Technical Solutions Designer

Job title: Technical Solutions Designer
Grade: PO 3
Role code: EIT0064
Status: Police Staff

Main purpose of the role:

Provide advice and analysis on technical aspects of system development and integration producing reference high level and low level design documents for technical review and for use by implementation teams, ensuring that the forces IT infrastructure maximise opportunities and facilitates the effective use of information systems throughout Kent Police and Essex Police.

Main responsibilities:

• Identify the impact of proposed developments on the forces live infrastructure, environment, IT infrastructure standards and strategies, ensure traction on specific technological requirements of systems, consult with principal stakeholders, ensuring that systems architectures balance functional, service quality and systems management requirements, in order to ensure the compatibility and compliance of systems and structures that are introduced into both forces.
• Monitor new and emerging technologies, hardware, software and communication technologies and products, undertaking investigations, assessing and evaluating their relevance and potential benefit to Kent Police and Essex Police, preparing reports and developing business proposals, ensuring that both forces are able to take maximum advantage of new and emerging technologies that enhance the quality and viability of effective IT services.
• Provide advice on technical aspects of system design, development and integration, including the operational and maintenance aspects of systems under development, and proposed system recovery procedures, monitoring technical progress, consulting project management, transition and development teams of major technical issues and problems, in order to ensure the compatibility and effectiveness of systems and structures introduced.
• Contribute to the monitoring of the technical implications and progress of changes to new and existing applications, evaluating the impact on the IT infrastructure, in order to support the provision of efficient and effective IT services for both forces.
• Produce high level design and low level design documents, as well as working with 3rd party suppliers to enable them to submit high and low level designs using appropriate tools, including logical models of components and interfaces, advising on the identification of products to support procurement decisions that support procurement and financial decisions and contribute to the development and implementation of high quality systems architectures throughout Kent Police and Essex Police.
• Participate as a member of project boards, working groups, attending other relevant meetings at a local, county and regional level, to ensure consistency of design and application of architectural standards throughout the IT Services change portfolio.
• Assist the Technical Solutions Architect to promote and develop working partnerships with external organisations, other police forces and partners, identifying common issues and themes, creating a wide range of contacts, so as to support regional and national IT infrastructure developments, share best working practices and maximise the benefits of good working relationships.
• Work closely with the Technical Solutions Architect and Network Solutions Designer to ensure solutions, designs, and IT standards and strategies are created and delivered in a clear and consistent way.

June 2017

Necessary experience:

The Technical Solutions Designer will ideally possess a relevant IT degree and the ITIL Managers Certificate and have a thorough knowledge of the policing and business operating environments. A detailed knowledge of ITIL Version 3 is required. They will have a detailed knowledge of the ITIL framework, specifically change, problem and incident management. SFIA Skills at Level 5 in Systems Integration, Release Management and Solution Architecture are required.

The Technical Solutions Designer will require an expert knowledge of technical solution delivery within a large multi-site organisation, incorporating planning and management of the interaction and integration between a number of IT systems, components, computers or other devices. The post holder will have a detailed practical knowledge of the forces IT infrastructures and software development and maintenance methods, tools and techniques. This will include the frameworks and principles on which networks, systems, equipment and resources are based and the IT applications and service processes used within both forces. A sound knowledge of risk assessment, change management, configuration management, reliability and safety methods and the use of metrics is essential.

They must have a broad business knowledge and an extensive understanding of current and emerging information and communications technologies and of how they can support and enhance the forces business operations.

The Technical Solutions Designer will possess the technical skills and knowledge necessary to identify new and emerging hardware, software and communication technologies and products, services, methods and techniques and the assessment of their relevance and potential value to the Forces.

They will have strong interpersonal, analytical and communication skills both verbal and written. Significant personal motivation and drive is essential. The post holder will need to have credibility and the confidence of senior police managers, IT Managers and colleagues to influence developments over a range of important IT projects.

This post is deemed to be a designated post. Vetting clearance is a pre- requisite of employment in designated posts and the post holder will be subject to a management vetting assessment every 12 months. National Security vetting clearances are reviewed every 5 years.

