Local Crime Investigator October 2026 in Melksham
Wiltshire Police Melksham About the role
Are you naturally curious? Do you enjoy solving problems, piecing together information and helping people? We are recruiting for our next cohort of Local Crime Investigators (LCIs), with training commencing in October 2026. This is a unique opportunity to develop a rewarding career where your work directly impacts victims, communities and the wider criminal justice system.
At Wiltshire Police, we are dedicated to making our community a safer place for everyone. Our team is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and service. We believe in creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every member can thrive and make a meaningful impact. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance, Wiltshire Police offers a range of opportunities to grow and develop. Join us and be part of a team that values courage, compassion, and dedication to public service. Help us to keep Wiltshire safe.
We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer, and we’re committed to building an inclusive, diverse community that celebrates and welcomes everyone. If there are any adjustments we could make to the recruitment and selection process to support you, please let us know.
We are looking for people who share our values of impartiality, integrity, public service and transparency, and who demonstrate the highest standards of professionalism and behaviour. As a Local Crime Investigator, you will play a key role in bringing offenders to justice and supporting victims through the criminal justice process. You will be part of a team providing a service investigating volume crime while working alongside Constables and others within the investigation and evidence gathering chain. You will work closely with the Community Policing and Neighbourhood teams, Crime Investigation Teams and Criminal Investigations Department.
Whether you're interviewing a suspect in custody, attending a warrant, reviewing CCTV footage or gathering evidence for a prosecution, you'll play a key role in the investigation. Being an LCI offers a rewarding and varied career, providing the opportunity to see the impact of your work through successful investigations, court proceedings and bringing offenders to justice.
Training
Successful applicants will take part in a comprehensive 13-week classroom-based training programme at Gablecross Station, Swindon, starting on 26 October 2026. Designed for individuals joining from a range of backgrounds, the programme will equip you with the knowledge, practical skills and confidence needed to begin your career as a Local Crime Investigator. You will learn about criminal investigations, interviewing techniques, evidence gathering, case file preparation and the criminal justice process, supported by experienced trainers and colleagues throughout your learning journey.
Following successful completion of the training programme, you will continue to develop your skills in the workplace while working towards PIP Level 1 Investigator Accreditation, providing a strong foundation for a rewarding and long-term investigative career with Wiltshire Police.
What you will be doing
- Question suspects, requiring an enquiring mind to ask questions and get to the truth.
- Interview victims and witnesses, showing strong empathy, professionalism and first-class customer service.
- Examine CCTV and review statements to piece together what happened, requiring patience and thoroughness.
- Handle evidence and prepare reports with a meticulous and transparent mindset.
- Deal with any enquiry allocated to the post holder in an accurate and timely manner to ensure it is properly submitted for review or to the Crown Prosecution Service when appropriate.
- Present evidence as required at Crown Court, Magistrate Court or other courts.
- Liaise with other forces and outside agencies in relation to the gathering and preparation of evidence.
About you and your experience
- Have an enquiring mindset to be able to ask the right questions.
- Take a methodical approach to your work.
- Ability to work under pressure and to very tight deadlines usually set by the court.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills – contacts will include CPS, solicitors, doctors, judges, forensic scientists, local hospitals, witnesses, armed forces, DVLA etc.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Flexible and creative approach to problem solving.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Confidence to give evidence at court when required.
- Remain calm and confident in potential conflict situations.
Desired but not essential skills
- Previous experience of the judicial systems (work within a police, solicitors or criminal courts environment).
- Experience investigating matters and carrying out interviews.
- Competent in the use of Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel.
- Willingness to attend and complete Institute of Legal Executives Course if required.
- Interviewing skills – ability to conduct an interview to the point of reporting a person for an offence.
Working arrangements
Based at either our Swindon or Melksham locations. Shift pattern covering days, evenings and weekends. 14% shift allowance in addition to salary. The LCI role provides an excellent pathway into a long-term investigative career within Wiltshire Police.
Development opportunities
- Local Crime Investigator Supervisor
- Criminal Investigation Department (CID)
- Serious and Organised Crime Unit (SOCU)
- Public Protection Department
- Complex Fraud and other specialist investigative teams
What we offer
Excellent career development opportunities, 25 days annual leave plus...
Your tasks
Investigate local crimes, interview suspects and victims, and gather evidence.
Your profile
Curiosity, strong communication skills, and a methodical approach are essential.
What's also included
25 days annual leave, shift allowance, and excellent career development opportunities.
Tech stack & ways of working
Local Crime Investigator October 2026 in Melksham employer: Wiltshire Police
At Wiltshire Police, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing of our staff. Located in the heart of Devizes, our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and inclusivity, offering numerous opportunities for professional growth and development in mental health support. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a stable work-life balance with fixed hours from Monday to Friday.
Your perspectives
Make a real difference in your community and support victims through the justice process.
StudySmarter Expert Advice
Connect with Your Local Council
Don’t underestimate the power of local councils for traineeships in the government and public sector. Pop down to your local council office and ask about any upcoming trainee programmes—they usually have insights on what's available in your area!
Join Public Sector Networking Events
Get involved with networking events that focus on the public sector. These gatherings are golden opportunities to meet potential employers and current trainees who can shed light on hidden opportunities and the application process. Keep an eye on Eventbrite or local community boards!
Utilise University Career Services
If you’re at university, make sure to use your career services! They often have direct connections with government agencies and can help you find trainee roles specifically aimed at students. Plus, they host workshops that can prepare you for the application process.
Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you see a role at Wiltshire Police that interests you, don’t just save it for later—apply directly through our website. Clearly highlighting your enthusiasm for public service in your application can give you an edge. We’re here rooting for you!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Enthusiasm for Public Service
When applying for a role in the government-public-sector like Local Crime Investigator October 2026, it's crucial to express your passion for public service. Make sure your cover letter highlights why you want to contribute to the community and any relevant experiences that show your commitment to making a difference.
Tailor Your CV for the Public Sector
Your CV should reflect a genuine understanding of the public sector's values and skills. Emphasise any volunteer work, internships, or relevant coursework that demonstrates your ability to navigate policies, regulations, or community engagement. This shows that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're dedicated to this specific field.
Highlight Your Skills in Research and Analysis
In the government-public-sector, research and analytical skills are key. So, include examples in your application that show you can gather, evaluate, and interpret data. This could be a project from university, an internship task, or even relevant coursework; just make it crystal clear that you’ve got what it takes to make informed decisions.
Be Clear About Your Learning Goals
As a trainee, it’s important to show that you're eager to learn and grow. In your cover letter, mention specific skills or knowledge you hope to gain through the Local Crime Investigator October 2026 position at Wiltshire Police. This demonstrates your long-term commitment and desire to develop in the public sector.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wiltshire Police
Know the Public Sector Landscape
Familiarise yourself with key government policies and how they impact public services. Since you’re aiming for a trainee role, being able to discuss recent initiatives or reforms shows you’re engaged and aware of the sector’s challenges and opportunities.
Highlight Your Drive to Serve
In public sector interviews like this one, they’re really interested in your motivation. Make sure you can articulate why you want to serve the community and how your values align with the mission of Wiltshire Police. They’ll be looking for that passion!
Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
You’ll likely face scenario questions about dealing with citizens or managing projects. Think through examples where you demonstrated teamwork, problem-solving, or resilience in a community project or voluntary role. Use the STAR technique to structure your answers.
Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn
As a trainee, your ability and eagerness to learn are crucial. Be ready to discuss how you've embraced new experiences in the past, whether through studies or work placements. Illustrate your adaptability and readiness for mentorship in the role at Wiltshire Police.
Locations
- Melksham
