PS/203/H - A5 Digital Forensic Investigator, Hi-Tech Crime Unit

The Hi Tech Crime Unit is the Force's dedicated team responsible for the identification, forensic extraction and interpretation of intelligence and evidence from computers, mobiles, tablets and other digital devices in accordance with ACPO guidelines.

Working mainly in a busy laboratory at Police HQ in Welwyn Garden City, successful applicants will work with case investigators to identify critical information held on devices, and then use a range of technical skills to extract that data. They will also be expected to attend warrants to provide technical support on-site.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate an excellent in-depth knowledge of the different operating systems available on computers and mobile devices and have a passion for all things technical. They must also have a comprehensive knowledge of the different types of physical hardware and components that make up these devices as well as show an understanding of how the data is stored on them.

The role holders will be expected to give high quality written and oral technical evidence to be presented to officers, CPS and court as well as be able to explain complex, technical concepts in a manner a non-technical layperson could easily understand.

Successful applicants will have either an existing degree level or higher qualification in a relevant discipline such as computer science, or demonstrate a similar level of skills from vocational experience. Training will be provided to achieve the qualifications needed to undertake the duties of this post.

Most significant of all, candidates must be able to demonstrate a very strong aptitude for learning new techniques and complex software quickly and comprehensively, as well as demonstrating an eye for detail and a strong general skillset that would make them an excellent investigator, enabling them to handle a heavy case load and manage multiple priorities.

Applicants should also be aware a large proportion of the work of the unit involves the investigation of paedophilia.

For further information please contact Ian Howard on 01707 355870.

For the purposes of the application you will be expected to provide evidence against the four personal qualities below and the entry requirements:

• Service Delivery
• Professionalism
• Decision Making
• Working with Others

There is a word count limit of 500 words per section.

Please note, if you are shortlisted for interview you will be expected to evidence against all personal qualities and the entry requirements stipulated in the role profile.

All applications must be received by the closing date.

We welcome applications from external candidates as well as internal staff from Hertfordshire Constabulary.


Due to the nature of this role, the successful candidate will be required to pass a psychological assessment with the Occupational Health Unit prior to being posted to the new role.


Please note that in the first instance priority will be given to any applicants in a redeployment situation.

Any individuals in a redeployment situation who are interested in applying for the role should contact the HRST (HREnquiries@herts.pnn.police.uk) and request the redeployee application form.

Please note that with immediate effect: Police Staff at risk of redundancy (redeployees) are given priority for all vacant posts. This means that if a candidate is successful for a position following an interview/assessment, the role will still be available to redeployees up until the successful candidate has received a final offer of employment. Therefore it is possible that a redeployee could be offered and given priority to the vacant post up until the point that the successful candidate has received their final offer letter.

If you are currently protected under the multiple impact mechanism, please contact your HR Advisor prior to applying for this post to see how it may affect your salary.

Police Officers who accept an offer of a Police Staff role will need to retire as an Officer and if they are currently on the 30+ Scheme, will need to leave that Scheme.

Police Officers considering retirement and being re-employed as Police Staff are required to read the attached Briefing Note as it contains important tax information regarding retirement and pension payments.