United Kingdom Job Openings
Home Office
Authorising Officer
Birmingham
FULL TIME & PART TIME
November 18, 2024
Details
Reference number
379197
Salary
£30,000 - £31,500
Plus shift allowance c.18%
A Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
Job grade
Executive Officer
Contract type
Permanent
Business area
HO - NDPBs - Investigatory Powers Commissioner's Office (IPCO)
Type of role
Operational Delivery
Working pattern
Annualised hours, Full-time, Part-time
Number of jobs available
8
Contents
-
Location
About the job
Benefits
Things you need to know
Apply and further information
Location
Birmingham, Manchester
About the job
Job summary
Who we are
The Investigatory Powers Act 2016 established the office of the Investigatory Powers Commissioner (‘IPC’) and provides for the appointment of Judicial Commissioners (JCs) to approve and oversee the use of investigatory powers by public authorities. The current IPC is Sir Brian Leveson.
The IPC and JCs have the important function of balancing the public interest and the rights of the individual independently of Government, specifically protecting the public by reviewing whether public authorities’ interference with those rights is justifiable.
IPCO are committed to creating an increasingly diverse and inclusive workplace. Our people are our greatest asset and so we aim to foster a safe environment where diversity of thought is welcomed, work-life balance is valued and opportunity for growth is encouraged.
Communications Data Authorisations
The IPC is responsible for the work of Communications Data Authorisations. The Authorisations team considers applications for the acquisition of communications data from law enforcement and public authorities. The team is located across two offices in Birmingham and Manchester.
Communications Data is the information generated which relates mostly to telephone communication or internet activity. The data describes the communication but not the content of this.
Communications data is now used in 95% of serious and organised criminal prosecutions and has been used in every major counter terrorism investigation over the past decade. As such, the acquisition of CD must be independently authorised and that is the function of IPCO as an independent body.
The Investigatory Powers Act 2016 established the office of the Investigatory Powers Commissioner (‘IPC’) and provides for the appointment of Judicial Commissioners (JCs) to approve and oversee the use of investigatory powers by public authorities. The current IPC is Sir Brian Leveson.
The IPC and JCs have the important function of balancing the public interest and the rights of the individual independently of Government, specifically protecting the public by reviewing whether public authorities’ interference with those rights is justifiable.
IPCO are committed to creating an increasingly diverse and inclusive workplace. Our people are our greatest asset and so we aim to foster a safe environment where diversity of thought is welcomed, work-life balance is valued and opportunity for growth is encouraged.
Communications Data Authorisations
The IPC is responsible for the work of Communications Data Authorisations. The Authorisations team considers applications for the acquisition of communications data from law enforcement and public authorities. The team is located across two offices in Birmingham and Manchester.
Communications Data is the information generated which relates mostly to telephone communication or internet activity. The data describes the communication but not the content of this.
Communications data is now used in 95% of serious and organised criminal prosecutions and has been used in every major counter terrorism investigation over the past decade. As such, the acquisition of CD must be independently authorised and that is the function of IPCO as an independent body.
Job description
The role of an Authorising Officer
Authorising Officers are responsible for assessing Public Authorities requests to acquire communications data in compliance with the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 and other relevant legislation.
Your role will be to independently assess the necessity and proportionality of applications received from Public Authorities. Applications are received from across the UK, and you will have the responsibility for the final decision as to authorise, decline or return applications.
The applications IPCO receive contain large amounts of information and need to be fully considered. Each application should be considered on its own merit, and you will make timely and objective decisions based on the facts available.
The role of Authorising Officer is vital as communications data can either support or disprove an alibi and can identify links that may exist between suspects and a crime scene. Sometimes CD is the only way to identify these offenders, particularly where offences are committed online, such as child sexual exploitation or fraud.
Our operation is a fast-paced environment, with high volume workloads.
Due to the nature of this work, high levels of discretion will be expected from the successful candidates.
Authorising Officers are responsible for assessing Public Authorities requests to acquire communications data in compliance with the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 and other relevant legislation.
Your role will be to independently assess the necessity and proportionality of applications received from Public Authorities. Applications are received from across the UK, and you will have the responsibility for the final decision as to authorise, decline or return applications.
The applications IPCO receive contain large amounts of information and need to be fully considered. Each application should be considered on its own merit, and you will make timely and objective decisions based on the facts available.
The role of Authorising Officer is vital as communications data can either support or disprove an alibi and can identify links that may exist between suspects and a crime scene. Sometimes CD is the only way to identify these offenders, particularly where offences are committed online, such as child sexual exploitation or fraud.
Our operation is a fast-paced environment, with high volume workloads.
Due to the nature of this work, high levels of discretion will be expected from the successful candidates.
Person specification
Responsibilities:
IPCO welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. To work in this role, successful applicants will be expected to be able to:
Shift Working:
The role of Authorising Officer is currently scheduled as a shift working role. The shift pattern includes early starts and evening and weekend working. It also includes working on Public Holidays. It is your responsibility to ensure that a shift working pattern is suitable for you before accepting a job offer.
