Identification Officer - Fingerprints

National Crime Agency.; Tamworth; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A government law enforcement agency in Tamworth is looking for a forensic professional to support efforts against serious crime by providing fingerprint analysis and handling evidence. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills and experience with fingerprint databases. Responsibilities include examining crime scene marks, maintaining evidence integrity, and ensuring compliance with standards. This role offers 26 days of annual leave, pension contributions, and flexible working options.

Benefits

Annual leave: 26 to 31 days

Pension contributions

Flexible working options

Family-friendly policies

Interest-free loans

Qualifications

• Must analyze and evaluate friction ridge detail effectively.
• Should handle evidence and maintain its integrity.
• Must understand relevant legislation related to fingerprint analysis.

Responsibilities

• Process fingerprints and examine crime scene marks.
• Perform searches in national and international databases.
• Validate fingerprint methods to ensure ISO compliance.

Skills

Friction ridge detail analysis

Experience with fingerprint database systems

Knowledge of fingerprint standards and accreditation

Handling exhibits and evidence

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Strong communication skills

Effective time management

Job description

Overview

Forensic Services supports the National Crime Agency’s (NCA) fight against serious and organised crime. Through compliance with the Forensic Science Regulator’s Codes of Practice and ISO 17025, the Identification Bureau delivers fingerprint and DNA evidence and intelligence.

Responsibilities

• Process subject fingerprints and examine scene‑of‑crime marks in line with bureau policy and quality standards.
• Carry out manual or electronic searches, including national database (IDENT1) and international exchanges (Prüm).
• Maintain operational and technical efficiency of all identification services.
• Operate biometric systems, perform identity checks and ensure data integrity and legal compliance (e.g. Protection of Freedoms Act).
• Validate and verify fingerprint methods to demonstrate ISO 17025 compliance.
• Support the training and progression of future expert witnesses through the fingerprint learning programme.

Essential Technical Skills & Qualifications

• Friction ridge detail analysis, comparison and evaluation of tenprints or marks.
• Current knowledge and experience of fingerprint database systems.
• Understanding of fingerprint standards, regulation and accreditation (FSR CoP&C / ISO 17025:2017).
• Experience improving a positive or inclusive team environment.
• Handling exhibits and evidence (receipt, storage, continuity, and integrity).
• Management of biographic and biometric records in digital and hard‑copy.
• Knowledge of relevant governance and legislation (PoFA, AFSPR, CPIA, UKAS).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and ability to learn forensic applications.
• Strong communication and customer‑service skills.
• Effective time‑management ensuring tasks meet agreed standards.

Assessment Process

1. Technical assessment – 250‑word examples on friction ridge analysis, database experience, standards, and team improvement.
2. Longlist – applicants meeting the minimum pass mark for lead criteria only proceed to assessment.
3. Interview – panel evaluates behaviours (Working Together, Changing and Improving) and technical criteria.
4. Successful applicants may receive a reserve list position if no role is immediately available.

Nationality Requirements

• UK nationals, Republic of Ireland nationals, and Commonwealth nationals with right to work in the UK.
• EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein nationals and their settled or pre‑settled family members.
• Individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible for EUSS before 31 December 2020.
• Turkish nationals and certain family members with accrued right to work in the Civil Service.

Working Hours & Location

The role is based in Tamworth and does not offer hybrid working. Flexible working is considered with a minimum of 30 hours per week.

Security

Applicants must meet security requirements, including a security check and baseline personnel security standard.

Benefits

• Annual leave: 26 days (new entrants), rising to 31 days after 5 years.
• National Crime Agency pension contribution of £10,445 towards the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.
• Flexible working options (flexi‑time, compressed hours, job sharing).
• Family‑friendly policies and learning & development opportunities.
• Interest‑free loans, housing schemes (Key Worker status) and discounts through various schemes.
• Staff support groups/networks and sports/society activities via the Civil Service Sports Council.