At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative automation solutions using Microsoft technologies.
- Company: Join Kent Police's dynamic Automation and AI team.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in digital policing while advancing your tech skills.
- Qualifications: Expertise in Microsoft Power Platform and experience in automation required.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and mentoring within a collaborative team.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location of Role: Home based / North Kent
Advert Closing Date: 20/02/2026
Job Grade/Rank: G
Part/Full Time: Full Time
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Pattern: Mon-Fri
In line with the forceās commitment to minimise the impact of organisational change and develop police staff both laterally and progressively, this opportunity is only open to police staff. Police officers will only become eligible to apply should the vacancy remain unfilled after the selection process and the advert is published to external applicants.
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Technical Lead Developer to join our newly formed Automation and AI team. This is a key role supporting the delivery of our digital transformation strategy, with a focus on building scalable, secure, and user-centred solutions using Microsoft technologies.
Responsibilities
As part of Kent Policeās commitment to innovation and public service, you will play a pivotal role in designing, developing, and delivering robust automation solutions using Power Apps, Power Automate, and related Microsoft 365 technologies. You will lead the technical implementation of our Centre of Excellence (CoE), establish governance frameworks, and ensure the secure and scalable deployment of automation workflows. Working closely with product owners, architects, and delivery partners, you will help shape our automation roadmap and mentor developers to build internal capability.
Weāre looking for someone with deep technical expertise in the Power Platform, a proven track record of at least 3 years of automation, including governance and security, and a collaborative mindset to help us deliver impactful, user-centred solutions that improve efficiency and service delivery.
Key Skills and Experience
In your application, please evidence the following key skills and experience:
- Expert-level knowledge of Microsoft Power Platform (Power Apps, Power Automate, Power BI, Dataverse)
- Strong understanding of automation governance, security, and Centre of Excellence principles
- Experience integrating Power Platform with Microsoft 365 and external data sources
- Familiarity with Azure for deploying and managing automation solutions
- Proficiency in scripting and low-code/no-code development
- Understanding and experience of the full software development lifecycle
- Ability to lead technical delivery and mentor others
- Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
Additional Experience
In addition, please document any further experience in the following areas:
- Experience with intelligent automation platforms beyond Microsoft Power Automate, such as Blue Prism or UiPath
- Experience with agile methodologies (e.g. Scrum)
- Experience with Azure DevOps
- Ability to analyse and model business processes, and translate them into technical requirements and automation workflows
- Proficiency in .NET technologies (C#, ASP, .NET, Entity Framework)
A technical test may be required to be taken as part of the selection procedure. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of digital policing in Kent, delivering solutions that make a real difference to our communities.
Working Arrangements
Kent Police support flexible and hybrid working arrangements. This role is primarily home-based, with occasional travel to Northfleet or other Kent Police sites for collaboration, workshops, or stakeholder engagement. We value work-life balance and offer a supportive environment that enables you to thrive both professionally and personally.
Contact
For any more information on this role, please contact Naomi Darlington via email Naomi.Darlington@kent.police.uk
Application Process
You must complete a line manager form for your application to this role before applying. Please download and complete the line manager form and attach this to your application form before submitting it using the "Manager Endorsement" file upload field at the start of your application. Please note submitted applications to this role will not be considered without a completed line manager form attached.
Your application for this role will be shortlisted on the content you provide within the āreason for applicationā question, within the application form itself. CVs, covering letters or attachments are not included in the shortlist. Within your āreason for applicationā answer, please refer to any experience, skills, and abilities you feel you have that will make you suitable for this role, based on the role criteria stated in the job advert or job description.
Please provide as much detail as possible as insufficient content may mean you do not meet the shortlisting criteria, however please note this question is limited to 9000 characters and this system will count spaces and blank lines as characters.
Depending on your current vetting level and security clearances, you may be required to complete additional vetting information during the recruitment process.
Kent Police and Essex Police welcomes applications regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, sex, or employment status.
Please let us know if you require extra support at any stage of the application process, or for further information regarding this position, please email us at recruitment.business.services@ecis.police.uk stating āApplication Support and Adjustmentsā in the title of your email. Alternatively, you can call us on 01245 452833. Where appropriate we will make adjustments to the selection process, working arrangements and/or the working environment provided it is reasonable in all the circumstances to do so.
If youāre not from the UK, you must be a resident in the UK and have lived here continuously for the last three years. You must also be free from restrictions with indefinite leave to remain. If youāre from the UK you must have lived here continuously for the last three years. This doesnāt apply to those serving abroad in the British Armed Forces.
Lead Developer (Applications Development Technical Lead) (Home based/North Division) employer: Essex Police and Kent Police
Contact Detail:
Essex Police and Kent Police Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice š¤«
We think this is how you could land Lead Developer (Applications Development Technical Lead) (Home based/North Division)
āØTip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Kent Police and their digital transformation strategy. Understanding their goals will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
āØTip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend relevant events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
āØTip Number 3
Prepare for the technical test! Brush up on your skills with Power Platform and automation tools. Practising common scenarios can help you feel more confident and ready to impress during the selection process.
āØTip Number 4
Donāt forget to apply through our website! Make sure you follow the application instructions carefully, especially the line manager form. A well-prepared application can set you apart from the competition.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Developer (Applications Development Technical Lead) (Home based/North Division)
Some tips for your application š«”
Get to Know the Role: Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. Understand what theyāre looking for in a Lead Developer and think about how your skills match up. This will help you tailor your application to show that youāre the perfect fit!
Nail the 'Reason for Application': This is your chance to shine! Use the 'reason for application' section to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Be specific and give examples that relate directly to the key skills mentioned in the job description. Remember, this is what they'll use to shortlist candidates!
Keep it Clear and Concise: While you want to provide enough detail, make sure your writing is clear and to the point. Avoid jargon unless itās relevant, and keep an eye on that character limit. Use bullet points if it helps to break down your experience and skills!
Apply Through Our Website: Donāt forget to submit your application through our website! Itās the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, make sure to attach that all-important line manager form ā without it, your application wonāt be considered!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex Police and Kent Police
āØKnow Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the Microsoft Power Platform, especially Power Apps and Power Automate. Brush up on your knowledge of automation governance and security principles, as these will likely come up during the interview.
āØShowcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss specific projects where you've successfully implemented automation solutions. Highlight your role in these projects, focusing on how you led technical delivery and mentored others, as this aligns with the responsibilities of the Lead Developer position.
āØUnderstand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with Kent Policeās digital transformation strategy. Be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to their goals, particularly in building user-centred solutions that improve efficiency and service delivery.
āØPractice Problem-Solving Scenarios
Since excellent problem-solving skills are crucial for this role, consider preparing for potential technical tests or scenario-based questions. Think through how you would approach common challenges in automation and be ready to articulate your thought process.