At a Glance
- Tasks: Support project delivery and research for Criminal Justice initiatives.
- Company: West Yorkshire Police, dedicated to community safety and improvement.
- Benefits: Generous leave, flexible working, pension scheme, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with a clear sense of purpose.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in policing while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational, research, and data analysis skills required.
The predicted salary is between 27204 - 29859 £ per year.
West Yorkshire Police are seeking a highly organised and motivated Project Support Officer to provide specialist research, project and administrative support to Senior Managers and staff within the Criminal Justice function. You will contribute to meaningful improvements across Criminal justice services by supporting the planning, coordination, and implementation of change initiatives. You will be required to undertake research, data analysis and benchmarking, using internal and external sources to inform decision‑making and programme delivery. Support or manage project activities such as database design, data analysis and preparatory research.
Role & Responsibilities
- You will play a key role in supporting the delivery of Force‑wide projects and local change management programmes.
- You will require comprehensive skills in research, while providing project and programme management support to the department covering a wide range of diverse projects and responsibilities across the Force.
- To assist with the support and delivery of a variety of projects and research‑based activities, including the use of relevant software and computerised databases.
Key Duties Include:
- To actively participate in supporting the design, development and implementation of Force‑wide Projects, which will also require the provision of programme / project management support.
- To provide comprehensive research data to the Senior Managers and staff within Criminal Justice, and to prepare and compile documentation such as Project Briefs, Project Plans, Business Cases, etc.
- To source, collate and analyse internal / external benchmarking, research data and management information from a variety of sources to support the progress and delivery of Force‑wide corporate change programmes and local change management projects.
- To support, and where appropriate manage, general project activities including the design, development and management of information databases, survey input / analysis and preparatory research for the projects.
- To maintain, monitor and update relevant project support software systems.
You will need to be:
- Highly organised with strong project support and administrative skills.
- Experienced in research, data analysis and report writing.
- Confident working across multiple projects with competing priorities.
Benefits/What We Offer
- Generous annual leave allowance – 29 days annual leave, rising to 34 days after five years of service (plus bank holidays).
- Flexible working options, including Hybrid agile working arrangements, once training is completed.
- Membership of the West Yorkshire Pension Fund, a secure Defined Benefit CARE (Career Average Revalued Earnings) pension scheme.
- Membership options for the Police Treatment Centre and The Police Children’s Charity (eligibility‑dependent).
- Access to savings, discounts and cashback rewards through staff schemes, including eligibility to purchase a Blue Light Card.
- Option to sign up to our Cycle to Work scheme (eligibility‑dependent).
- Access to a wide range of internal wellbeing services and support programmes.
- Opportunities for career development and training.
- Supportive HR policies, including maternity, paternity and other family‑friendly provisions.
- A meaningful career with a clear sense of purpose supporting policing services that protect communities.
- Opportunities to join staff networks, wellbeing groups and sports clubs.
The successful candidate will be subject to personal and financial vetting checks prior to appointment. This vacancy will close on 22nd June 2026 at 23:55 hours. West Yorkshire Police is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all minority groups and individuals who identify with one or more of the protected characteristics as defined by the Equality Act 2010.
YP7733-Criminal Justice - Project Support Officer **External** in Wakefield employer: West Yorkshire Police
West Yorkshire Police is an excellent employer, offering a meaningful career as a Project Support Officer in Wakefield, where you can contribute to vital improvements in criminal justice services. With generous annual leave, flexible working options, and a strong focus on employee wellbeing and development, you will find a supportive work culture that values diversity and encourages professional growth. Join us to make a real difference in your community while enjoying a range of benefits and opportunities for advancement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land YP7733-Criminal Justice - Project Support Officer **External** in Wakefield
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like West Yorkshire Police, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like West Yorkshire Police and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace YP7733-Criminal Justice - Project Support Officer **External** in Wakefield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for West Yorkshire Police and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Yorkshire Police
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with West Yorkshire Police, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for West Yorkshire Police.