Behaviours:

Analyse Critically (Level 2)

I ensure that the best available evidence from a wide range of sources is taken into account when making decisions. I think about different perspectives and motivations when reviewing information and how this may influence key points. I ask incisive questions to test out facts and assumptions, questioning and challenging the information provided when necessary. I understand when to balance decisive action with due consideration. I recognise patterns, themes and connections between several and diverse sources of information and the best available evidence. I identify when I need to take action on the basis of limited information and think about how to mitigate the risks in doing so. I challenge others to ensure that decisions are made in alignment with our mission, values and the Code of Ethics.

Collaborative (Level 2)

I manage relationships and partnerships for the long term, sharing information and building trust to find the best solutions. I help create joined-up solutions across organisational and geographical boundaries, partner organisations and those the police serve. I understand the local partnership context, helping me to use a range of tailored steps to build support. I work with our partners to decide who is best placed to take the lead on initiatives. I try to anticipate our partners' needs and take action to address these. I do not make assumptions. I check that our partners are getting what they need from the police service. I build commitment from others (including the public) to work together to deliver agreed outcomes.

Deliver, Support and Inspire (Level 2)

I give clear direction and expectations, helping others to understand how their work operates in the wider context. I identify barriers that inhibit performance in my teams and take steps to resolve these, enabling others to perform. I lead the public and / or colleagues, where appropriate, during incidents or through the provision of advice and support. I ensure the efficient use of resources to create the most value and the right impact within my areas. I keep track of changes in the external environment, anticipating both the short and long term potential implications for the Police Service. I motivate and inspire others to achieve their best.

Emotionally Aware (Level 2)

I consider the perspectives of people from a wide range of backgrounds before taking action. I adapt my style and approach according to the needs of the people I am working with, using my own behaviour to achieve the best outcome. I promote a culture that values diversity and encourages challenge. I encourage reflective practice among others and take the time to support others to understand reactions and behaviours. I take responsibility for helping to ensuring the emotional well being of those in my teams. I take the responsibility to deal with any inappropriate behaviours.

Innovative and Open-minded (Level 2)

I explore a number of different sources of information and use a variety of tools when faced with a problem and look for good practice that is not always from policing. I am able to spot opportunities or threats which may influence how I go about my job in the future by using knowledge of trends, new thinking about policing and changing demographics in the population. I am flexible in my approach, changing my plans to make sure that I have the best impact. I encourage others to be creative and take appropriate risks. I share my explorations and understanding of the wider internal and external environment.

Take Ownership (Level 2)

I proactively create a culture of ownership within my areas of work and support others to display personal responsibility. I take responsibility for making improvements to policies, processes and procedures, actively encouraging others to contribute their ideas. I am accountable for the decisions my team make and the activities within our teams. I take personal responsibility for seeing events through to a satisfactory conclusion and for correcting any problems both promptly and openly. I actively encourage and support learning within my teams and colleagues.

Values:

Impartiality (Accredited)

I take into account individual needs and requirements in all of my actions. I understand that treating everyone fairly does not mean everyone is treated the same. I always give people an equal opportunity to express their views. I communicate with everyone, making sure the most relevant message is provided to all. I value everyone's views and opinions by actively listening to understand their perspective. I make fair and objective decisions using the best available evidence. I enable everyone to have equal access to services and information, where appropriate.

Integrity (Accredited)

I always act in line with the values of the police service and the Code of Ethics for the benefit of the public. I demonstrate courage in doing the right thing, even in challenging situations. I enhance the reputation of my organisation and the wider police service through my actions and behaviours. I challenge colleagues whose behaviour, attitude and language falls below the public's and the service's expectations. I am open and responsive to challenge about my actions and words. I declare any conflicts of interest at the earliest opportunity. I am respectful of the authority and influence my position gives me. I use resources effectively and efficiently and not for personal benefit.

