• Posted: September 23, 2025
• Application Deadline: Tuesday, October 17, 2025, at Midnight
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Address: Independent Policing Oversight Authority, ACK Garden Annex, 2nd Floor, 1st Ngong Avenue, P.O. Box 23035-00100, Nairobi, Kenya

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), established under the Independent Policing Oversight Authority Act Cap. 86 of the Laws of Kenya in November 2011, is a critical institution tasked with providing civilian oversight over the National Police Service in Kenya. IPOA’s mandate is to ensure accountability, professionalism, and public trust in policing through impartial investigations, inspections, audits, and monitoring. With its headquarters in Nairobi, IPOA operates with a vision to foster a robust civilian accountability mechanism that promotes confidence in the National Police Service and a mission to conduct independent investigations to prevent impunity and enhance professionalism. As of September 23, 2025, IPOA is recruiting for 6 vacant positions across its Internal Audit, Investigations, and Legal Services departments. These IPOA Jobs offer dynamic opportunities for results-oriented Kenyan citizens with a passion for justice, governance, and public service to contribute to police accountability and reform.

Key Notice: IPOA’s recruitment process is free of charge. Applicants should beware of fraudulent requests for payment for CBTs, tests, or assessments and report suspicious activity to the authorities. IPOA is an equal opportunity employer, prohibiting discrimination based on race, religion, color, ethnic origin, political affiliation, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, disability, health, or social status. Canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by October 17, 2025. Successful candidates must comply with Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, providing clearance certificates from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), Credit Reference Bureau (CRB), and Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC). IPOA adheres to the Data Protection Act, ensuring that personal data is processed in line with its Privacy Policy.

Overview of Open Positions at IPOA

IPOA is offering 6 positions across four roles in Nairobi, Kenya, categorized under Internal Audit and Risk, Investigations, and Legal Services. These roles span job grades IPOA 4, IPOA 6, and IPOA 9, offering permanent, full-time employment opportunities. Below is a summary of the positions:

Internal Audit and Risk (1 Position)

1. Senior Assistant Director, Internal Audit and Risk (1 Post, IPOA 4)

Investigations (4 Positions)

2. Principal Investigations Officer (3 Posts, IPOA 6)
3. Investigations Officer II (1 Post, IPOA 9)

Legal Services (1 Position)

4. Principal Legal Officer (1 Post, IPOA 6)

These IPOA Jobs are designed for professionals committed to advancing civilian oversight, ensuring police accountability, and promoting public trust in Kenya’s National Police Service.

General Application Guidelines

• Application Process: Candidates must submit applications online via IPOA’s careers portal at www.ipoa.go.ke/ipoa/careers by midnight on Tuesday, October 17, 2025. Required documents include a Cover Letter specifying the position and job reference number (e.g., “Application: Senior Assistant Director, Internal Audit and Risk – IPOA/HR/08/2025”), a detailed Curriculum Vitae, certified copies of academic and professional certificates, testimonials, and supporting documents (e.g., KRA, DCI, HELB, CRB, and EACC clearances or proof of application). Hand-delivered or emailed applications will not be accepted.
• Location: All positions are based at IPOA’s headquarters in Nairobi, with potential field visits across Kenya for investigations and oversight activities.
• Deadline: Applications must be received by midnight on October 17, 2025. Early submission is recommended due to the competitive nature of these IPOA Jobs.
• Communication: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants should monitor their email (including spam/junk folders) for updates from IPOA.
• Fraud Prevention: IPOA does not engage recruitment agencies or charge fees for any recruitment process (application, shortlisting, or interview). Verify communications via the official website and report suspicious activity to the authorities.
• Eligibility: Applicants must be Kenyan citizens and comply with Chapter Six requirements, providing valid clearance certificates from KRA, DCI, HELB, CRB, and EACC.
• Qualifications: Requirements vary by role (detailed below), typically requiring a Bachelor’s degree, relevant professional certifications, and experience. Fluency in English is mandatory; proficiency in Swahili is an advantage.
• Canvassing: Canvassing will result in automatic disqualification, ensuring a transparent and merit-based selection process for all IPOA Jobs.
• Data Protection: IPOA adheres to the Data Protection Act, safeguarding applicants’ personal data in accordance with its Privacy Policy.

