SNCO Investigator DSCU Edinburgh
JPAN: 2271545
Grade: OR6 - Sergeant
Location: DSCU Edinburgh Office, Redford Bk, EH13 0PP
Contract: 40 hours per week, three-year fixed term, full commitment, The Armed Forces do not pay overtime but Time Off In Lieu is available
Security clearance: UK Security Clearance and Non Police Personnel Vetting NPPV Level 2
Closing date: 02/03/2026 23:55
All offers of employment are subject to UK security clearance. To gain this clearance applicants normally need at least five years’ UK residency.
Overview
The ZigZag Career Pathway is an innovative Defence initiative that offers novel ways of entry into the Armed Forces. It’s a pilot programme that opens the door for people from a range of backgrounds to apply their professional skills in meaningful Defence roles.
This opportunity is open to civilians, veterans and reservists. Whether you’ve never served before or are looking to return, the ZigZag Career Pathway offers you the chance to work in fixed term military roles that are matched to your qualifications and experience.
ZigZag roles may be offered with a range of mobility commitments. Successful candidates will be supported with tailored onboarding, the right level of training, and a structured and supported induction into the Armed Forces environment.
The Defence Serious Crime Command DSCC is an independent, professional and global Service Police force with jurisdiction to investigate serious crime involving persons subject to Service law, both in the UK and overseas.
The Role
We are looking for a PIP 2-qualified Investigator to join a team of military investigators and deliver thorough, timely, and ethical investigations. The role requires a results-driven professional with strong planning skills, a collaborative approach, and a commitment to high standards. You will handle complex cases, assess risks, and drive efficiency in a fast-paced environment.
This is a unique chance to work within the Armed Forces, share best practices, and mentor colleagues through the Professional Investigations Programme. You will help foster an inclusive culture, support professional growth, and build partnerships with internal and external judicial stakeholders to strengthen public service delivery.
Short-term overseas deployments (2–3 weeks) may be available during the three-year contract for those with Full Mobility commitments, subject to medical and fitness requirements. Voluntary opportunities for Partial or No Mobility commitments may also be considered.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct investigations, ensuring complete and accurate case files are prepared for submission to the Director of Service Prosecutions.
- Manage and safeguard criminal property and any associated items.
- Mentor, advise, and support junior officers and subordinates on their professional development pathway.
- Be ready to deploy worldwide to support operations and investigations as required, within the terms and conditions of service.
About You
We are looking for a motivated and proactive individual who demonstrates
- Relevant experience as a qualified PIP 2 investigator, with the ability to meet physical requirements for Public and Personal Safety Training
- Must be a UK citizen or British Dual National with five years’ continuous residency and hold a full UK manual driving licence
- Key skills including exceptional problem solving, critical thinking under pressure, excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, high emotional intelligence and resilience
- Qualifications including GCSE English and Maths at Grade C or above
- Other requirements including the ability to obtain and retain SC and NPPV Level 2, readiness to work longer hours when required, and the capability to deploy worldwide at short notice for periods of 7- 21 nights
Training
- Depending on the candidate’s experience, a period of residential Phase 1 RAF Training will be required.
- Armed Forces Act Powers and Legislation - Defence School of Police and Security
- Public and Personal Protection Training - Defence School of Police and Security
- Workplace induction and specific accredited training as required
Salary & benefits
- Salary £45,876- £50,849 per year
- Pension: automatic enrolment in the non-contributory Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2015 (optout available)
- Leave: 30 days’ annual leave plus eight UK bank holidays
- Other benefits: Free medical and dental care, childcare benefits, enhanced parental leave packages, and flexible service arrangements
Application process
- Application: submit a CV via the SERVE portal. Eligibility checks are completed, and applications are sifted for suitability
- Interview: shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview covering technical skills, qualifications and suitability for military service (command, leadership and management experience)
- Medical Assessment: all candidates must pass a medical screening
- Offer: successful candidates receive terms and conditions, and a job offer letter
Don’t meet all the requirements? Get in touch anyway – we are keen to hear from talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. For questions or more information, contact: People-Tx-ZigZagCareers@mod.gov.uk.