Public Service (Accredited)

I act in the interest of the public, first and foremost. I am motivated by serving the public, ensuring that I provide the best service possible at all times. I seek to understand the needs of others to act in their best interests. I adapt to address the needs and concerns of different communities. I tailor my communication to be appropriate and respectful to my audience. I take into consideration how others want to be treated when interacting with them. I treat people respectfully regardless of the circumstances. I share credit with everyone involved in delivering services.

Transparency (Accredited)

I ensure that my decision-making rationale is clear and considered so that it is easily understood by others. I am clear and comprehensive when communicating with others. I am open and honest about my areas for development and I strive to improve. I give an accurate representation of my actions and records. I recognise the value of feedback and act on it. I give constructive and accurate feedback. I represent the opinions of others accurately and consistently. I am consistent and truthful in my communications. I maintain confidentiality appropriately.

Technical skills:

Business Planning (Level 4)

Gathers relevant information and statistics to support the business planning process at Division / Department level. Identifies key objectives in order to improve local performance and ensures these are aligned with the Force Strategic Aims. Effectively communicates agreed objectives and targets to the local workforce. Plans for and ensures the best use of resources and value for money.

Data and Systems Security (Level 5)

Demonstrates the skills necessary to carry out assessments of risks for systems within the Force or those under acquisition or development using risk analysis techniques and computer audit software (e.g. CRAMM). Understands the implications of risks and makes informed recommendations to adjust the annual audit plan in light of the results. Able to identify methodologies and approaches for systems under review using recognised audit procedures (e.g. GIAM). Uses these skills to devise Force policy on data and system.

Health and Safety (Level 3)

Has a basic understanding of Health and Safety issues affecting the current role and working environment. Takes responsibility for personal safety and the safety of others. Aware of hazards and reports problems identified to line manager. Understands and minimises the physical risk of injury through the use of proper manual handling procedures.

ICT - Systems Implementation (Level 5)

Has significant experience in implementing computer systems, exhibiting a high degree of proficiency in several technical disciplines. Able to work with and influence systems designers, programmers and suppliers in the delivery of working systems. Likely to have extensive experience in a range of IT systems and to have or be working towards membership of the BCS or equivalent.

Internal Consultancy (Level 5)

Provides expert consultancy support, advice and guidance to senior managers in Departments and Areas. Understands and agrees client requirements. Agrees the level of service required after exploring all relevant options and consequences to ensure best value. Utilises appropriate techniques to gather and analyse specific, high quality data. Possesses the ability to influence others and gain commitment to action. Able to provide a seamless consultancy service.

Knowledge of Police Environment and Policy (Level 5)

Has a thorough understanding of the police service, nationally and locally, and is proactive in developing proposals which affect the way Kent Police and/or Essex Police operates. Possesses a detailed understanding of the inter-relationships between activities, roles, functions, and how organisation structures and police systems work. Understands and impacts on working procedures, practices and policies within areas of responsibility and ensures that these are followed at all times. Contributes to Force goals and is laccountable for delivering local business plan objectives.

Management of Police Information (MOPI) (Level 4)

Full compliance with Level 3. Has successfully completed all standard relevant Information Management and Security training package(s). Accurate use of Government Security Classification (GSC). Ensures physical and digital records are stored with appropriate security relevant to the sensitivity of the documents and has working understanding of appropriate National Retention Schedules. Is able to quality assure own records management processes as well as those of any staff for whom they have supervisory responsibility. Is aware of where to seek further support in relation to Records management within force when necessary. If nominated as an Information Asset Assistant is familiar with the NPCC Information Asset Owners Handbook.

Risk Management (Level 5)

Able to anticipate, accurately define and establish the relative level of risk likely to affect their specialist function, in terms of likelihood and impact, together with how the challenges facing the wider organisation might affect their role within the force. Assesses the risks of national initiatives providing feedback at the relevant level. Has an understanding of pathways to alert all appropriate senior managers to flawed or ineffective control strategies and provide continuity/recovery options. Has an appreciation that seizing opportunities also generates risks.

National Occupational Standards:

AA1 - Work in co-operation with other organisations.