About this role
Check all associated application documentation thoroughly before clicking on the apply button at the bottom of this description.
Working pattern: Full-time, permanent, average 40.25 hours per week. Shifts cover days and nights, including weekends and bank holidays.
Start date: 1 December 2026
We are the independent charity that loves and looks after six of the most wonderful palaces in the world. The palaces are the setting for the stories that shape us all, and we’re bringing them to people in ways that mean more to them. We want everyone to find themselves in the spaces and stories we share.
We are a team of people who love and look after six of the most wonderful palaces in the world. We create space for spirits to stir and be stirred. We currently have an exciting opportunity to join our Operations Team at Kensington Palace as a Cover Security Officer.
As a Security Officer your role will be to support the security team in making Kensington Palace a safe and secure place to visit and work
Tasks will include the traditional elements of access control, patrolling, maintaining shift log records, monitoring CCTV, monitoring life safety systems, opening and closing the estate and being ready to assist our visitors in any way that helps them enjoy an unforgettable experience.
As the role is a support role the shift pattern involves working both day and night shifts, and the pattern as a cover officer is on an ad-hoc basis.
Core shift hours are 07:00-19:00 (days) and 19:00-07:00 (nights), on a 4 on / 4 off pattern.
You will ideally be someone who has worked in a Security Control Room environment before, preferably in either heritage or corporate environments and is comfortable using technical systems and MS Office (Word and Excel).
This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of Kensington Palace’s 300-year history and help us to bring our fascinating stories to life for our guests, every day.
How to apply
Apply with your CV and a cover letter. Interviews are planned for the week commencing 19 October.
Additional information
Historic Royal Palaces is an equal opportunities employer and values a diverse workforce. Applications are welcome from candidates of all backgrounds.
We are committed to high quality safeguarding practice and to keeping everyone safe in our palaces. We have procedures in place to deliver this and will deal firmly and swiftly with anyone representing our charity who does not meet our required standards.
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About security roles for ex-police
Security management, operations and consultancy roles. Years of operational policing — command, incident response, public order — translate directly into corporate security, and employers in this sector actively rate police experience.
See all security jobs in London →Why this fits a police background — match score 75/100
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What security roles pay ex-police
Advertised UK ranges, editorial estimates reviewed July 2026
| Security officer (SIA) | £24,000–£29,000 |
| Security supervisor / team leader | £28,000–£34,000 |
| Site / security manager | £38,000–£52,000 |
| Regional / operations security manager | £50,000–£65,000 |