An experienced Senior Digital Forensic Specialist is required to support and deputise for the Digital Forensic Manager within the BCHE Digital Forensics collaboration. This senior technical role is critical to ensuring that all digital forensic methods used across the collaboration are validated, verified, and maintained in accordance with relevant ISO accreditation requirements and the Forensic Science Regulator’s Code of Practice. The post holder will play a key role in maintaining the integrity, reliability, and ongoing development of accredited digital forensic services.
Working closely with the Digital Forensic Manager, Quality Team, Digital Forensics Unit and Digital Media Investigation Supervisors, the role will involve the development of validation plans, the organisation and management of validation materials and datasets, and the completion of validation and implementation reports. The post holder will support the creation, review, and implementation of technical documentation, including Standard Operating Procedures, Technical Guidelines, training and competency materials, and validation documentation, ensuring that all processes remain fit for purpose and compliant with accreditation requirements.
The role will require regular liaison with ICT, ISAU, and external service providers in relation to system updates, technical issues, data storage solutions, information security, and digital forensic equipment. This will include the resolution of lower‑level technical and non‑technical issues and providing oversight of system networking and data security arrangements. The post holder will remain operationally competent across all in‑scope digital forensic methods by completing ongoing training and a representative cross‑section of digital casework, as directed by the Digital Forensic Manager.
Acting in support of the DFM, the Senior Digital Forensic Specialist will provide visibility and assurance to stakeholders across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, ERSOU, and external digital forensic partners. This includes reporting on current compliance positions and future development activity, as well as deputising for the DFM at local, regional, and national meetings. The role will also involve keeping abreast of technical developments by researching new and replacement digital forensic equipment in line with 7‑Force procurement guidance, producing written recommendations to support informed decision‑making and future capability planning.
Applicants must hold a degree or equivalent qualification in a forensic science discipline, or have relevant experience working in digital forensics or a comparable discipline requiring a high level of analytical and statistical competence. Candidates must demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to produce clear, concise, and auditable management system and compliance reports. Strong interpersonal skills are essential, with the ability to work effectively with people at all levels and across varying degrees of technical understanding.
The successful candidate will evidence a very high level of computer literacy, particularly in the use of Microsoft Office applications, statistical monitoring tools, and electronic database or workflow management systems. They must be able to work in an environment that involves exposure to unpleasant, sensitive, or distressing material, and have a strong working understanding of ISO accreditation standards, the FSR Code of Practice, and experience supporting UKAS initial assessments and surveillance programmes. The role requires a high degree of self‑motivation, the ability to work independently without direct supervision, and the initiative to manage demanding workloads and competing deadlines effectively.
This description outlines the main responsibilities of the post and is not intended to be exhaustive. Additional duties may be agreed and reviewed through the annual performance review process.
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.
