Use digital evidence to support investigations, safeguard victims and help bring offenders to justice
Are you naturally curious, technically minded and driven by solving complex problems?
Do you want to use your digital skills to support real investigations and make a meaningful difference within your community?
South West Forensics are looking for innovative and motivated individuals to join our team as Data Forensic Investigators.
This is an exciting opportunity to work within a specialist digital forensic environment, supporting criminal investigations through the recovery, analysis and interpretation of digital evidence.
The Role
As a Data Forensic Investigator, you will work within a fast-paced and highly specialised team responsible for examining computers, mobile devices and digital media to identify evidence that supports criminal investigations.
Your work will help uncover vital evidence, develop investigative opportunities and support officers in bringing offenders to justice.
No two cases are the same. You may support investigations involving serious violence, safeguarding, cybercrime, organised crime or major incidents, using forensic tools and technical expertise to recover and interpret digital data.
This is a role where technology, investigations and problem-solving come together to make a real operational impact.
What You’ll Be Doing
As a Data Forensic Investigator, your responsibilities will include:
* Managing technical and digital investigations
* Conducting forensic examinations of computers, phones and digital devices
* Recovering and analysing digital evidence to support criminal investigations
* Supporting search warrants and onsite investigations
* Providing specialist technical advice to officers and investigators
* Assisting with major investigations involving digital evidence
* Supporting the maintenance and development of forensic systems and infrastructure
* Building and maintaining specialist technical knowledge relating to digital investigations
* Delivering guidance and training to colleagues across the force
* Interviewing suspects, witnesses and offenders regarding technical evidence where required
Your work will directly support operational policing, investigations and safeguarding outcomes across the South West.
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for individuals who combine technical curiosity with strong investigative thinking and resilience.
You should have:
* A degree in Computer Science or relevant practical experience in digital investigations
* Experience or knowledge relating to digital evidence gathering and computer investigations
* Strong knowledge of operating systems including Microsoft, Linux, Android and iOS
* Understanding of relevant legislation including:
o Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA)
o Computer Misuse Act
o Criminal Justice Act
o Data Protection legislation
* Knowledge of forensic data recovery methods and digital forensic software
* Understanding of computer, mobile and network technologies
* Strong analytical and investigative skills
* Effective communication and presentation skills
You must also be comfortable working with graphic, distressing and traumatic material as part of criminal investigations.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to develop specialist expertise within one of the fastest evolving areas of modern policing.
We offer:
* Meaningful work supporting real investigations and victims
* Opportunities to work on complex and high-profile cases
* Ongoing professional development and technical learning
* A collaborative and supportive team environment
* Opportunities to develop accredited specialist skills
* The chance to work at the forefront of digital forensic investigations
You will be joining a team where innovation, technical expertise and operational impact are highly valued.
Role Details
* Full-time permanent role
* 37 hours per week
* Based at Kenneth Steele House, Bristol
* Salary: £41,487 – £44,700
Applicants must:
* Be able to provide a five-year checkable UK history
* Hold a full UK driving licence or have suitable transport arrangements for operational travel requirements
Assessments and interviews are expected to take place during the week commencing 15 June 2026.
Interested?
If you are passionate about technology, investigations and using digital evidence to support justice and safeguard communities, we would love to hear from you.
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