The posting
Job Description
Posts: 1 x Permanent (with 34.19% shift allowance) and 2 x Fixed Term Contracts until 31/03/2029 (Mon to Friday shifts only – no shift allowance)
An opportunity has arisen for 3 x Communications Data SPOC’s in CDIU.
The Communications Data Investigator is an accredited Single Point of Contact (SPoC) trained to facilitate the lawful acquisition of communications data from telecommunications/postal operators operating under the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 (IPA). The SPoC proactively engages with investigating officers/staff to raise awareness of data acquisition laws and to assist with the development of effective communications data acquisition strategies.
Much of the day to day role involves the review and progression of applications for communications data via the departmental work flow system. The role also requires the provision of specialist advice and guidance during a range of investigations, both crime in action and life at risk, these include but are not limited to: covert operations, homicide, kidnaps, high risk missing persons, counter terrorism incidents, live arrest phases and exploitation. Full training will be provided which includes a mandatory two-week College of Policing: Communications Data Investigator Single Point of Contact accreditation course.
Key Responsibilities:
- Offer advice and guidance to all officers/staff, including Senior Leaders of all ranks, on the lawful acquisition of communications data and the covert tactics available to meet operational objectives.
- Advise officers/staff on the use of data in evidence.
- Assess and evaluate threat, risk and harm in response to a range of incidents, including both crime in action and immediate threat to life investigations, without recourse to senior members of staff.
- Provide an immediate response for all urgent incidents offering specialist advice, performing an analytical function where appropriate.
- Plan and organise both team and individual workloads for multiple investigations working to standard operating procedures within agreed service level agreements.
- Liaise regularly with the communications industry around data exploitation opportunities and for assistance with the interpretation of complex data.
- Deliver training inputs and presentations to officers and staff at all ranks/grades across the organisation.
- Ensure compliance with appropriate legislation, such as the Investigatory Powers Act, Data Protection laws and Court orders.
- Provide a professional service and maintain integrity when dealing with sensitive issues protecting covert methodology and tactics.
- Protect West Midlands Police from reputational damage and loss of public confidence as a consequence of serious errors.
- Ensure errors are investigated and recorded/reported accordingly to the Investigatory Powers Commissioners office (IPCO) and the West Midlands Senior Responsible Officer (SRO).
- Provide evidence in court regarding the acquisition and disclosure of communications data where required.
- Propose changes in procedures, processes and systems to improve operational efficiency and service delivery.
- Engage in local and regional communications data meetings and share knowledge and learning with peers.
- Proactively develop personal expertise and knowledge taking a keen interest in evolving/emerging technologies, further understanding the effects this has on data acquisition tactics and the capabilities of telecommunications/postal operators.
- Mentor and coach less experienced members of the unit.
- Deputise for the CDIU Supervisors in their absence for administration and technical matters.
- Assist the CDIU SPoC Manager with compiling management reports for annual quality assurance inspections by the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office (IPCO).
- Maintain excellent relationships with key external partners including the communications industry and Home Office departments such as the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office (IPCO).
Essential Skills:
- A good working knowledge of how people communicate utilising both telephony and the internet including social media platforms and over the top applications.
- Proven computer literacy and keyboard skills to include a basic working knowledge of Excel.
- Effective communication skills.
- Evidence of using initiative and being innovative.
- The ability to work in a high-pressure environment and successfully prioritise workloads.
- The ability to solve problems in a logical and systematic manner.
- Experience of risk assessment and decision making in a dynamic environment and a good working knowledge demonstrating the use of the National Decision Model (NDM) and THRIVE+
- An awareness of the law and procedures relevant to the role to include IPA, CPIA, PACE, RIPA, Human Rights Act, Data Protection Act, Terrorism Act.
- A willingness to learn about interpretation and analysis of complex data sets.
Desirable Skills:
- Existing College of Policing Communications Data Investigator – Single Point of Contact accreditation held.
- Specific working knowledge of the Investigatory Powers Act 2016.
- Effective training and presentation skills
- Experience in the intelligence arena and/or investigative skills.
Salary and Hours
Salary: £38,169
- Permanent Post x 1 – role involves working 24/7 shifts over 6 days on 4 days off pattern of 2 x earlies (0700hrs x 1600hrs), 2 x Lates (1200hrs x 2200hrs), 2 x Nights (2130hrs x 0700hrs) which attracts a 20% rota plus 14.19% weekend working shift allowance.
