension, providing a secure, inflation-linked income for life, based on your earnings and length of service.
If you're early in your career, it's a valuable way to start building long-term financial security from day one, with employer contributions that significantly boost the value of every pound you pay in.
If you're more experienced, the scheme offers a level of certainty and stability that is now rare, helping you plan confidently for the future with predictable retirement income and benefits for your dependants.
Find out more: https://www.peninsulapensions.org.uk/local-government/
Diversity & Inclusion
Diversity is a strength and individuality is an asset. We recognise the benefit different life experience and perspectives can bring.
Click to; find out more about our benefits and culture
Closing Date
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.
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