Communication Data Investigator SPoC

This is an exciting opportunity to work as a Communication Data Investigator (SPoC) as part of the North Wales Police and Cheshire Constabulary Collaboration, servicing a wide-range of criminal investigations and dynamic incidents across both Forces by acquiring and exploiting Communications Data.

The department receives and processes all applications under Part 3 of the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) 2016 in relation to North Wales & Cheshire Police.  You will be involved in the quality assurance and gatekeeping of communications data applications prior to their submission to the Investigatory Powers Commissioners Office (IPCO). You will receive results and provide specialist advice and guidance to individuals, teams and Units across both Forces to ensure they understand and can utilise Communications Data effectively.

You will be working in a busy team in a challenging but rewarding role where you will play an important part in protecting and safeguarding individuals, including providing vital assistance in urgent life at risk scenarios.

The Unit has adopted a 24/7 shift pattern to manage the demand and deliver an enhanced service. The current working pattern for this role will be days, Monday to Friday 37 hours per week.

The position is designated as Hybrid which means working from home is permitted. Regular attendance at Offices in North Wales & Cheshire will be required for training requirements as well as operational purposes so it is anticipated that staff will be resident within a reasonable distance of North Wales and/or Cheshire estate and be willing and able to travel.

This Days Post will be based in North Wales predominantly.

What does the Communications Data Investigator role entail?  

• NPCC Designated Single Point of Contact with responsibility for obtaining and analysing communications data from Communications Service Providers, Internet Companies in accordance with the Investigatory Powers Act Codes of Practice.
• Utilising Communications Data in response to ‘Life and Death’ and other dynamic high risk scenarios, ensuring compliance with Investigatory Powers Act Codes of Practice.
• Provide a tightly focused application procedure that concentrates on quality and not volume that maintains an element of detachment in the authorisation process. The SPOC is expected to act as a guardian by way of quality and control in protecting Chief Officers against litigation for unnecessary or disproportionate intrusion into personal privacy. Therefore proven decision making abilities are essential in this role.
• Ability to brief and advise Senior Officers in respect of urgent applications.
• Facilitate the obtaining of orders under various legislation to progress the investigation of serious crime.
• Maintain confidential liaison with Communications Service Providers, Internet Companies and Mail Companies and Businesses within the regulated sector to effectively progress investigations.
• Compilation of witness statements and analytical products for presentation to the courts and attend court to give evidence when required.
• Provide training and comprehensive advice to practitioners with regard to accessing communications data. Develop and organise training packages for users to keep abreast of legislation and changes to legislation.
• Manage and maintain the budget mechanism and where necessary negotiate with service providers in respect of costs etc.
• Maintain performance indicators and keep records for inspection and scrutiny as required by the Interception Commissioner.

What will I need to be considered for the role of Communication Data Investigator SPoC? 

For this role it is important you have all the below criteria: 

1. This is an essential post providing specialist advice and guidance gained through HND/Degree in a relevant subject or equivalent qualification and/or proven relevant experience and willingness to obtain Accredited Officer Status/Qualifications.
2. A comprehensive understanding of the Investigatory Powers Act, Human Rights Act 1998 and the Data Protection Act in order to give advice and guidance and to effectively scrutinise communication data applications.
3. Have knowledge of the Criminal Procedures Investigations Act 1996, Police Act 1997.
4. Working knowledge of North Wales Police databases and Microsoft applications. Ability to adapt to and use new technology as required.
5. The SPOC is responsible for decision making in ‘Life in Immediate Risk’ situations. This requires a high level of sound judgement in pressurised circumstances. A proven ability to assimilate and disseminate information with speed and more importantly accuracy.
6. The SPOC is privy to highly sensitive information. All applications must be dealt with in the strictest of confidence. Applicants for the role of a SPOC must be prepared to undertake suitable and necessary vetting procedures.

The post holder will be required to possess or attain accreditation to act as a SPoC. Due to demand and shortages within the Unit preference is for SPoCs who have already attained accreditation.

Please familiarise yourself with the Post Profile and the Recruitment Guide before you apply as this has information to help you with your application.  

 

 

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