Contact Officer

Important Information Before You Apply

To complete the Situational Judgement Test and Virtual Assessment, you must use a laptop or desktop computer. These assessments are not compatible with tablets, iPads, or mobile phones.

For application queries, please email: alliance-policestaffrecruitment@dorset.pnn.police.uk

Please do not contact 101 by phone or email, as recruitment queries will not be answered.

Candidates must be 18 years old by the start date. The shift pattern is fixed and cannot be adjusted, so please ensure you can commit to it before applying.

Training takes place at Police Headquarters, Exeter, Monday to Friday for 7 weeks. You must be able to attend before applying. Further training details are provided below. 

Salary
  • £27,204 during training.
  • Up to £32,644 after training, including a 20% shift allowance.
  • Up to £2,500 additional weekend working allowance once working the shift pattern.
  • Potential earnings of up to £38,330 after 4 years' service, including shift and weekend allowances.  
About the Role

We're seeking friendly, resilient and customer-focused individuals to join our Contact Resolution Centres in Plymouth and Exeter.

As a Contact Officer, you'll handle emergency and non-emergency calls, gathering critical information quickly and accurately while providing a professional and empathetic service. No two calls are the same, and you'll often support people during difficult or distressing situations.

This is a rewarding role with comprehensive training and ongoing support. Flexibility is essential, as shifts include nights, weekends and some bank holidays. 

For more information about the role, visit: DC Contact and Resolution Command - Working in Partnership 

Training Programme

Training consists of:

  • An initial 7-week course (Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm) at Police Headquarters, Exeter.
  • A period of supported operational training within the Contact Centre.
  • A further 2-week training course at Exeter Headquarters.

You must be willing to travel to Exeter regardless of your posting location. For candidates living more than 30 miles away, a pool car, hire car or accommodation may be available. 

No annual leave can be taken during training. 

Planned training dates:

  • 4 January 2027 to 5 March 2027
  • Additional training: 12 April 2027 to 23 April 2027  
Part-Time Working

This is a full-time role. Flexible working requests may be submitted after appointment but cannot be guaranteed and will depend on operational requirements.  

Tenure

The role carries a minimum two-year tenure. Successful candidates cannot apply for internal vacancies within the first two years due to the level of training required.  

Benefits
  • Competitive salary with annual increments
  • 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 days after 5 years' service
  • Local Government Pension Scheme
  • Subsidised gym membership
  • Blue Light Card discounts
  • Company sick pay
  • Free parking at many sites
  • Group insurance scheme
  • Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support
  • Ongoing development and training opportunities  

Apply