Key Responsibilities
Support enforcement and administrative activities in relation to trading standards and online consumer protection.
Gather and handle digital evidence in line with legal and forensic standards.
Carry out online inspections, research, and intelligence gathering using open-source techniques.
Provide evidence in criminal or civil proceedings.
Contribute to safeguarding and welfare responsibilities.
Additional responsibilities by grade:
Grade G:
Apply advanced online research techniques and intelligence gathering.
Provide enhanced technical support to complex online investigations.
Grade H:
Take decisions on infringements and enforcement actions.
Undertake complex investigations and prepare detailed reports for potential prosecutions.
Apply and interpret trading standards legislation in practical scenarios.
Grade JK (Lead Officer):
Lead national or regional projects, from scoping through to delivery and reporting.
Mentor and supervise staff, providing quality assurance on disruption work.
Act as authorised officer for covert and overt disruption activities.
Contribute to the drafting and review of processes to ensure compliance with regulatory standards (e.g. ISO 17025/17020).
Represent the service on national working groups and provide training to partner agencies.
Person Specification
Essential (Grade F upwards):
Strong IT literacy with working knowledge of computer hardware and software.
Knowledge of internet technologies and online platforms.
Investigative mindset with the ability to analyse information from multiple sources.
Good written and spoken communication skills, including the ability to give evidence in court.
Grade progression requires:
Training and/or certification in open-source investigation, intelligence gathering, and enforcement procedures (e.g. RIPA/IPA).
Increasing knowledge of legislation, digital forensics, and online investigation techniques.
Demonstrable experience in trading standards or similar regulatory/enforcement environments.
At Lead Officer level, a relevant degree or significant professional experience in investigations, digital forensics, or intelligence.
Desirable:
Knowledge of digital forensic best practice and ACPO Good Practice Guide.
Awareness of ISO standards relevant to digital evidence handling.
Coding/scripting knowledge related to website design or online investigation.
Other Requirements
Willingness to travel across the UK, sometimes at short notice.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and bank holidays as needed.
Ability to obtain and maintain NPPV3 security vetting.
Access to personal transport for business use.
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