Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP 26 - C3)

Derbyshire; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Derbyshire Constabulary in the East Midlands is recruiting an Operational Police Officer. You’ll work frontline, handle a wide range of incidents, and protect communities through decisions based on risk and rights.

The role involves long shifts, diverse duties and active community engagement within a forward-looking force that prioritises integrity, resilience and public service.

Qualifications

• Two A levels or Level 3 equivalent or be in final year of study.
• Current PCSO who has completed development plan, passed probation, 12 months service and up-to-date mandatory training.
• Special Constable with independent patrol status, 16 hours per month consistently completed and up-to-date mandatory training.
• Current NIO with PIP1, completed probation, 12 months’ service and all mandatory training.
• Two years' experience in a public-facing role in Investigation, Emergency Services or Prison Service.
• Have left the Armed Forces within the last 5 years as of date of application.
• Must hold a full, valid UK or EU manual driving licence before pre-employment checks progress.

Responsibilities

• Provide frontline response to a broad range of incidents—often complex, sometimes confrontational—making proportionate decisions based on risk, threat and harm.
• Play a key role in local partnerships, working with organisations and communities to problem-solve, engage, reassure and build trust.
• Engage sensitively and professionally with victims, witnesses, suspects and vulnerable individuals, upholding equality, diversity and human rights at all times.
• Identify risks to individuals and take action to protect them, addressing safety or vulnerability concerns before they escalate.
• Conduct priority and high-volume investigations, creating high-quality case files that support criminal justice processes.
• Gather, handle and act on information, intelligence and evidence in line with legislation, policy and guidance.

Job description

Join Us as an Operational Police Officer!

If you’re looking for a career where every day is different and your actions truly matter, becoming a Police Constable with Derbyshire Constabulary could be the perfect next step. This is a role that demands adaptability, quick thinking and a commitment to doing the right thing—even when no one is watching.

As a frontline officer, you’ll never quite know what the next call will bring. You’ll work long, often 12‑hour shifts, meet people from every walk of life and be expected to make decisions that protect lives and uphold public confidence. It’s challenging, unpredictable and fast‑paced—but it’s also incredibly rewarding. From safeguarding the vulnerable and saving lives to making your community feel safer, this is a career filled with purpose and pride.

When you join us, you’ll be part of a forward‑thinking, innovative force dedicated to keeping Derbyshire safe for everyone who lives, works and visits here. If you want to learn more about the role.

Salary

Starting salary: £32,256 rising annually to £52,014 within 7 years.

What You’ll Be Doing

As an Operational Officer, you’ll:

• Provide a frontline response to a broad range of incidents—often complex, sometimes confrontational—making proportionate decisions based on risk, threat and harm.
• Play a key role in local partnerships, working with organisations and communities to problem‑solve, engage, reassure and build trust.
• Engage sensitively and professionally with victims, witnesses, suspects and vulnerable individuals, ensuring you uphold equality, diversity and human rights at all times.
• Identify risks to individuals and take resolute action to protect them, addressing safety or vulnerability concerns before they elevate.
• Conduct effective priority and high‑volume investigations, creating high‑quality case files that support criminal justice processes.
• Gather, handle and act on information, intelligence and evidence in line with legislation, policy and guidance.

The Must Haves

You Must Have One Of The Following

• 2 A levels or a Level 3 equivalent or be in your final year of study. OR
• Be a current PCSO who has completed your development plan, passed probation, served 12 months and is up to date with mandatory training. OR
• Be a Special Constable with independent patrol status, 16 hours per month consistently completed, and up‑to‑date mandatory training. OR
• Be a current NIO with PIP1, completed probation, 12 months’ service and all mandatory training. OR
• Have 2 years' experience in a public‑facing role and currently employed in one of the following areas: Investigation, Emergency Services or Prison Service.
• Have left the Armed Forces within the last 5 years as of the date of your application.
• You must also hold a full, valid UK or EU manual driving licence before pre‑employment checks can progress.

Please review the qualification and experience guidance before applying - it’s your responsibility to ensure you meet the criteria at application stage.

Anticipated start: Spring and Summer 2027.

Training: 32 weeks (leave is pre‑booked throughout this period).

What’s in It for You?

At Derbyshire Constabulary, we’re committed to creating an environment where you feel supported, empowered and able to be your best. You’ll benefit from a wide range of rewards and benefits designed to help you thrive both professionally and personally.

Next Steps

Interested in joining us? We’ve also provided guidance to help you navigate the recruitment process.

Please note: once we receive sufficient applications, the campaign may close earlier than advertised.

Who We Are

We’re Derbyshire Constabulary—a force that puts people and communities at the heart of everything we do. Innovative, inclusive and committed to excellence, we’re here to protect, support and serve. To understand how you can make Derbyshire safer together visit our careers website.

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and encourage anyone who has considered a career in policing to apply. We’re particularly keen to increase the number of females and candidates from black and minority ethnic communities and the LGBT community, so that we can truly reflect the communities that we serve in.