Digital Forensic Investigator (Two Posts)
Digital Forensic Investigator (Two Posts)

Digital Forensic Investigator (Two Posts)

Kidlington Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Thames Valley Police

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Investigate serious crimes using digital forensics on mobile devices and computers.
  • Company: Join Thames Valley Police, dedicated to making communities safer through innovative forensic services.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 24 days annual leave, lifestyle discounts, and career development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Be part of a transformative team tackling serious crime and making a real impact in society.
  • Qualifications: A digital forensic degree or relevant experience in digital forensics is desirable.
  • Other info: Full UK driving licence required; role involves unsocial hours and enhanced vetting.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Are you ready to use your skills to make a difference?!

Digital Forensic Services are vital to helping our officers to combat crime, protect the vulnerable, enable safer communities, and make a difference that really matters. Thames Valley Police is making a multi-year investment in our Forensic Investigation Unit and is transforming our wide array of forensic disciplines and in particular digital forensics, to create a forward looking, accredited service which delivers proportionate timely services that support effective crime investigation for TVP and other external organisations.

As part of this transformation, a number of exciting expansion opportunities have arisen to join the Digital Portfolio of Forensic Investigation Unit (FIU).

In this case 2 x Digital Forensic Investigators.

Reporting to a Digital Forensic Unit Technical Supervisor. The Digital Forensic Unit of Thames Valley Police has an exciting opportunity for a number of Digital Forensic Investigators to be based in Kidlington in Oxfordshire (eventually moving to Bicester, Oxfordshire in Spring/Summer of 2026).

Thames Valley Police forensic hub in Bicester to open in 2026 – BBC News

Forensics Centre Construction Celebrated in Bicester – TVP Careers

You will be involved in the most challenging and interesting cases of digital forensics work and will be directly involved in the investigation of serious crime, specifically homicide and child sexual exploitation including indecent images of children cases. Working alongside Major Crime, the Online Child Abuse Investigation Team, Serious Organised Crime and many other high level bespoke departments.

You will undertake forensic examinations of mobile phones, computers and other electronic devices in accordance with the National Police Chief’s Council (NPCC) guidelines and court approved investigation techniques and provide high quality written and oral evidence that can be presented to the Crown Prosecution Service and at court as an expert witness.

A digital Forensic Degree or experience in a Digital Forensic environment or related field is desirable.

You will be asked to complete a 10 minute presentation at interview and also a short practical test. This is a linked grade role and starting salary will depend on qualifications and experience as detailed in the job description.

The successful candidate will have practical experience and knowledge of mobile and computer hardware / software together with a good standard of education, including numeracy and literacy skills. You will be able to work with minimal supervision and administer your own workload. The ability to produce accurate contemporaneous records is essential.

The Successful Candidate Will Have

  • Good communication skills and a “can do attitude”
  • Experience of working in digital forensics / forensic capacity / or have a digital forensic degree or previous experience in law enforcement/investigative organisation/s.
  • Previous experience of computer/mobile phone forensic techniques/software e.g., XWays, Axiom, Cellebrite, XRY, GrayKey etc.
  • Familiar with database structure and configuration for formats such as SQL, SQLite, ESE, plist and XML.
  • Experience of managing priorities against high demands and working unsupervised in order to meet deadlines whilst working under pressure.
  • Collaborative approach to working with others across the forensic portfolio
  • Ability to engage with ISO accreditation requirements and FSR Codes of Practice and Conduct.

Due to the requirement to work flexibly, unsocial hours and personal safety for lone working, public transport may not be available or suitable at these times. For this reason, a full UK driving licence is considered essential.

Along with all other posts in Force Crime, Intelligence and Specialist Operations Departments, this role will require an enhanced level of vetting.

Selection will take the form of a panel interview and knowledge test involving a practical element.

As part of the Thames Valley Police family you will enjoy a fantastic range of benefits including 24 days annual leave per annum, pro-rata for part time (plus Bank Holidays), flexible working conditions, a wide range of lifestyle discounts, career development opportunities and have the option to join a local government pension scheme. To view a full list of our benefits, please click the below link.

