MGS - Ministry of Defence Guard Service - Security Officer Shift Worker - HMNB Portsmouth

Ministry Of Defence; Camden Town; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A national security organization is hiring Security Officers to safeguard its facilities across the UK. The role includes conducting patrols, monitoring access, and ensuring site safety. Candidates should have a background in security or public safety, strong communication skills, and the ability to work flexible shifts. A competitive salary of £31,500 with benefits such as a pension and development opportunities is offered.

Benefits

Civil Service pension

Generous annual leave

Access to development programs

Qualifications

• Experience in security or public safety roles is preferred.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
• Able to respond effectively to emergencies and incidents.

Responsibilities

• Ensure site safety and security.
• Conduct patrols to monitor compliance.
• Control access by checking credentials.

Skills

Security protocols

Customer service

Risk management

Surveillance systems

Job description

Overview

At the Ministry of Defence Guard Service (MGS), we safeguard the UK's Defence estate, protecting personnel, assets, and critical locations from crime, terrorism, espionage, and sabotage. Our Gold Standard Security Service is built on professionalism, trust, and excellence—and we're looking for dedicated Security Officers to join us.

Responsibilities

• Ensure site safety and security - Protect Defence personnel, visitors, and property.
• Conduct patrols - Monitor designated areas on foot or by vehicle, ensuring compliance with security protocols.
• Control access - Check credentials, issue passes, and escort visitors as required.
• Perform searches - Conduct thorough security checks on vehicles, baggage, and personnel.
• Respond to incidents - Identify risks, manage security breaches, and escalate as needed.
• Assist employees and visitors - Provide professional and courteous support on-site.
• Monitor security systems - Operate CCTV, alarms, and communication devices.
• Manage traffic and parking - Control vehicle movement and ensure safe site access.
• Report and document - Maintain security logs and complete detailed incident reports.

Shift Pattern

This is a shift-working position at 48 hours per week including breaks. The successful candidate will be expected to work nights, weekends, bank holidays etc as stipulated by the shift pattern agreed at the Unit depending on site requirements. This will be an average of 48 hours in a calendar week, with 12 hour shifts each week rostered between Sun - Sat. Shifts may be rostered in a flexible manner within the shift roster, with working days and shifts stipulated in advance but may change at short notice (no less than 48 hours). The exact shift pattern will be explained in full during the interview.

Training & Development

We are committed to ensuring you have the skills and confidence to succeed in your role. New starters will complete a mandatory two-week residential Foundation Course, followed by structured on-the-job training. You will have access to ongoing professional development, including an annual programme of online learning. Our dedicated Workforce Development Team will support your training needs, ensuring you continue to build expertise throughout your career.

Additional Information

For more information about MGS, please see Defence Infrastructure Organisations YouTube page and related resources. If you need to contact Defence Business Services (DBS) regarding this vacancy, please indicate that your vacancy is being handled by Resourcing Team 1. Technical difficulties with the CS Jobs system should be directed to the Support Team at [e-mail].

Selection Criteria

We will assess you against these behaviours during the selection process: Working Together, Managing a Quality Service, Communicating and Influencing. At application, you will be assessed on experience (CV including job history and skills). At interview, you will be assessed on behaviours (the three listed above). When providing behaviour examples, use real-life scenarios relevant to your own experiences. Do not rely on ideas generated by others or by technology.

Application Timeline

Application sifting is scheduled to take place week commencing 06/10/25. Interviews are due to take place via Microsoft Teams week commencing 20/10/25. Please note these dates are subject to change. Applicants may be placed on an active reserve list for 12 months; similar lower-graded roles may be offered to reserve candidates, or to those meeting lower grade criteria in merit order if no reserves are appointed.

Security & Eligibility

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check and meet security requirements before appointment. See our vetting charter. Nationality requirements apply for working with government assets, including UK and certain overseas statuses. Pre-employment checks will be carried out. There is no relocation assistance offered for this post. The Civil Service Code and equal opportunity commitments apply to all applicants.

Benefits

Salary: £31,500 with a Civil Service pension contribution of £9,125. Benefits include Civil Service pension, generous annual leave, personal and professional development, and various other benefits via the Discover My Benefits platform. Some sites offer travel links, parking, and facilities such as gyms and cafeterias. A full list of benefits is available on the Discover My Benefits site.