Important Notes:

• Applications must include all required documents in PDF format, clearly specifying the position and job reference number. Incomplete applications will be rejected.
• Shortlisted candidates must present original documents (ID, certificates, testimonials, clearances) during interviews.
• IPOA promotes diversity, strongly encouraging applications from women, persons living with disabilities, and candidates from marginalized communities.
• Salaries and benefits align with IPOA’s grading structure and guidelines from the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).

Detailed Job Descriptions and Requirements

Below is a comprehensive breakdown of each role, including job purpose, responsibilities, qualifications, and why these IPOA Jobs offer exceptional opportunities for professionals dedicated to police oversight and public service.

1. SENIOR ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, INTERNAL AUDIT AND RISK (IPOA 4, 1 Post, IPOA/HR/08/2025)

Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Qualification: Master’s degree in Business Administration (Accounting/Finance), Master of Science (Accounting/Finance), or equivalent; Bachelor’s degree in Commerce (Accounting/Finance) or equivalent
Experience: 15 years cumulative, with 3 years at Assistant Director level (IPOA 5 or equivalent)
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Field: Finance / Accounting / Audit
Apply: www.ipoa.go.ke/ipoa/careers

Job Purpose

The Senior Assistant Director, Internal Audit and Risk provides independent assurance on IPOA’s risk management, governance processes, and internal control systems, ensuring operational effectiveness and compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks.

Key Responsibilities

• Policy and Strategy Development (20%):
  • Spearhead the development, implementation, and review of internal audit policies, strategies, frameworks, guidelines, work plans, standards, and procedures.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable laws, statutes, and government circulars.
• Audit and Risk Management (30%):
  • Oversee risk-based annual internal audit plans and programs.
  • Conduct audit reviews to assess risk management effectiveness and internal control adequacy.
  • Monitor internal controls for risk management, compliance, security, ethics, and environmental issues.
  • Coordinate external audits by the Office of the Auditor General.
  • Develop risk management guidelines and anti-corruption strategies.
• Reporting and Communication (20%):
  • Lead the development of internal audit and risk assessment reports.
  • Oversee follow-up audits, report findings, and ensure implementation of recommendations.
  • Communicate audit findings and recommendations to Management and the Risk and Audit Committee.
• Capacity Building (15%):
  • Coordinate periodic training workshops on governance, risk management, and internal controls.
  • Steer staff coaching, mentorship, and capacity development within the department.
• Resource and Performance Management (10%):
  • Direct the utilization of financial and material resources allocated to the department.
  • Oversee staff performance management and professional development.
• Committee Support (5%):
  • Provide secretarial services to the Risk and Audit Committee.
• Safeguarding: Ensure compliance with IPOA’s safeguarding policies, report incidents, and promote a safe working environment.

Key Outputs/Deliverables

• Robust internal audit frameworks and compliant risk management systems for IPOA.
• Comprehensive audit reports and implemented recommendations.
• Trained staff and effective Risk and Audit Committee support.
• Accurate resource utilization and performance management systems.

Qualifications and Skills

• Education:
  • Master’s degree in Business Administration (Accounting/Finance), Master of Science (Accounting/Finance), or equivalent from a recognized institution.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Commerce (Accounting/Finance), Business Administration (Accounting/Finance), or equivalent from a recognized institution.
  • Certified Public Accountants (CPA) Part III, Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA) Part III, Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) III, or equivalent.
  • Certified Information System Auditors (CISA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), or equivalent.
  • Professional qualification in Enterprise Risk Management from a recognized institution.
• Experience:
  • Cumulative 15 years of experience, with 3 years at Assistant Director, Internal Audit and Risk (IPOA 5 or equivalent).
• Certifications and Memberships:
  • Registered with the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK).
  • Registered with the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), ISACA, or another relevant professional body.
  • Valid Practicing License.
  • Leadership course lasting at least 4 weeks from a recognized institution.
• Skills:
  • Proficiency in computer applications (e.g., audit software, MS Office).
  • Strong leadership, analytical, and risk assessment skills.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
  • Knowledge of International Auditing Standards and Kenyan regulatory frameworks.
  • Commitment to Chapter Six requirements (KRA, DCI, HELB, CRB, EACC clearances).

