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Waking Watch Security Officer

Vanquish Expert Solutions Grouo Ltd · London, Greater London

Type
Contract
Posted
24 days ago

Overview

Your patrol and observation skills from policing directly apply to fire safety monitoring and emergency response.

About this role

MBC Security Ltd is looking to recruit professional and reliable Waking Watch Security Officers to join our team at a high-rise residential development in Sutton.

The position will initially be offered on a 6-month contract, which will be reviewed every six months and may be extended depending on the ongoing Waking Watch and fire safety requirements of the building.

Officers will work a 4 on, 4 off rotating shift pattern, covering a 12-hour shift pattern on days and night shifts, covering 365 days of the year.

This is a fire-safety-focused role where you will be responsible for carrying out regular patrols of the development, remaining alert to any signs of fire, smoke or other potential hazards, and taking immediate action in accordance with the site's emergency and evacuation procedures.

The role requires someone who is vigilant, dependable and confident communicating with residents, site management, other security personnel and the emergency services when required.

Key Responsibilities

Your duties will include

  • Carrying out regular internal and external Waking Watch patrols throughout your shift.
  • Monitoring the building for signs of fire, smoke, burning smells or other potential fire hazards.
  • Checking communal areas, stairwells, escape routes and fire doors during patrols.
  • Remaining vigilant to anything that could affect the fire safety of residents or the building.
  • Following the site's fire and emergency procedures at all times.
  • Assisting with the evacuation of residents if required.
  • Immediately raising the alarm and contacting the appropriate emergency services where necessary.
  • Communicating effectively with the Main Estate Security team and site management.
  • Completing scheduled check calls throughout the shift.
  • Accurately recording all patrols, incidents, observations and actions within the Daily Occurrence Book (DOB).
  • Completing a full handover to the incoming Waking Watch Officer.
  • Following all Assignment Instructions, company procedures and site-specific requirements.
  • Maintaining a professional, visible and approachable presence while on duty.

Essential Requirements

Applicants must

  • Hold a valid SIA Security Guarding or Door Supervisor Licence.
  • Ideally hold Level 2 qualification for Fire Safety
  • Have good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Be able to complete clear and accurate written records.
  • Be reliable, punctual and able to remain alert throughout a 12-hour shift.
  • Be comfortable working within a high-rise residential environment.
  • Be able to follow detailed emergency and evacuation procedures.
  • Be confident dealing with residents and members of the public in a calm and professional manner.
  • Be able to work both independently and as part of a wider security team.
  • Be available to work a mixture of day, night and weekend shifts as required.

Previous Waking Watch fire safety security experience would be advantageous; however, site-specific training will be provided.

Training

Successful applicants will receive a full site induction and training on the site's Waking Watch procedures, including patrol requirements, fire procedures, evacuation arrangements, incident reporting and Daily Occurrence Book requirements.

Additional fire safety training will also be provided as required for the role.

To apply, please submit your CV through Indeed. Suitable applicants will be contacted to discuss the position and availability.

Employment will be subject to satisfactory screening and vetting, confirmation of your right to work in the UK and verification of your SIA licence.

Pay: £14.80 per hour

Expected hours: 12.0 – 48.0 per week

Experience

  • Waking watch security: 3 years (preferred)

Licence/Certification

  • SIA Licence (required)
  • Level 2 Fire Safety Certification (preferred)

Work authorisation

  • United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person

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

  • Protection & firearms
  • Multi-agency & police liaison
  • Security operations

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
Full security salary guide →

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