At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate serious crimes and gather intelligence to bring criminals to justice.
- Company: Join the National Crime Agency, the UK's lead agency against organised crime.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public safety while tackling complex criminal threats.
- Qualifications: Experience in criminal investigations and a valid PIP1 or PIP2 accreditation required.
The predicted salary is between 42270 - 42270 £ per year.
£42,270 (SPOT Rate, with progressive pay increases) plus London Weighting of £4,218 or South-East Allowance of £3,375 where applicable. 45 roles available across the UK, including Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, London, Liverpool, Nottingham, Sunderland and more.
About the role
The National Crime Agency is the UK's lead agency against serious and organised crime. Our Investigations Directorate tackles the most dangerous and complex criminal threats facing the UK — from organised immigration crime and illicit finance to drugs, firearms, child sexual abuse and international corruption. As an Experienced Investigator, you will collect and develop intelligence and evidence, contribute to case file preparation, and help bring the UK's most harmful criminals to justice. You will work alongside colleagues across the NCA and partner agencies in a varied, fast‑paced environment — making decisions that have a real impact on public safety. Every day will be different. These are challenging, rewarding roles that require flexibility, resilience and a genuine commitment to protecting the public.
What we're looking for
- Experience and knowledge of criminal investigation techniques
- Knowledge of interviewing witnesses and suspects, including custody procedures
- Experience of seizure of exhibits, continuity of evidence and CPIA disclosure obligations
- Experience completing case files and liaising with prosecuting agencies
- A current/active PIP1 or PIP2 accreditation (or recognised equivalent), valid within the last 3 years
- A full DVLA driving licence
You will also be required to pass a Public and Personal Safety Training (PPST) course within your first six months in post.
What you'll get:
- Civil Service pension with a 28.97% employer contribution
- 26 days' annual leave rising to 31 after 5 years, plus 8 bank holidays
- Flexible working options including flexi‑time and compressed hours
- Interest‑free loans, cycle to work, gym discounts and more
- Key Worker housing status and family‑friendly policies
- Learning and development opportunities
The NCA is committed to diversity and inclusion. This role is open to eligible UK and Commonwealth nationals and certain other groups — see the full listing for nationality requirements. Security clearance to SC level is required prior to appointment.
Experienced Investigator employer: National Crime Agency
Contact Detail:
National Crime Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Experienced Investigator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former NCA employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the application process. Personal connections can give you insights that you won't find in the job description.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your criminal investigation techniques. Be ready to discuss specific cases you've worked on and how you handled challenges. We want to see your problem-solving skills in action!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for public safety! During interviews, share why you’re committed to tackling serious and organised crime. Your genuine interest can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the latest roles and updates there, so keep checking back!
We think you need these skills to ace Experienced Investigator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and knowledge of criminal investigation techniques. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your points are easy to understand. This will help us see your qualifications without getting lost in the details.
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for tackling serious and organised crime shine through in your application. We’re looking for candidates who are genuinely committed to public safety, so share why this role excites you and how you can contribute to our mission.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Crime Agency
✨Know Your Criminal Investigation Techniques
Brush up on your knowledge of criminal investigation techniques before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific methods you've used in past cases, as well as how you approach collecting and developing intelligence. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience.
✨Demonstrate Your Interviewing Skills
Since the role involves interviewing witnesses and suspects, prepare to share examples of your interviewing experiences. Think about the challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will highlight your ability to handle sensitive situations and your understanding of custody procedures.
✨Showcase Your Case File Experience
Be ready to talk about your experience with case file preparation and liaising with prosecuting agencies. Bring specific examples of cases you've worked on, focusing on your role in ensuring evidence continuity and compliance with CPIA disclosure obligations. This will demonstrate your attention to detail and commitment to the legal process.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility and Resilience
The NCA values flexibility and resilience, so think of instances where you've had to adapt quickly to changing circumstances or overcome obstacles. Share stories that illustrate your problem-solving skills and your dedication to public safety, as this aligns perfectly with the agency's mission.