Research Officer (NABIS)

West Midlands Police; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional police service in Birmingham is seeking a Research Officer for the National Ballistics Intelligence Service. The role involves collecting and interpreting data on criminal use of firearms and providing insights to law enforcement. Candidates should possess knowledge of research techniques and be proficient in Microsoft applications. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to public safety through evidence-based policing efforts. Applicants need to have A level education or equivalent and relevant GCSE qualifications.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of research techniques essential for the role.
• Proficient in all Microsoft applications to fulfill role requirements.
• Effective communication skills required.

Responsibilities

• Provide information and guidance to colleagues and external contacts.
• Conduct open-source research and forensic examinations.
• Prepare briefing notes and deliver clear presentations.

Skills

Knowledge of Research techniques

Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Effective written and verbal communication skills

Teamwork

Ability to build positive relationships

Education

A level standard or equivalent

GCSE English (Grade C/4 or above)

GCSE Maths (Grade C/4 or above)

Job description

Prospective staff must be held to a higher standard of behaviour and accountability than members of the public, and that therefore their right to privacy can be fettered in certain circumstances. This is to ensure that members of the police are fully aware and accountable for the unique powers entrusted to them and the standards of professional behaviour they swear to uphold.

We are looking for talented and inspirational people who put the needs of the public at the heart of everything that they do and who want to make a difference. If you feel you are that person then we want to hear from you.

The Role & Key Responsibilities

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the National Ballistics Intelligence Service based in Birmingham as a Research Officer.

The National Ballistics Intelligence Service (NABIS) is a National agency hosted by West Midlands Police and based at Ridgepoint House in Birmingham. NABIS operates as a National Policing Capability supporting every police force across the UK. Through its national network, fast time intelligence capabilities, and proactive partnerships, NABIS provides the UK with an integrated, evidence-based approach to tackling gun crime, protecting communities, supporting investigations, and informing policy.

As a key member of the team, you will provide a research function for NABIS.

To provide a research function, responsible for the collection, collation, evaluation and interpretation of information and data relating to the Criminal Use of Firearms and the preparation of appropriate reports, briefings, and presentations for Law Enforcement Colleagues.

From your first day with us you will be part of a policing family making a real difference.

The Key Responsibilities involve

• To provide information, advice and guidance to colleagues and external contacts
• Provide effective horizon and environmental scanning to support NABIS reports, through open source research and forensic examinations
• Responsible for the maintenance of the NABIS Knowledge hub and Single Online Home
• To provide witness statements when required
• To research requests for information and engage with law enforcement and partner agencies providing support and advice
• To perform National and International firearms tracing requests by liaising with Europol, Interpol, Firearms Manufacturers, UK Military, Border Force, National Crime Agency and UK Police Forces
• Prepare briefing notes and deliver clear presentations where appropriate ensuring that the medium used is suitable for the audience
• To maintain relationships and to liaise with staff across policing and other law enforcement agencies to obtain and/or disseminate information, and actively participate in meetings
• To develop and maintain knowledge of current crime trends and patterns nationally, identifying emerging issues and threats through the interrogation of a range of sources
• To support the production of practice advice and doctrine relating to firearms crime for the law enforcement community and government

Skills & Experience

• Knowledge of Research techniques
• Proficient in all Microsoft applications including Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, and Word to fulfil role requirements
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Experience of working within a team and on own initiative
• Ability to build positive relationships with colleagues, internal and external partners

Qualifications Required

• Educated to A level standard or equivalent
• GCSE or equivalent English (Grade C/4 or above) essential
• GCSE or equivalent Maths (Grade C/4 or above) essential

Vetting

Successful applicants will be required to pass Management Vetting and Counter Terrorism Clearance scrutiny prior to commencing their role, this will include a full background & financial disclosure as part of the vetting process.

Hours and location

8-4 (36.5 hours), Ridgepoint House B8 2RU

Interviews

TBC

West Midlands Police is a Disability Confident Leader

The highest level an organisation can achieve under the scheme run by the Department of Work and Pensions. As part of our commitment we operate a 'Disability Confident Interview Scheme' all candidates who declare a disability and meet the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview.

It is important to note that there may be occasions where it is not practicable or appropriate to interview all disabled people who meet the essential criteria for the job. For example in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. In these circumstances, the employer could select the candidates who best meet the essential criteria for the job, as they would do for non-disabled applicants.

Diversity and Inclusion Vision

Maximise the potential of people from all backgrounds through a culture of fairness and inclusion to deliver the best service for our communities