Job Advert
Drugs Identification Officer
Regional Scientific Support Services
Calder Park, Wakefield
1 permanent full-time position
This key position sits within Regional Scientific Support Services, providing specialist knowledge and support in the identification, assessment and classification of controlled substances for the Yorkshire and Humber region. We are looking for someone who can work confidently both independently and as part of a busy team, managing sensitive and varied workloads with accuracy, integrity, and professionalism.
As a vital member of our operational support function, you will assist officers and investigators by examining suspected drugs, interpreting results, advising on evidential requirements, and ensuring the correct handling, categorisation and submission of substances. You will work closely with investigative teams, forensics, partner agencies and operational officers to support criminal investigations and ensure compliance with legislation and national guidance.
Key duties include:
- Conducting examinations and identification of suspected controlled substances, including classification and recording
- Providing clear, accurate advice to officers and investigators on drug types, weights, evidential requirements and appropriate handling
- Maintaining high standards of continuity and evidential integrity in accordance with force procedures and legislation
- Supporting investigations by preparing written reports and statements as required for prosecution files
- Liaising with laboratories, forensic providers and partner agencies to facilitate the analysis and submission of evidence
- Maintaining accurate records, databases and documentation relating to seized substances.
- Ensuring all processes comply with the Misuse of Drugs Act, relevant legislation and national guidance.
- Supporting operational officers during drug related operations, warrants and enquiries where specialist identification is required.
- Participating in training, briefings and awareness sessions to support wider knowledge across the organisation.
To succeed in this role, you will be expected to:
- Demonstrate excellent attention to detail and the ability to work with precision
- Communicate clearly and confidently with officers, investigators and forensic partners, both verbally and in writing
- Work effectively under pressure, often handling several cases simultaneously
- Understand and apply relevant legislation, including the Misuse of Drugs Act and evidential requirements
- Manage sensitive information appropriately and maintain high professional and ethical standards
- Work flexibly, including occasional out of hours support when operationally required
West Yorkshire Police staff can access a wide range of benefits designed to support work–life balance, wellbeing, development and financial security. These include:
- Generous annual leave allowance - 29 days annual leave, rising to 34 days after five years of service (plus bank holidays)
- Flexible working options, including agile working arrangements to help you manage your professional and personal commitments
- 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
For more information about what we offer, visit: Employee Benefits
Closing date for applications: 23:55 hours on 7th June 2026
The post is suitable for job share.
For roles which are advertised as Career Progression Schemes, individuals will be appointed to the bottom scale point of the appropriate grade within the scheme, based on the role entry requirements. Full progression through the scheme may be subject to attaining a specific qualification or successfully passing an assessment or review.
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.
Applicants should be aware that it is not always possible to carry out adequate vetting checks on persons who have not been resident within the UK for the last five years. Therefore, where this applies, applicants may be refused because it was not possible to vet them to the appropriate standard.