At the Home Office, we work to make the UK safer, fairer and more prosperous. That means tackling threats like terrorism and organised crime, combating modern slavery and trafficking, shaping drugs policy, and managing immigration and passport services.
Within Immigration Enforcement, our Criminal and Financial Investigation (CFI) teams work to dismantle the organised crime groups behind immigration abuse. Combining criminal and financial investigation expertise, we identify how these networks operate, remove the proceeds of crime, and strip criminals of their assets.
We work closely with partners including the National Crime Agency (NCA), territorial policing and other government departments, taking coordinated, decisive action against those who profit from illegal migration.
About the role As a PIP1 Accredited Criminal Investigator you’ll investigate immigration crime and related offending, including burglary and theft, and work to remove illicit profits gained through criminal activity.
This is a frontline role with real variety, giving you exposure to the full investigative process. One day you might be gathering and assessing evidence, another interviewing suspects or witnesses, and at other times supporting court proceedings or working on asset recovery under the Proceeds of Crime Act. Throughout all of this, you’ll work in line with Professional Investigation Programme (PIP) standards, making sure your investigations are structured, proportionate and legally robust.
Beyond the day-to-day, this role offers genuine breadth of exposure. You’ll have the opportunity to work across serious and complex crime, financial investigation, and partnership working that extends well beyond a single organisation.
Please note, a high level of mobility and fitness is required to carry out the duties of this role.
About you You’ll bring experience of conducting criminal investigations, with a Level 1 PIP accreditation, and confidence managing cases from start to finish. This includes gathering evidence, interviewing suspects and witnesses, analysing information, and progressing investigations in line with legislation. You’ll also be comfortable preparing case files and presenting evidence in court, whether in the Crown or Magistrates’ Court.
Alongside your technical expertise, you bring sound judgement and a clear, methodical approach to decision-making. You’re able to assess risk, weigh evidence objectively and take ownership of your work, maintaining high standards of professionalism and integrity throughout. You communicate clearly and confidently both verbally and in writing and you’re comfortable working in an everchanging, sometimes challenging environment.
Due to the nature of the work and the geographical areas, some travel by official vehicle will be inevitable and applicants must hold a valid full UK (manual or automatic) driving licence. Training and development From the moment you join the Home Office you’ll receive full training and support in your role. Training will initially take place in the classroom, and continues on the job with a mentor, until you feel fully confident in your duties. You’ll have access to advice every day should you need it, along with the support of your colleagues.