Ministry of Defence Guard Service Security Officer - Shift Worker at DTE Swynnerton

About the Role

Join the Ministry of Defence Guard Service (MGS) and be a vital part of safeguarding the UK's most sensitive Defence locations. MGS is responsible for protecting Defence personnel, assets, and estates across more than 170 MOD sites, including prominent sites such as the MOD Main Building in London and key Naval Bases.

This role offers a meaningful career contributing directly to national security, with opportunities for professional growth through funded training and qualifications within a supportive team environment that values integrity, professionalism, and teamwork.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Maintain safety and security of Defence sites by protecting personnel, visitors, and assets.
• Conduct foot and vehicle patrols to monitor compliance with security protocols.
• Manage site access by verifying credentials, issuing passes, and escorting visitors as necessary.
• Carry out thorough searches of vehicles, baggage, and individuals to prevent unauthorized access.
• Identify and respond to security incidents, escalating issues when necessary.
• Support employees and visitors with courteous assistance on-site.
• Operate security equipment including CCTV, alarms, and communication tools.
• Oversee vehicle movement and parking to ensure site safety.
• Log security activities and prepare detailed incident reports.

Working Hours and Shift Pattern

This position requires shift work averaging 48 hours per week, including breaks. Shifts are typically 12 hours long, scheduled between Sunday and Saturday, with flexibility including nights, weekends, bank holidays, and occasional short-notice changes with not less than 48 hours' notice.

Training and Development

New employees complete a mandatory two-week residential Foundation Course covering essential skills including Emergency First Aid at Work, followed by on-the-job training. Continuous professional development is provided through an annual online learning program with dedicated support from the Workforce Development Team.

Candidate Profile

Ideal candidates come from diverse backgrounds, such as security, military, retail, hospitality, care, logistics, teaching, or customer service. No previous security experience is required as full training and uniforms are supplied.

Candidates should demonstrate reliability, clear communication skills, teamwork, attentiveness to detail, adaptability, professionalism, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

Additional Information

• The role demands physical fitness due to patrolling, prolonged standing, and constant alertness.
• Salary is £32,530 per year, with an additional MOD contribution of £9,423 toward the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension.
• Benefits include a Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 28.97%, generous annual leave with carry-over options, special paid leave for volunteering and reserve commitments, enhanced parental leave, employee assistance programs, and access to recreational facilities at many sites.
• Free car parking is available, with many sites offering sports clubs, gyms, cafeterias, and shops.
• Applicants may be placed on a reserve list for 12 months and could be considered for similar lower-graded roles based on merit.
• The MOD is committed to diversity, equality, and operates a Disability Confident Scheme.
• Applicants are reminded that all application content should be authentic; misuse of AI or plagiarism could lead to withdrawal.

Selection Process

Candidates will be assessed on their CV demonstrating relevant experience and skills, followed by an interview evaluating behaviours such as teamwork, quality service management, and communication. Interview dates and application timelines will be confirmed, with some dates subject to change.