Trainee IRB Operator (FTC/Secondment)

Thames Valley Police is seeking a dedicated professional for the role of Trainee IRB Operator within the Information Research Bureau (IRB). This is a full-time, fixed-term contract or secondment position until 31/03/2027.

About the Information Research Bureau (IRB)

The IRB is a critical 24/7 department that supports the police force by researching, interpreting, and disseminating information and intelligence related to threats, risks, harm, and crime. This is done via radio, phone calls, incident logs, and other methods.

Your Role as a Trainee IRB Operator

You will be fully supported and coached throughout your training program, which includes classroom courses and in-house learning. Once fully trained, no two days will be the same.

Key Responsibilities:

• Create and maintain accurate criminal records on the Police National Computer (PNC), including vehicle markers, Missing Persons, Wanted Persons, Information Markers, and Operational Information.
• Provide real-time assistance to operational officers by researching and interrogating databases.
• Conduct research and interpret information from multiple policing systems to inform decisions on threat, harm, and risk.
• Advise on the utilisation of available resources and systems for investigations.
• Research intelligence and information for various incidents, including domestic abuse risk assessment and missing persons.
• Determine the proportionate and compliant disclosure of information.
• Handle intelligence related to protective orders (CSODS and DVDS).
• Conduct complex PNC investigations, including vehicle and person descriptive searches.
• Manage PNC DAF report administration.
• Evaluate messages received via PNC and decide on circulation areas.
• Process prison recall paperwork from the Home Office.
• Assist in pre-planned and ad hoc operations.

What You Need to Succeed:

• Educated to a good standard with excellent numeric and literacy skills (evidenced in application).
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to use initiative to analyse and resolve problems.
• Highly self-motivated.
• Ability to work as part of a busy team under pressure.
• Flexibility in approach to tasks and hours.
• Experience and ability to use computers with a wide variety of IT applications.
• Proven ability to input data accurately and quickly.
• A minimum typing speed of 28 WPM (required for interview assessment).

Vetting and Contract Details:

• This role requires an enhanced level of vetting.
• The position is a fixed-term contract or secondment until 31/03/2027.
• Permanent staff applying will be offered a secondment, requiring written support from their Line Manager and Head of Department/Commander or Deputy.
• Shift allowance, on-call, or other job-related allowances from a previous role will not be protected unless attached to the new role for the duration of the secondment.

Benefits:

• 24 days annual leave per annum (pro-rata for part-time) plus Bank Holidays.
• Flexible working conditions.
• Wide range of lifestyle discounts.
• Career development opportunities.
• Option to join a local government pension scheme.

How to Apply:

• The closing date for enquiries and completed applications is Sunday 15th November 2026.
• Please use Google Chrome when completing your application.
• Contact Recruitment Team at RecruitmentPoliceStaff@thamesvalley.police.uk quoting reference 24006 for any queries.