Why Join

• Lead IPOA’s internal audit and risk management efforts, ensuring robust governance and accountability.
• Join IPOA Jobs to drive systemic improvements in police oversight.
• Contribute to public trust and professionalism in Kenya’s National Police Service.

2. PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATIONS OFFICER (IPOA 6, 3 Posts, IPOA/HR/09/2025)

Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Criminology, Law, Social Science, or related field
Experience: 9 years cumulative, with 3 years at Senior Investigations Officer level (IPOA 7 or equivalent)
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Field: Law / Legal
Apply: www.ipoa.go.ke/ipoa/careers

Job Purpose

The Principal Investigations Officer conducts and supervises investigations into complaints of police misconduct, ensuring thorough, impartial, and rapid responses as mandated by Sections 6, 7, 24, and 25 of the IPOA Act.

Key Responsibilities

• Investigation Management (40%):
  • Supervise the implementation of investigation strategies, policies, manuals, plans, standards, and procedures.
  • Coordinate investigations into police misconduct and recommend actions.
  • Participate in rapid response initiatives for urgent complaints.
  • Collect, collate, and analyze investigation data.
• Quality Assurance (20%):
  • Coordinate the implementation of quality assurance standards for investigations.
  • Conduct audits and reviews of all investigations.
  • Maintain and update the internal case tracking system.
• Evidence and Reporting (20%):
  • Gather and analyze evidence for investigations and forensics.
  • Provide reports on ongoing and completed investigations.
  • Facilitate the prosecution process in liaison with the division head.
• Stakeholder Engagement (10%):
  • Liaise with state organs and other institutions on police oversight issues.
  • Support registration and follow-up with external agencies.
• Team Leadership (10%):
  • Develop and implement team work plans and budgets.
  • Coach, mentor, and supervise staff.
  • Identify and mitigate risks in investigations.
• Safeguarding: Ensure compliance with IPOA’s safeguarding policies, report incidents, and promote participant safety.

Key Outputs/Deliverables

• Thorough and impartial investigation reports for IPOA.
• Compliant case tracking and quality assurance systems.
• Effective stakeholder coordination and prosecution support.
• Mentored staff and risk-mitigated investigation processes.

Qualifications and Skills

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Criminology, Law, Social Science, or a related field from a recognized institution.
  • Management course lasting at least 4 weeks from a recognized institution.
• Experience:
  • Cumulative 9 years of experience, with 3 years at Senior Investigations Officer (IPOA 7 or equivalent).
• Certifications and Memberships:
  • Membership in a relevant professional body (where applicable).
• Skills:
  • Proficiency in computer applications (e.g., case management systems, MS Office).
  • Strong investigative, analytical, and evidence-gathering skills.
  • Excellent leadership, mentoring, and communication abilities.
  • Knowledge of Kenyan laws, including the IPOA Act and criminal justice frameworks.
  • Commitment to Chapter Six requirements.

Why Join

• Lead critical investigations at IPOA, ensuring police accountability.
• Join IPOA Jobs to combat impunity and uphold justice.
• Contribute to public confidence in the National Police Service.

3. PRINCIPAL LEGAL OFFICER (IPOA 6, 1 Post, IPOA/HR/10/2025)

Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Law; Post Graduate Diploma in Law
Experience: 9 years cumulative, with 3 years at Senior Legal Officer level (IPOA 7 or equivalent)
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Field: Law / Legal
Apply: www.ipoa.go.ke/ipoa/careers

Job Purpose

The Principal Legal Officer coordinates legal services, provides guidance and opinions, and spearheads IPOA’s representation in complex legal, civil, and criminal court proceedings, ensuring compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Legal Representation and Policy (30%):
  • Supervise the implementation and review of legal policies, strategies, guidelines, and procedures.
  • Represent IPOA in complex legal, civil, criminal, and ADR proceedings.
  • Prepare pleadings and legal briefs for court filings.
• Legal Advice and Research (20%):
  • Provide legal advice and opinions on government regulations and IPOA matters.
  • Conduct research, legal assignments, and projects.
  • Review investigation files and recommend actions to the CEO.
• Case Management (20%):
  • Supervise and chair regional case review meetings on court matters.
  • Coordinate with the Complaints directorate on case statuses.
  • Peruse and analyze evidence in complex investigations for disciplinary recommendations.
• Stakeholder and Outreach (15%):
  • Engage external stakeholders on legal issues affecting IPOA.
  • Participate in outreach programs and legal aid clinics on constitutional matters.
  • Liaise with Preventive Services to audit National Police Service compliance.
• Team and Resource Management (15%):
  • Develop and monitor annual work plans and budgets.
  • Coach, mentor, and supervise staff.
  • Process and negotiate legal matters (contracts, leases, MOUs) for Board decisions.
• Safeguarding: Ensure compliance with IPOA’s safeguarding policies, report incidents, and promote a safe legal environment.

