BCH - Admin & Research Officer - Firearms & Explosives Licensing

About the role

You will help ensure applications are processed accurately, risks are identified and decisions are supported by clear, evidence-based information. The role involves handling sensitive information, carrying out research and intelligence checks, maintaining accurate records and providing guidance to applicants, colleagues and other stakeholders.

The successful candidate will primarily work out of Chord Park in Godmanchester.

The contract Force and hours for this position is to be confirmed. Please advise on your application what you would be looking for. 

What you will be doing

You will:

  • Process firearms, shotgun and explosives licensing applications, including grants, renewals, variations, revocations, cancellations and related enquiries.
  • Gather and assess information to help determine applicant suitability.
  • Identify and escalate concerns or risks where appropriate.
  • Complete intelligence checks and maintain accurate records on the National Firearms Licensing Management System.
  • Prepare case information and provide clear, objective recommendations to decision-makers.
  • Respond to enquiries from applicants, members of the public and internal teams.
  • Provide guidance on licensing processes, relevant legislation and departmental procedures.
  • Handle confidential and sensitive information appropriately.
  • Support improvements to processes, service delivery and departmental outcomes.
What we are looking for

You will need:

  • Strong IT skills, including experience using Microsoft Office and database systems.
  • Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
  • The ability to assess information and make sound decisions.
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills.
  • A professional, customer-focused approach.
  • The ability to manage competing priorities and work under pressure.
  • Confidence handling confidential and sensitive information.
  • A full driving licence.
Additional information

The role may require travel across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire, as well as occasional national travel for meetings or training. If using a private vehicle for business travel, appropriate business insurance will be required.

The successful applicant will be required to meet the relevant vetting requirements and may be subject to a medical assessment before starting. The role holder will also be expected to complete the required probationary objectives.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to contribute directly to public safety while working within a specialist and varied area of policing. You will join a collaborative department where accuracy, sound judgement and effective service delivery make a genuine difference.

For further information please contact Inspector Darren Gore - Darren.Gore@Cambs.police.uk

Additional Advert Information 

  • Internal Applicants 
    To apply for this role, internal applicants must have successfully completed their probationary period. 
    If you qualify as an internal candidate within the advertising force, you may upload either your CV or the internal role summary form attached to this advert. 
  • Vetting Process 
    Please note that, as part of the vetting process, the BCH Vetting Unit may need to contact your current line manager for a Supervisor Appraisal. This requirement aligns with the 2025 National Guidelines for Vetting (APP 6.5.18). 
    Examples of when this may apply include: 
  • Transferring to another force 
  • Renewing vetting clearance 
  • Moving into a role requiring MV clearance (even if you currently hold MV clearance) 
  • Moving into or working in a role involving close contact with vulnerable individuals 

If any of the above apply to you, please expect your line manager to be contacted when you submit your vetting application. 

  • Redeployment and Redundancy 
    This vacancy is open to employees at risk of redundancy and will remain available to redeployees until a final offer has been agreed and accepted. 
    Redeployees at risk of redundancy will take priority over all other applicants at any stage of the recruitment process. If successful, redeployees will remain on their home force’s terms and conditions. 
  • Role Profile 
    We recommend downloading and saving a copy of the role profile, as it will no longer be accessible once the advert closes. 
  • Commitment to Inclusion 
    As a Disability Confident Leader, we are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to be themselves. We provide workplace adjustments wherever needed so that all colleagues can thrive. 
    If you have a disability and meet the minimum criteria for the role, you will be guaranteed an interview under the Offer an Interview Scheme. 

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