At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in developing policies for biometric technologies and drug driving testing.
- Company: Join a dynamic police forensics team making a real impact on public safety.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in a strategic role with potential for future opportunities.
- Other info: Temporary position for 6 months with strong career development potential.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovative policing practices and legislative changes.
- Qualifications: Must be a substantive C1 grade employee with relevant leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
This opportunity is only open to applicants who are currently 'Priority Movers'. Applications from individuals not currently on the Priority Mover list will be rejected and not considered.
The Forensics team has a sponsorship role with the SPA Forensic service, maintaining constructive and strategic relationships to ensure they meet their statutory duties. The team is supporting the development of SPA Forensic services full business case for the Long Term Sustainable Model for drug driving testing, providing scrutiny and challenge to ensure best value.
In addition, the team maintains a strategic relationship with the Scottish Biometrics Commissioner, a public office holder accountable to the Scottish Parliament. This includes engagement on ensuring that the use of biometric technologies by policing bodies is lawful, ethical and proportionate. The team also has statutory responsibilities this year, including carrying out a review of the Commissioner’s functions and laying a report before the Scottish Parliament by November. It will engage on the Commissioner’s review of his statutory Code of Practice and lay the necessary regulations to bring the revised Code into effect. Connected to this, the UK Government will shortly introduce a Bill to establish a new legal framework for live facial recognition technology and wider biometric oversight. The team must be fully engaged in cross‑government discussions and prepared to advise Ministers at pace.
We are looking to recruit a C1 team leader for a temporary period of six months, who will play a pivotal role in meeting these statutory requirements and parliamentary expectations.
Responsibilities- Retention period review: Working group with Police Scotland, SPA and Scottish Biometrics Commissioner (SBC) on options appraisal for biometric data retention and thereafter provide advice to ministers on whether legislative change is necessary.
- Strategic engagement with UKG on their proposals to legislate this year on the use of biometric technologies by policing bodies, including Live Facial Recognition. Provide advice to Ministers on how we should respond in Scotland.
- Oversee this year's statutory review of the SBC’s functions, ensuring appropriate scoping, project planning and resource are in place to deliver a statutory report to Parliament by November 2026. Potential need to legislate in consequence of the review.
- Oversight of SPA delivery of drug driving and development of their Long Term Sustainable Model.
- Provide strong and effective leadership and cross team collaboration within the division, serving as a strategic link between our units to ensure alignment and prioritisation of workstreams.
- Line management of one B3 and countersigning responsibility for one B2.
This role is a temporary position with an expected commitment of 6 months.
How to ApplyApplications for this position will only be accepted from substantive C1 grade employees. Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words). Vacancies close at 23:59pm on Thursday 30 July. If you have questions about your application please contact kevin.lee@gov.scot. All applicants will be invited to an informal discussion with the hiring manager. There will be no formal testing or assessment. Discussions are expected to be scheduled for w/c TBC.
Police Forensics Policy Team Leader - C1 in Edinburgh employer: Scottish Government
The Scottish Government offers a dynamic and supportive work environment, where you can make a significant impact on customer service and safeguarding across Scotland. With a strong focus on employee development and innovation, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while working alongside a dedicated team committed to excellence in public service. Join us in shaping a high-performing organisation that values collaboration and strives for transformative results.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Police Forensics Policy Team Leader - C1 in Edinburgh
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
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Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
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If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Police Forensics Policy Team Leader - C1 in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Scottish Government.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Scottish Government that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