To apply for this post please attach a cover letter of no more than one page and a CV of no more than 2 pages. NOTE: CV’s will not be accepted without a cover letter or if the CV is more than 2 pages long.

If you have any queries please contact the Recruitment Team at RecruitmentPoliceStaff@thamesvalley.police.uk quoting reference 22500. We will endeavour to respond to your query as quickly as possible.

The closing date for enquiries and receipt of completed applications is Sunday 27th July 2025.

New state-of-the-art forensics centre planned for Thames Valley – TVP Careers

Find out more about TVP Forensics here.

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Digital Forensic Investigator (Two Posts) employer: Thames Valley Police

Thames Valley Police is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in the community through digital forensics. With a commitment to employee development, flexible working conditions, and a comprehensive benefits package including generous annual leave and a local government pension scheme, you will thrive in a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation. As part of a transformative forensic investigation unit based in Kidlington, soon relocating to a state-of-the-art facility in Bicester, you will engage in challenging cases that contribute to the safety and security of the public.
Thames Valley Police

Contact Detail:

Thames Valley Police Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Digital Forensic Investigator (Two Posts)

Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific forensic tools mentioned in the job description, such as XWays, Axiom, and Cellebrite. Having hands-on experience or knowledge of these tools will give you a significant edge during the interview process.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for the practical test by practising your forensic examination skills on various devices. This will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your capability to handle real-world scenarios effectively.

Tip Number 3

Brush up on your communication skills, as you'll need to present evidence clearly and concisely. Consider doing mock presentations to friends or family to refine your delivery and ensure you can articulate your findings well.

Tip Number 4

Research Thames Valley Police's recent initiatives and developments in digital forensics. Being knowledgeable about their current projects will show your genuine interest in the role and help you stand out during the interview.

We think you need these skills to ace Digital Forensic Investigator (Two Posts)

Digital Forensic Degree or equivalent experience
Knowledge of mobile and computer hardware/software
Experience with forensic examination tools (e.g., XWays, Axiom, Cellebrite, XRY, GrayKey)
Familiarity with database structures (SQL, SQLite, ESE, plist, XML)
Ability to produce accurate contemporaneous records
Strong communication skills
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Experience in managing priorities under pressure
Understanding of ISO accreditation requirements
Familiarity with FSR Codes of Practice and Conduct
Full UK driving licence
Ability to engage collaboratively with others across the forensic portfolio
Presentation skills for interviews and practical tests

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Digital Forensic Investigator. Familiarise yourself with the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description, such as knowledge of forensic techniques and software.

Craft a Tailored Cover Letter: Your cover letter should be no more than one page and directly address how your skills and experiences align with the role. Highlight your relevant experience in digital forensics, your communication skills, and your ability to work under pressure.

Prepare Your CV: Ensure your CV is concise and no longer than two pages. Focus on your educational background, relevant work experience, and any specific forensic tools or techniques you are familiar with. Use bullet points for clarity and impact.

Follow Application Guidelines: Make sure to attach both your cover letter and CV when submitting your application. Double-check that your CV is not more than two pages long and that it is accompanied by the required cover letter, as applications without these will not be accepted.

How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Valley Police

Prepare Your Presentation

Since you'll need to deliver a 10-minute presentation during the interview, make sure to choose a relevant topic that showcases your knowledge in digital forensics. Practice your delivery to ensure you can communicate clearly and confidently.

Showcase Your Technical Skills

Be ready to discuss your experience with forensic software and techniques such as XWays, Axiom, or Cellebrite. Highlight any practical experience you have with mobile and computer hardware, as this will be crucial for the role.

Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities

During the practical test, focus on demonstrating your analytical skills and ability to work under pressure. Think aloud as you solve problems to show your thought process and decision-making skills.

Engage with the Interview Panel

Remember that the interview is not just about answering questions; it's also about engaging with the panel. Ask insightful questions about the role and the team, showing your enthusiasm and interest in contributing to Thames Valley Police's mission.

Digital Forensic Investigator (Two Posts)
Thames Valley Police
Location: Kidlington
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