SO1/2 Digital Forensics Investigator

Digital Forensics Investigator

Lead intelligence lead investigations for computer, mobile phone, and all other forms of digital data storage devices. To enhance the capabilities of the digital elements of criminal investigations. Lead, Support, coach, and mentor DMIU Investigators and examiners as a subject matter expert, developing their teams working knowledge and experience. In addition supporting the Digital forensics sergeants and Detective Inspector with the ever changing technical landscapes with enhanced up to date knowledge.

Role Accountabilities

Enhanced working knowledge and experience of a wide range of forensics software and tools used to conduct digital investigations.
Enhanced ability to accurately interpret data to support criminal investigations, specialising in a wide range of digital media to include Computers, mobile phones, cloud base applications, the internet and CCTV.
Provide specialist technical support to Investigators and examiners within the DMIU team as a senior subject matter expert, coaching them in best practice to assist with their technical development, training and report writing.
Ensure teams presentations of all digital evidence compliant with best practice, national and force policy.
Ensure Team members Identify priority offenders through detailed investigations, exploring all digital lines of enquiry available, offering advise and support for less experienced team members.
Ensure all evidence is seized and exhibited in line with the departments ISO accreditations and mobile phone reports or stream line forensic reports are compiled to the required standards for criminal proceedings.
Research & develop the ever-changing digital landscape to support digital investigations, to include software installation, testing, scripting, compliance with ISO 17025 & 17020 requirements and, in keeping with ACPO guidelines for investigation of electronic evidence.
Assist in the management of server maintenance including system auditing, backups and archiving of cases in compliance with MOPI guidelines.
Assist in the management of the LPU based Kiosks from a technical support aspect
Enhanced Interview skills to assist with suspects in custody supporting investigations involving digital technology.
Develop and present training material as a subject matter expert, to be given to as awareness & detailed training to a number of colleagues, such as frontline, MIT, SOCU CSI’s along with external partners in a wide range of digital forensics tools & technics
Due to the nature of the work the post holder must be prepared to handle materials that may be offensive and distressing.
This post is subject to an enhanced level of vetting which must be satisfied before appointment.
The post holder must be able to travel anywhere in the Force area.
The post holder may be required, from time to time, to work outside of office hours at weekends or bank holidays.
This role has been designated the powers of ‘Investigating Officer’ by the Chief Constable

In order to practice within the field of forensics, it is imperative that all staff work in compliance with ISO standards and relevant legislation in order to extend and maintain the forces accreditation schedule in accordance with the Forensic Science Regulator. Such work involves, but is not limited to, engagement with the QMS, maintenance of training and competence, involvement with proficiency tests, technical management, validation work, auditing, non-conformance investigations, completion of corrective and preventative tasks, updating the relevant documentation and involvement in UKAS assessment visits.

For the post holders level of responsibility ensure that all; arrangements, activities, equipment, supervision and staff health, welfare and training are complied with as fully detailed in the Health and Safety Policy.

It is the responsibility of all staff to promote equality, diversity and Human Rights in working practices including developing and maintaining positive working relationships, ensuring that colleagues are treated fairly, contributing to developing equality of opportunity in working practices and challenging inappropriate conduct. Staff should treat everyone with fairness and impartiality, whilst recognising differences in needs, perspectives, backgrounds and cultures.

Notwithstanding the details in this job description, the job holder may be required to undertake other duties up to a level consistent with the principal responsibilities of the job.

Experience, Qualifications & Skills

Prior Education and Experience

Educated to level 6 in Forensic Computing, or equivalent with evidence of substantial experience in forensic computing.
An EnCE (EnCase Certified Examiner) qualification or Axiom
Supervisory experience in computer/digital investigations

Skills

Essential

Subject Matter Expert in Digital forensics, with in depth knowledge of computers & Mobile device operating systems, a good working knowledge of 3rd part applications and other digital data storage devices.
Experience in decision-making & communication skills, be able to effectively coach / mentor staff within their team
Experience in managing staff, specifically volunteers
Experience in briefing the senior management team in matters relating to digital evidence using non-technical terminology, enhancing their ability to understand the complexities of digital forensics
Ability to Mentor / Coach Investigators & examiners in relation to the criminal justice system, ensure they understand the importance of legal evidential limitations (Authorised Professional Practices)
Experienced in the investigation of serious/complex crime and presentation of the evidence in Crown Court
Detailed understanding of The Computer Misuse act, Sexual Offences Act and Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) legislation.