Firearms Examiner
Investigative Support
FIB
Grade E - £33,603 - £39,276
Permanent
Full Time - 36.5 hours per week
Please note staff currently in the Internal re-deployment pool will be considered in the first instance, and the role may be withdrawn without notice
Forensic Firearms Examiner
Are you an experienced forensic professional with specialist knowledge of firearms, ammunition and ballistics? Do you have the expertise to provide authoritative technical advice, lead accredited forensic processes and present complex evidence in court?
We are seeking a highly skilled Forensic Firearms Examiner and Technical Lead to maximise the effectiveness of forensic evidence through the examination, classification and interpretation of firearms, ammunition and ballistic material. This is a unique opportunity to play a critical role in supporting major criminal investigations across Merseyside and the wider North West Region while leading key areas of forensic quality assurance and accreditation.
The Role
As a subject matter expert, you will examine and classify firearms and ammunition, assess the kinetic energy and functionality of air weapons, and provide expert forensic interpretation to support investigations and prosecutions. You will work closely with investigators, prosecutors and partner agencies, ensuring every forensic opportunity is identified and maximised.
You will attend crime scenes where required, provide specialist advice throughout investigations, and support the prosecution process through the preparation of expert reports, witness statements and court testimony. In addition, you will act as Technical Lead for kinetic energy assessment, validation activities and accreditation requirements, ensuring compliance with national quality standards and regulatory frameworks.
Key Responsibilities
- Examine firearms, ammunition and ballistic material to determine legal classification, functionality and evidential value.
- Provide specialist forensic support and advice for firearms investigations, from initial strategy through to prosecution.
- Attend scenes and conduct forensic firearm examinations and triage activities where appropriate.
- Maintain the continuity, integrity and audit trail of exhibits and forensic evidence.
- Coordinate submissions to the National Ballistics Intelligence Service (NaBIS) and maintain accurate records across relevant systems.
- Prepare expert witness reports and provide evidence in court, pre-trial conferences and other judicial proceedings.
- Lead and maintain UKAS accreditation activities, including validation, technical procedure reviews, proficiency testing and non-conformance investigations.
- Supervise, train and mentor staff, supporting competency development and professional growth.
- Conduct peer reviews, audits and quality assurance activities to ensure the validity and reliability of forensic results.
- Drive innovation and continuous improvement to enhance forensic capability and operational effectiveness.
- Ensure compliance with Health and Safety legislation, information management standards and forensic regulatory requirements.
About You
You will be a highly motivated forensic professional with extensive experience in firearms examination and the ability to operate independently in a complex and demanding environment.
You will possess:
- A degree in a scientific discipline, equivalent Level 6 qualification, and/or substantial relevant professional experience.
- Extensive knowledge of firearms, ammunition, ballistics and forensic examination processes.
- Experience working within an accredited quality management environment, such as UKAS, ISO 17020 or ISO 17025.
- Strong understanding of the Firearms Act and associated legislation, together with criminal investigation and evidential procedures.
- Experience producing high-quality technical reports and presenting expert evidence within the criminal justice system.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-specialist audiences.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- The capability to manage competing priorities whilst maintaining exceptional attention to detail and quality standards.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective working relationships across a wide range of stakeholders.
- Strong IT skills and experience using digital forensic or evidential recording systems.
Training and Professional Development
Successful candidates who have not already completed the relevant qualifications will be required to undertake specialist training in:
- Advanced Air Weapon Examination and Chronograph
- Advanced Ammunition Examination
- Advanced Shotgun Examination
- Small Arms Inspection and Maintenance
- Expert Witness Training
You will also be expected to maintain continuous professional development, keeping abreast of legislative changes, emerging technologies, forensic advancements and accreditation requirements.
Application Guidance
- Approval from your Chief Superintendent/Head of Department is required before applying.
- You must meet the minimum skills and qualification criteria at the time of application. Certificates must be provided; expected grades cannot be accepted.
- Use the attached JDQ and CVF when preparing your 1,000-word supporting evidence.
Click here the full JDQ
Click here for the CVF
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays pro rata increasing to 30 days plus 8 bank holidays after 5 years full service.
- Local Government Pension Scheme with contributions from 5.5% to 11.5% depending on your salary.
- Access to on-site gyms – HQ and OCC
- Option to become a member of the onsite unions.
- Discounts from various retailers via the Blue Light Scheme
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Taskers Salary sacrifice car scheme
A Note on Using Artificial Intelligence
AI tools may support idea‑generation, structure, or proofreading, but your application must reflect your own experience, skills, and voice. Do not copy and paste AI‑generated content.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equality & Inclusion
We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We particularly welcome applications from women and Black and ethnic minority candidates.
Our Outreach Team provides guidance and support for candidates from under‑represented groups. If you require reasonable adjustments, please let us know so we can support you.
To learn more about available support, contact: Outreach@merseyside.police.uk
