Firearms Enquiry Officer (Part Time) | Current and Future Opportunities
Locations: Skipton Police Station covering the Craven area (immediate vacancy), plus future opportunities in Selby and Ryedale
Salary: £27,204 - £32,613 - full time equivalent, with actual salary dependent on agreed part‑time hours (NYP Scale 4/5)
Progression through the pay scale is linked to a career progression plan
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Part‑time role working 4 days per week (maximum 30 hours), Monday–Friday
Closing Date: 9am on Tuesday 10 March
Review the Role Profile here!
The Opportunity
We’re looking for two Firearms Enquiry Officer's (FEO) to join our Firearms Licensing team - a role ideal for someone with experience in structured decision‑making, risk assessment, and working within frameworks designed to protect public safety.
You’ll play a key part in ensuring firearms, shotgun and explosives certificates are granted safely and responsibly. This involves carrying out detailed enquiries, meeting applicants, assessing security arrangements, and making well‑reasoned recommendations that directly support community safety.
Our immediate vacancy is in Skipton, covering the Craven area. We are also creating a holding list for future part‑time opportunities in Selby and Ryedale.
As an FEO, you’ll spend time visiting applicants in their homes, evaluating the suitability of individuals and premises, and engaging professionally with members of the public, partner agencies and police colleagues. The role is varied, dynamic and often requires a calm and confident approach in situations that may be sensitive, complex, or emotionally charged.
If you’re someone who thrives in roles where clear judgement, thorough assessment and strong professional standards are essential, this is an opportunity to use those strengths in a way that has real impact.
To understand more about the national role of Firearms Enquiry Officers, you can read the College of Policing authorised professional practice guidance:
What You’ll Be Doing
- Interview applicants and assess their suitability to hold firearms and explosives certificates
- Conduct home and premises visits, assessing security arrangements for the safe storage of firearms, ammunition and explosives
- Prepare concise, accurate written reports and recommendations to support decision‑making by the Head of Firearms Licensing
- Carry out inspections of registered firearms dealers and shooting clubs
- Provide advice to the public, police officers and staff on relevant legislation
- Identify and manage risk, including dealing with situations where firearms may need to be seized
- Handle sensitive or challenging conversations calmly and professionally
- Work both independently and as part of a small, supportive team
What We’re Looking For
You will need to demonstrate:
- Strong decision‑making skills and professional judgement
- Excellent report‑writing ability
- Confidence in risk assessment and identifying potential safeguarding concerns
- Ability to remain calm and composed in challenging or emotionally charged situations
- Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to deal sensitively but firmly with conflict
- High attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to work independently while remaining a valued team member
- Good IT skills
- Must hold a full UK manual driving licence
Desirable:
- Experience in firearms licensing, policing, or another regulatory or risk‑assessment‑based environment
- Familiarity with the National Firearms Licensing Management System (NFLMS)
- Knowledge of sporting firearms use and safe handling practices
This Role May Not Be for Everyone
Firearms licensing is a critical public safety function. The role involves:
- Managing potentially contentious or distressing situations
- Handling conversations that may relate to health, vulnerability, or risk
- Occasions where firearms or certificates need to be seized
If you are uncomfortable with conflict, challenging conversations or decision‑making where public safety is involved, this may not be the right role for you.
Why Join Us?
Working for the emergency services is both meaningful and impactful. At North Yorkshire Police, we’re committed to helping colleagues reach their full potential in a fair, inclusive, and supportive environment. We value diverse perspectives and actively promote staff wellbeing so everyone can thrive. Please visit our website to learn more about our organisation.
We’re also proud to provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, work-life balance, and professional growth:
- Local Government Pension Scheme - secure and competitive retirement planning
- Salary Sacrifice Car Scheme - access to affordable vehicle leasing options (NHS Fleet Solution)
- Generous Annual Leave - 24 days rising to 30 with length of service, plus bank holidays
- Blue Light Discount - enjoy savings at major retailers and services
- Health Cash Plan
- Access to Trade Union Membership - opportunity to join UNISON
- Inclusion & Diversity Networks - connect with colleagues and contribute to a culture of belonging
- Health & Wellbeing Services - access to resources that support your physical and mental health
- Cycle to Work Scheme - Save money on bikes and accessories
- Civil Service Sports Club (CSSC) Membership - Access to discounted sports & leisure, activities.
To be considered for this role, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- You must have the right to work in the UK, with no restrictions on your employment
- Hold a full UK manual driving licence
- Internal applicants must have successfully completed their probation period
- Meet residency requirements for vetting:
- RV Level Vetting - minimum 3 years UK residency (use this link to find out more)
Need More Information?
For queries about the role, please contact:
Inspector Dave Edwards / Jen Gray, Firearms Enquiry Officer Team Leader – FirearmsLicensing@northyorkshire.police.uk
Your Application
North Yorkshire Police is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or within your role, please declare this within your online application. A member of our team will contact you prior to your interview to ensure appropriate support is in place.
Safer Recruitment
North Yorkshire Police is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Safeguarding is a core part of our recruitment process, and we expect all applicants to share this commitment. All successful candidates will undergo a thorough recruitment process and must obtain satisfactory pre-employment clearances before commencing employment, including satisfactory Vetting or DBS checks, references, and a medical assessment, including absence history. Adherence to our safeguarding policies and procedures is essential.
Ready to Apply?
As part of our selection process, we’ll assess your skills and experience against the requirements of the role. We therefore encourage you to take your time to tailor your application, ensuring your responses align with the job advert and role profile.
Interviews are scheduled to take place: w/c 23 March 2026
We look forward to receiving your application!