AHW is an additional allowance received alongside your basic salary. This percentage calculation is assessed in line with the operational demands of the business and is subject to change and review. It is not guaranteed and may cease at any time. The allowance currently sits at circa 18%.
Whilst part-time work is available, it must meet fit within IPCO business hours, 0700 – 2200, and must include weekend and public holiday hours working hours.
IPCO are currently adhering to the Home Office hybrid working model, which will enable staff to split their time working in the office and at home. Currently this is 60% of working hours spent in the office.
Training
You will receive a fully comprehensive, classroom-based training package to fulfil the role of Authorising Officer. The training will take place over a period of six weeks, and you will be fully supported by IPCO’s training team. You will undertake an assessment which must be passed before you can commence the duties of the role.
The training will run on a full-time basis during weekdays; however, we will work to accommodate part-time workers after the initial training is completed. During the initial six-week training period you will receive a 0% annualised hours allowance that reflects the Monday to Friday working pattern.
Security Clearance
DV clearance or a commitment to undergo DV clearance is an essential requirement for this role. Successful candidates will be permitted to start with SC Vetting which will then be Enhanced whilst they undergo the DV clearance processes.
Further information relating to security vetting can be found at United Kingdom Security Vetting: Applicant - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
IPCO welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. To work in this role, successful applicants will be expected to be able to:
- Assimilate complex information quickly and use it to make effective decisions independently within the strict constraints of legislation.
- Understand the impact of their decisions, take responsibility, and have the confidence to justify them.
- Have effective written and oral communication skills and be comfortable engaging with a variety of stakeholders at different levels.
- Respond positively to changes in working systems, processes and teams and follow the productivity targets, showing commitment to continuous improvement in an environment where performance matters.
- Ability to work responsibly in dealing with confidential/sensitive information, being mindful of data security.
Shift Working:
The role of Authorising Officer is currently scheduled as a shift working role. The shift pattern includes early starts and evening and weekend working. It also includes working on Public Holidays. It is your responsibility to ensure that a shift working pattern is suitable for you before accepting a job offer.
AHW is an additional allowance received alongside your basic salary. This percentage calculation is assessed in line with the operational demands of the business and is subject to change and review. It is not guaranteed and may cease at any time. The allowance currently sits at circa 18%.
Whilst part-time work is available, it must meet fit within IPCO business hours, 0700 – 2200, and must include weekend and public holiday hours working hours.
IPCO are currently adhering to the Home Office hybrid working model, which will enable staff to split their time working in the office and at home. Currently this is 60% of working hours spent in the office.
Training
You will receive a fully comprehensive, classroom-based training package to fulfil the role of Authorising Officer. The training will take place over a period of six weeks, and you will be fully supported by IPCO’s training team. You will undertake an assessment which must be passed before you can commence the duties of the role.
The training will run on a full-time basis during weekdays; however, we will work to accommodate part-time workers after the initial training is completed. During the initial six-week training period you will receive a 0% annualised hours allowance that reflects the Monday to Friday working pattern.
Security Clearance
DV clearance or a commitment to undergo DV clearance is an essential requirement for this role. Successful candidates will be permitted to start with SC Vetting which will then be Enhanced whilst they undergo the DV clearance processes.
Further information relating to security vetting can be found at United Kingdom Security Vetting: Applicant - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
Behaviours
We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:
- Making Effective Decisions
- Delivering at Pace
- Managing a Quality Service
- Making Effective Decisions
Benefits
Alongside your salary of £30,000, Home Office contributes £8,691 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.
- Comprehensive operational training tailored to your role.
- Continued learning and development opportunities.
- Regular performance and development reviews.
- Opportunity of hybrid working and flexible working options.
- Ongoing development of skills within your area of the business.
- Opportunities to engage with stakeholders.
- A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity.
- A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 28.97%.
Things you need to know
Selection process details
This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Ability and Experience.
Selection Process Details
This vacancy is using success profiles, and will assess your behaviours, experience, and ability.
As part of the sift process, you will be asked to complete a CV, a Statement of Suitability (Max word limit 750) and one behaviour example: Making Effective Decisions (Max word limit 250).
Your statement of suitability should be aligned to the responsibilities of the role as set out in the job advertisement.
The CV may be marked as part of the sift if a large number of applications are received.
Behaviours assessed as part of the interview will be:
Interviews will be conducted virtually via Microsoft Teams.
Sifting will commence 23/12/2024.
Interviews will take place week commencing 27/01/2025.
These timelines are subject to change, due to business needs.
Further information
In order to process applications without delay, we will be sending a Criminal Record Check to Disclosure and Barring Service on your behalf. However, we recognise in exceptional circumstances some candidates will want to send their completed forms direct.
