Job description
Want to join the UK and Irish Airport of the Year?
We are very excited to invite applications for Permanent Security Officers to join our Security Team as we prepare to implement the Next Generation Security Checkpoint at the Airport.
In particular, we would like to hear from those wishing to develop and utilise the technical skills required to operate the most advanced security equipment that keeps our passengers, aircraft and Airport safe and secure.
The Airport offers a fantastic and rewarding working environment, being recently recognised as the ‘UK and Irish Airport of the Year’, in part due to the incredible service provided to our customers by our Security Team, and in return we offer a competitive annual salary.
Moreover, you will be trained and equipped with a broad set of technical skills and certified as a Ground Security Operator, allowing you to undertake a range of responsibilities within the aviation security function.
About the role
Aviation Security Officers ensure the safety and security of passengers, the public and aircraft, primarily through the delivery of efficient security screening processes of people and goods entering security restricted areas of the airport. An industry recognised and accredited qualification as a Ground Security Operative (GSO) is awarded upon successful completion of the GSO training course, and opens up a development pathway to a rewarding career at a successful international airport.
The Next Generation Security Checkpoint is a major security and infrastructure project being undertaken by the Airport and is expected to complete by early 2024. In addition to delivering a major refurbishment project to our passenger screening area that will greatly improve aesthetics, we will be introducing;
- new screening equipment, including Computerised Tomography (CT) X-ray machines capable of identifying advanced explosive threats in cabin bags,
- the most up do date body scanners able to identify security threats concealed on a person.
Our Security Officers reflect a very diverse workforce, bringing an enormous variety of backgrounds and other previous experiences to the role, with the majority of our team having no previous experience in a security or uniformed services role prior to joining the Airport.
There is no requirement to have previous security experience as full training will be provided, and we encourage applications from those who are able to demonstrate the key behaviours required of a Security Officer, and wish to develop a professional career within security and the aviation sector. In particular we would welcome applications from those who are customer focused, positive, proactive and who are able to work as part of a team.
This role is a fantastic opportunity to play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of the Airport operations. The successful candidate will also be delivering an outstanding customer service whilst working alongside other Business Partners of the Airport.
What does the training and shifts involve?
Successful applicants will be enrolled on a three week GSO training programme that will provide an in depth knowledge of the role and equip you with the necessary skills to be effective and confident in the role.
The first two weeks of the course is typically classroom based with practical training in all aspects of the job, including operating technical security equipment and performing physical screening processes.
The third week will see you undertaking On the Job Training, supported at all times by Security Trainers and experienced and friendly mentors as you underpin all theory based training with hands on experience.
Upon completion of the three weeks training you will be awarded the Ground Security Operative qualification and able to commence your career and continue to develop your skills and capability alongside your peers and a dedicated team of friendly and experienced supervisors to assist you.
Shifts and working hours are allocated according to the needs of the airport, with hours typically worked over a three on three off shift pattern to meet our busiest times whilst ensuring adequate rest.
Some shifts may start before public transport times during the early hours and applicants without regular access to a vehicle or other means of transport should consider this carefully. However, many of our colleagues do consider this a welcome aspect of the role, allowing them to undertake enjoyable work whilst managing other commitments, for example around family demands or second jobs.
Who we are looking for
This role would suit candidates who have a keen eye for detail and have proven experience of being organised and driven. As this role is supporting our customers’ journeys, previous customer experience would also be advantageous.
The successful applicant should share our values: ‘Be Safe’ ‘Be Positive’ ‘Be Customer Focussed’ and ‘Be Part of the Team’.
Furthermore, with advances in modern technology we require technically competent colleagues, able to apply sound judgment and analysis, and make effective decisions within a complex operation.
Why come onboard?
- Competitive remuneration structure
- Genuine career progression and development pathways
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Subsidised private healthcare
- Access to contributory pension scheme
- Company and Performance related bonus scheme
- On-site occupational health support
- On-site physiotherapist
- Employee assistance support
- Employee discounts at airport Park & Fly /retail / catering outlets
- Free on-site car parking whilst at work
- Subsidised membership to our on-site gym
Final call for permanent Security Officers!
We intend to deliver our next GSO course in June. We hope that this suits those wishing to explore a career change, and we look forward to receiving applications from those wishing to embark on a rewarding and challenging new career within our Security Department.
This post requires access through the Critical Part at the Airport and therefore in line with Department for Transport regulations; you will be required to demonstrate during the recruitment process, that you have no relevant criminal record.
Newcastle Airport Limited promotes the equality of opportunity.