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As part of the Department for Work and Pensions' (DWP) response to tackling fraud within the welfare system, the Department utilises covert surveillance to gather evidence to prove/disprove offences.

This is an opportunity to join our team of highly trained, dedicated Covert Surveillance Officers in this challenging but highly rewarding role. This is not a normal office-hours role. It will require you to work unsociable hours (early starts and late finishes) including some weekend work alongside a good level of fitness.

As a CFCD Covert Surveillance Officer, you will:

• Lead in taking forward tasking requests. Ensuring all surveillance activity provides value for money, is compliant with legal requirements, such as the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, the Police Act 1997 and the Criminal Procedure and Investigations Act 1996, and in accordance with Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office recommendations as well as Departmental requirements.
• On occasion, lead the activities of the Surveillance Team, as an OIC (Officer in Charge), providing direction to the team as the dynamic and evolving circumstances demand and to achieve the operational objectives.
• Undertake Risk Assessments.
• Produce evidential packages to a high standard that are professional and accurate, including writing and obtaining witness statements to evidence witnessed activities, exhibit evidence obtained, including editing and compiling video/audio evidence and to account for the continuity of exhibits including preparing disclosure schedules in accordance with legislation.
• Ensure you adhere strictly to the DWP’s surveillance standards, and general instructions set out in the Fraud Procedures / Instructions Manual, and other user manuals and follow the processes to ensure people comply with the legal and policy requirements.
• Undertake and successfully complete a demanding suite of learning events to support you in undertaking this role. Included are several critical learning events required to undertake these duties. These events are assessed and successful completion is required for this role. Please also note some of these events may be residential.
• Promote professional standards at all times.
• As required, appear as a witness in court.
• Actively participate in surveillance operations, often requiring regular attendance in unsocial hours and travel. Some overnight stays may also be required.

Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme

Covert Surveillance Officer - Central

Company: Government Recruitment Service

Salary: £32,137 to £32,137 a year

Hours: Full-time

Location: Grantham

Job type: Permanent

Posting date: 23 Sept 2026

Closing date: 6 Oct 2026

About Disability Confident Disability Confident is a government scheme. It encourages employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with long term health conditions.