- Fixed Term Contract Posts x 2 – Until 31/03/29 - role involves working core business hours Monday to Friday – 0800hrs x 1600hrs.
Selection Process
- Online Application and Sift - You will complete an online application form, which will be reviewed against the skills, experience and behaviours required for the role. Closing Date: 15/11/2026 23:59pm
- Interview - Candidates who are successful at the initial application stage will be invited to attend an assessment centre and competency-based interview. As part of the assessment centre, candidates will be asked to prepare and deliver a ten-minute presentation on a mobile device of their choice, explaining to the panel what features it has and how these features may assist law enforcement officials in their day-to-day enquiries, utilising their knowledge/research of the Communications Data Investigator role and the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) 2016.
Proposed Interview date(s): TBC
- Pre-Employment Checks - If you are selected as the preferred candidate, you will be required to successfully complete relevant pre-employment checks before receiving a formal offer. For internal candidates, some checks may not be required. Checks may include: Vetting Checks - You must successfully complete the required level of Management vetting and Security clearance before starting the role. This may include providing information relating to your background and financial history as part of the vetting process. Click here for more information. Medical Checks - Appointment to this role is subject to successfully completing medical checks. This may include a drugs test and, where required, a fitness assessment. Reference Checks - You will need to provide details covering at least five years of employment, education or other relevant activity history.
We are committed to supporting candidates throughout the recruitment process and reasonable adjustments are available for those who need them.
About Us
West Midlands Police is the second-largest police force in England, serving more than 2.9 million people across Birmingham, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull and Walsall. Every day, our people work together to keep our communities safe, protect vulnerable people, prevent crime and bring offenders to justice.
We answer more than 2,000 emergency calls every day and provide policing 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Whether responding to emergencies, supporting victims, investigating crime or working behind the scenes, every role plays a vital part in delivering an outstanding service to the public.
We're proud of the progress we've made in reducing crime, improving emergency response times and increasing arrest rates. These achievements are only possible because of the dedication, professionalism and expertise of our officers, staff and volunteers. As we continue to transform the way we police, we're looking for talented people who are committed to making a real difference.
Why Join West Midlands Police?
A career with West Midlands Police is about more than a job, it's an opportunity to have a meaningful impact on the lives of millions of people. Whatever your role, you'll contribute to keeping our communities safe while developing your own skills and career.
When you join us, you'll benefit from:
- Meaningful work that makes a difference every day.
- A diverse range of career opportunities across policing and professional support services.
- High-quality training, development and opportunities to progress.
- A supportive and inclusive working environment where everyone is encouraged to achieve their potential.
- Competitive pay, generous annual leave, excellent pension arrangements and a wide range of employee benefits.
- The opportunity to work alongside dedicated colleagues who share a common purpose.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
We believe that a diverse workforce helps us better understand and serve the communities we protect. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and able to succeed.
As a Disability Confident Leader, the highest level of the Government's Disability Confident scheme, we are committed to removing barriers to employment and supporting disabled applicants and employees throughout their careers. Through our Disability Confident Interview Scheme, applicants who declare a disability and meet the essential criteria for a role will normally be offered an interview, subject to the scheme's terms and any recruitment constraints.
Our Diversity and Inclusion Vision is to maximise the potential of people from all backgrounds through a culture of fairness, respect and inclusion, enabling us to deliver the best possible service to our communities.
Professional Standards
Working in policing is a position of trust. Our officers and staff are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and accountability. Successful applicants will be subject to appropriate vetting and are expected to uphold the ethical standards and responsibilities that come with serving the public.
Recruitment and the Use of AI
We recognise that many candidates use AI tools to support activities such as proofreading and improving the presentation of written applications. This is acceptable, provided the content you submit accurately reflects your own knowledge, skills and experience.
Applications must be your own work. Any evidence of plagiarism, false or misleading information, or the inappropriate use of AI during assessments or selection activities where it is not permitted may result in your application being rejected.
Benefits
We know that supporting our people is essential to delivering the best service to our communities. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of employee benefits, wellbeing support and development opportunities to help you thrive throughout your career.
Visit our Benefits page to find out more about the rewards and support available when you join West Midlands Police.
