Field Officer

Job Purpose

Under the direct supervision of the Senior Analyst/Team Leader Commercial/Special Intelligence, the Field Officer is responsible to: 

• Optimise revenue and protect Jamaica’s borders and Jamaican society by gathering and recording information on the evasion of customs controls and commission of customs offences  
• Initiate and participate in the development of customs intelligence packages leading to the dissemination of specific and trend intelligence to CET and frontline officers  
• Create and maintain an effective deterrent against persons committing customs offences and thereby optimise revenue declared and collected (contribute) 
• Support the anti-corruption activities of Jamaica Customs by gathering and recording intelligence on malpractice and corruption within Jamaica Customs. 

Key Responsibility Areas

Technical Responsibilities

• Identifies recruits and handles sources of intelligence (including confidential informants, contacts and other persons who may be able to provide helpful information on customs offences. 
• Undertakes surveillance of persons, vehicles, goods and locations to gather intelligence about customs offences and identify persons involved. 
• Carries out inspections/examinations of persons, cargo, vessels, etc, to gather intelligence about customs offences and persons involved. 
• Examines and evaluates documents and other items to assess their relevance. 
• Meets and interviews persons to gather information about possible customs offences. 
• Works with other law enforcement agencies to identify, gather and collate intelligence on customs offences. 
• Initiates enquiries with other agencies (in Jamaica and abroad) to gather intelligence on possible customs offences.  
• Provides guidance and advice to officers on the gathering and recording of information in specific cases and in order to enhance their capacity. 

Customer Service Responsibilities

• Maintains customer service principles, standards, and measurements. 
• Identifies and incorporates the interests and needs of customers.
• Ensures critical success factors are identified and meet expectations.

Other Responsibilities

• Performs all other duties and functions as may be required occasionally.  
• May be required to provide witness statements, attend court proceedings, and give evidence. 
• Complies with Health & Safety Policies & Procedures.

Required Skills/Competencies

Core

• Excellent interpersonal skills 
• Excellent technical written and verbal skills 
• Excellent judgment, analytical skills and the ability to assess information; understand its potential meaning and make appropriate linkages 
• Strong planning and organising skills 
• Ability to quickly assimilate data and surrounding circumstances, understand what it might mean and draw conclusions to inform further questions/activities.  
• High levels of confidentiality, integrity, and honesty. 

Technical 

• Expert knowledge of laws and regulations governing Customs in Jamaica  
• Detailed knowledge of Customs policies, procedures and controls 
• Thorough knowledge and understanding of the principles of Intelligence and Risk Assessment 
• Good knowledge of international best practices in the areas of Customs and Border Protection 
• Working knowledge of relevant computer applications and systems 

Minimum Required Education and Experience

• First Degree Management Studies/Public Administration or equivalent qualification. 
• Specialised training in Customs Laws, Regulations and administration. Experience in intelligence gathering and coordination. 
• Experience in the development and application of risk assessment processes. 
• Two (2) years related experience 

Special Conditions Associated with The Job

• Work will be conducted in various offices outfitted with standard equipment and specialised software.  
• Involves working in a fast-paced environment with ongoing interactions with critical stakeholders. 
• On call 24 hours. 
• May be required to attend court proceedings periodically.