Key Outputs/Deliverables

• Effective legal representation and compliant legal frameworks for IPOA.
• Comprehensive legal opinions and investigation reviews.
• Successful stakeholder engagement and outreach programs.
• Mentored staff and efficient resource management.

Qualifications and Skills

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Law from a recognized institution.
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Law.
  • Management course lasting at least 4 weeks from a recognized institution.
• Experience:
  • Cumulative 9 years of experience, with 3 years at Senior Legal Officer (IPOA 7 or equivalent).
• Certifications and Memberships:
  • Registered as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
  • Member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK).
  • Valid Practicing License.
• Skills:
  • Proficiency in computer applications (e.g., legal research tools, MS Office).
  • Strong legal analysis, drafting, and advocacy skills.
  • Excellent leadership, mentoring, and stakeholder engagement abilities.
  • Knowledge of Kenyan constitutional law, criminal justice, and human rights standards.
  • Commitment to Chapter Six requirements.

Why Join

• Shape legal oversight at IPOA, ensuring justice and accountability.
• Join IPOA Jobs to lead high-impact legal proceedings.
• Contribute to constitutional compliance and public trust in policing.

4. INVESTIGATIONS OFFICER II (IPOA 9, 1 Post, IPOA/HR/11/2025)

Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Criminology, Law, Social Science, or related field
Experience: Entry-level position
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Field: Law / Legal
Apply: www.ipoa.go.ke/ipoa/careers

Job Purpose

The Investigations Officer II conducts investigations into complaints of police misconduct, supporting IPOA’s mandate under Sections 6, 7, 24, and 25 of the IPOA Act to ensure accountability and professionalism.

Key Responsibilities

• Investigation Support (50%):
  • Conduct investigations into police misconduct complaints.
  • Gather evidence and analyze information for investigations and forensics.
  • Support rapid response initiatives for urgent complaints.
• Case Management (20%):
  • Update and maintain the internal case tracking system.
  • Support the implementation of quality assurance standards for investigations.
  • Update and maintain records of cases received and investigated by IPOA and IAU.
• Reporting (15%):
  • Draft reports to inform investigations.
  • Provide data to facilitate publication of investigation findings.
  • Develop periodic individual performance reports.
• Prosecution Support (10%):
  • Support the prosecution process in liaison with the division head.
• Risk Management (5%):
  • Implement risk mitigation measures in investigations.
• Safeguarding: Ensure compliance with IPOA’s safeguarding policies, report incidents, and promote participant safety.

Key Outputs/Deliverables

• Accurate investigation reports and evidence for IPOA.
• Updated case tracking and quality assurance systems.
• Supported prosecution processes and risk-mitigated investigations.
• Compliant safeguarding practices.

Qualifications and Skills

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Criminology, Law, Social Science, or a related field from a recognized institution.
• Experience:
  • Entry-level position; no prior experience required.
• Certifications and Memberships:
  • Membership in a relevant professional body (where applicable).
• Skills:
  • Proficiency in computer applications (e.g., case management systems, MS Office).
  • Strong investigative and analytical skills.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Knowledge of Kenyan laws, including the IPOA Act and criminal justice frameworks.
  • Commitment to Chapter Six requirements.

Why Join

• Launch your career at IPOA, investigating police misconduct to uphold justice.
• Join IPOA Jobs to gain hands-on experience in civilian oversight.
• Contribute to enhancing professionalism in the National Police Service.

Why Join IPOA?

IPOA Jobs offer a unique opportunity to contribute to civilian oversight of the National Police Service, ensuring accountability, justice, and public trust. Professionals joining IPOA will:

• Drive Police Accountability: Lead investigations, audits, and legal actions to combat impunity.
• Promote Public Trust: Enhance confidence in the National Police Service through impartial oversight.
• Work in a Dynamic Environment: Engage in high-impact roles in audit, investigations, and legal services.
• Advance Career Growth: Benefit from mentorship, capacity building, and leadership opportunities.
• Contribute to National Goals: Align with Kenya’s Vision 2030 and constitutional mandates for governance and human rights.

About Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA)

Established under the Independent Policing Oversight Authority Act Cap. 86 in November 2011, IPOA is headquartered at ACK Garden Annex, 2nd Floor, 1st Ngong Avenue, P.O. Box 23035-00100, Nairobi, Kenya. Since its inaugural Board was sworn in June 2012, IPOA has been a cornerstone of civilian oversight, conducting investigations, inspections, audits, and monitoring to ensure the National Police Service operates with professionalism and accountability. IPOA’s work aligns with Kenya’s constitutional framework, particularly Chapter Six on Leadership and Integrity, and supports the nation’s commitment to human rights and good governance.

Commitment to Civilian Oversight

IPOA’s core mandate is to investigate complaints against police officers, monitor police operations, and recommend disciplinary or legal actions, fostering a culture of accountability.

Impact in Kenya

Through its investigations and oversight, IPOA has strengthened public trust in policing, addressing issues like police misconduct, excessive force, and human rights violations. IPOA Jobs are integral to sustaining this impact.

Inclusive and Ethical Culture

IPOA fosters an inclusive workplace, prohibiting discrimination and prioritizing safeguarding. The Authority encourages applications from women, persons living with disabilities, and candidates from marginalized communities to ensure diverse representation in IPOA Jobs.

Tips for a Successful Application

To excel in applying for these IPOA Jobs, consider the following expert strategies:

• Tailor Your Application: Align your CV and cover letter with the specific role (e.g., audit expertise for Senior Assistant Director, investigative skills for Principal Investigations Officer). Highlight qualifications and experience relevant to IPOA’s mandate.
• Demonstrate Relevant Expertise: Showcase measurable achievements (e.g., “Conducted 20+ audits with 95% compliance” or “Investigated 15+ cases of misconduct”).
• Ensure Professional Submission: Submit all documents (CV, cover letter, certified certificates, clearances) in PDF format via the careers portal, clearly stating the position and reference number (e.g., IPOA/HR/08/2025).
• Meet Chapter Six Requirements: Obtain and attach KRA, DCI, HELB, CRB, and EACC clearances or proof of application to demonstrate compliance.
• Apply Early: Submit by midnight on October 17, 2025, to account for high application volumes and ensure consideration.
• Highlight Safeguarding Commitment: Emphasize your dedication to ethical practices and participant safety, aligning with IPOA’s safeguarding policies.
• Verify Professional Credentials: Ensure certifications (e.g., CPA, Advocate of the High Court) and memberships (e.g., ICPAK, LSK) are valid and documented.

Method of Application

Interested candidates must submit applications online via IPOA’s careers portal at www.ipoa.go.ke/ipoa/careers by midnight on Tuesday, October 17, 2025. Applications should include:

• Cover Letter specifying the position and job reference number (e.g., “Application: Senior Assistant Director, Internal Audit and Risk – IPOA/HR/08/2025”).
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae highlighting relevant experience and achievements.
• Certified copies of academic and professional certificates.
• Testimonials from previous employers or referees.
• Supporting documents, including clearance certificates or proof of application for KRA, DCI, HELB, CRB, and EACC.

Hand-delivered or emailed applications will not be accepted. Shortlisted candidates must present original documents during interviews. Monitor email (including spam/junk folders) for updates from IPOA. Verify all communications through the official website and report suspicious activity to the authorities.

Application Links:

• Senior Assistant Director, Internal Audit and Risk (IPOA/HR/08/2025): Apply Here
• Principal Investigations Officer (IPOA/HR/09/2025): Apply Here
• Principal Legal Officer (IPOA/HR/10/2025): Apply Here
• Investigations Officer II (IPOA/HR/11/2025): Apply Here

Sources:

• Job details: IPOA job advertisement, received September 23, 2025.
• Additional context: www.ipoa.go.ke, accessed September 23, 2025.

Note: Apply by midnight on October 17, 2025, via www.ipoa.go.ke/ipoa/careers to join IPOA’s mission to ensure police accountability, professionalism, and public trust in Kenya’s National Police Service.

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