One of the world's largest Libraries based in St Pancras, London is in need of Reading Room Security Guards on an initial Temporary basis to work onsite on a full-time basis until May 2022

Location: St Pancras, London
Duration: May 22
Shift Times: Work 2 short  (9.00 to 17.10) and 2 long  (9.00 to 20.10) shifts each week, Monday to Saturday with a day off in the week and Sunday off. Approx 40 hours per week 

SIA is not required for this role but would be advantageous

Job purpose:

Play an active role in the overall operation of the St Pancras Reading Rooms, working both within and across teams to ensure high standards of customer service.

To protect the national collection from theft, damage, or loss and to provide a secure environment for Readers, visitors, and staff in the St Pancras Reading Rooms.

As the first point of contact for all Reading Room users, deliver a high standard of customer service, demonstrating the Library’s core values at all times.

Main tasks

 
Expected to demonstrate a willingness to take on a range of tasks and to develop new skills, as appropriate, in own or other departments/directorates to support the delivery of the Library's services as required by line management.
 
Present a polite, positive, and professional image at all times in order to deliver a high standard of customer service, demonstrating the Library’s core values at all times.
 
Control access to the Reading Rooms to ensure only authorized individuals, Registered Readers, and objects are permitted entry, and ensure that members of the public do not gain entry unless authorized and escorted by a member of staff.

Ensure that all property of a Reader is examined upon leaving a Reading Room to make sure that collection materials are not removed.

Provide basic general information to Readers and visitors regarding Reading Room services and location of facilities in the building and assist with problems such as lost property in accordance with procedures.

Monitor the activities of Readers and visitors in Reading Rooms to ensure that they comply with the Reading Room condition of use dealing with those who breach or attempt to breach them in accordance with incident handling and reporting procedures, providing explanations of the reasons for regulations and referring these situations to a manager when necessary.  Where required, support Reading Room staff in dealing with incidents.

Advise Readers who may be exposing themselves to criminal opportunity, e.g. by leaving handbags insecure.

Minimum requirements (essential)

Proven customer service experience
Ability to work calmly and professionally under pressure
Excellent observational skills
Ability to work on own initiative and independently
Ability to work constructively within a team displaying support and flexibility


Additional Information on the Shift: 

This role incorporates a Monday to Saturday Reading Room Security operation, which will require the post holder to adhere strictly to a shift rota. The shift rota will require the post holder to work 4 days a week that will incorporate 2 x 11½ hour shift and 2 x 8½ hour shift. British Library uniform is provided and is required to be worn at all times whilst on duty. Security Officers are responsible for maintaining a high standard of personal presentation and therefore are responsible for maintaining their uniform in a presentable state

Security Officers are expected to understand the importance of being punctual and reliable and the impact this has on the effectiveness of the team.  They will also need to have a flexible approach to working hours and allocated break times.

Security Officers are often required to patrol for very long periods and to remain on their post until relieved to maintain a continuous security operation.