If you will be doing this, please advise Government Recruitment Service of your intention by emailing Pre-Employment Checks.grs@cabinetoffice.gov.uk stating the job reference number in the subject heading.
If you are successful in this position and choose to accept the provisional offer for this role, you will be removed from all other Home Office reserve lists at the same grade
Applicants who are successful at interview will be, as part of pre-employment screening, subject to a check on the Internal Fraud Database (IFD). This check will provide information about employees who have been dismissed for fraud or dishonesty offences. This check also applies to employees who resign or otherwise leave before being dismissed for fraud or dishonesty had their employment continued. Any applicant's details held on the IFD will be refused employment.
If you are invited to an interview you will be required to bring a range of documentation for the purposes of establishing identity and to aid any pre-employment checks.
Please see the attached list of acceptable ID documents.
You will need to meet the nationality requirements for this role and obtain the necessary security clearance to take it up. For meaningful security checks to be carried out, individuals need to have lived in the UK for a sufficient period of time. Learn more on our website. Security Checks - Home Office Careers
For further information on National Security Vetting please visit the following page https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/demystifying-vetting
For further information on National Security Vetting please visit the following page https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/demystifying-vetting
Any move to the Home Office from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk
Reasonable Adjustments
If a person with disabilities is at a substantial disadvantage compared to a non-disabled person, we have a duty to make reasonable changes to our processes.
If you need a change to be made so that you can make your application, you should:
Contact Government Recruitment Service via HOrecruitment.grs@cabinetoffice.gov.uk
Feedback
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
This vacancy is using success profiles, and will assess your behaviours, experience, and ability.
As part of the sift process, you will be asked to complete a CV, a Statement of Suitability (Max word limit 750) and one behaviour example: Making Effective Decisions (Max word limit 250).
Your statement of suitability should be aligned to the responsibilities of the role as set out in the job advertisement.
The CV may be marked as part of the sift if a large number of applications are received.
Behaviours assessed as part of the interview will be:
- Making Effective Decisions.
- Delivering at Pace.
- Managing a Quality Service.
Interviews will be conducted virtually via Microsoft Teams.
Sifting will commence 23/12/2024.
Interviews will take place week commencing 27/01/2025.
These timelines are subject to change, due to business needs.
Further information
In order to process applications without delay, we will be sending a Criminal Record Check to Disclosure and Barring Service on your behalf. However, we recognise in exceptional circumstances some candidates will want to send their completed forms direct.
If you will be doing this, please advise Government Recruitment Service of your intention by emailing Pre-Employment Checks.grs@cabinetoffice.gov.uk stating the job reference number in the subject heading.
If you are successful in this position and choose to accept the provisional offer for this role, you will be removed from all other Home Office reserve lists at the same grade
Applicants who are successful at interview will be, as part of pre-employment screening, subject to a check on the Internal Fraud Database (IFD). This check will provide information about employees who have been dismissed for fraud or dishonesty offences. This check also applies to employees who resign or otherwise leave before being dismissed for fraud or dishonesty had their employment continued. Any applicant's details held on the IFD will be refused employment.
If you are invited to an interview you will be required to bring a range of documentation for the purposes of establishing identity and to aid any pre-employment checks.
Please see the attached list of acceptable ID documents.
You will need to meet the nationality requirements for this role and obtain the necessary security clearance to take it up. For meaningful security checks to be carried out, individuals need to have lived in the UK for a sufficient period of time. Learn more on our website. Security Checks - Home Office Careers
For further information on National Security Vetting please visit the following page https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/demystifying-vetting
For further information on National Security Vetting please visit the following page https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/demystifying-vetting
Any move to the Home Office from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk
Reasonable Adjustments
If a person with disabilities is at a substantial disadvantage compared to a non-disabled person, we have a duty to make reasonable changes to our processes.
If you need a change to be made so that you can make your application, you should:
Contact Government Recruitment Service via HOrecruitment.grs@cabinetoffice.gov.uk
- as soon as possible before the closing date to discuss your needs
- Complete the “Assistance Required” section in the “Additional Requirements” page of your application form to tell us what changes or help you might need further on in the recruitment process. For instance, you may need wheelchair access at interview, or if you're deaf, a language service professional
Feedback
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
Security
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is security check (opens in a new window).
See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).
See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Nationality requirements
Open to UK nationals only.
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).
Apply and further information
This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.
Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.
Contact point for applicants
Job contact :
Name :
IPCO Recruitment
Email :
recruitment@ipco.org.uk
Email :
HOrecruitment.grs@cabinetoffice.gov.uk
Further information
If you feel that your application has not been treated in accordance with the recruitment principles, and wish to make a complaint, then you should contact in the first instance
HORecruitment.GRS@cabinetoffice.gov.uk. If you are not satisfied with the response that you receive, then you can contact the Civil Service Commission
HORecruitment.GRS@cabinetoffice.gov.uk. If you are not satisfied with the response that you receive, then you can contact the Civil Service Commission
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