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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle and process mail securely and efficiently for the UK armed forces.
- Company: Join the British Forces Postal Office, a trusted name in Defence services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a London allowance, training opportunities, and potential for permanent employment.
- Why this job: Gain valuable skills, work in a supportive team, and contribute to a vital service.
- Qualifications: Basic IT knowledge, physical stamina, teamwork, and customer service experience required.
- Other info: Fixed-term role with a chance to go permanent after 23 months.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 33600 £ per year.
Job Description
Join us at the British Forces Postal Office (BFPO) and take the first step towards a rewarding career. The BFPO provides postal and courier services to the UK armed forces and is a renowned brand across Defence. You will be based in our purpose-built headquarters at RAF Northolt, where we will provide all the training required to develop your skill set and gain the experience necessary to excel in your role.
As a Postal and Mail Operative, you will assist with the secure, safe, and timely handling of armed forces’ mail. This includes ensuring the accurate receipt, sorting, and dispatching of all types of mail in a secure, logical, and methodical manner. Your daily tasks will involve both physical and desk-based work, such as data inputting, sorting, and processing mail, and loading vehicles for dispatch.
This role will enhance your experience with cargo X-ray machines and provide opportunities to acquire skills and qualifications, including Civil Aviation Authority Air Cargo Security training. You will be part of a large, dedicated team with many opportunities for progression and development within the team and the wider organisation.
You will also perform Mail Guard Duties, which include travelling to our site at RAF Brize Norton and other locations. These duties are physically demanding and involve loading and unloading, manual handling, and standing for extended periods at both ends.
When not travelling This position is 100% site-based in the Defence Postal Services (DPS) at RAF Northolt, with working hours of Monday to Friday, 07:00 – 15:00. Due to the location, this role also offers a London allowance of £3,300 per annum.
This is a fixed-term role with the potential to become permanent at the end of the 23-month contract.
What you’ll be doing
- Undertaking mail security screening procedures and once trained become an X-Ray machine operator, this will require successful completion and retention of the Digital National X-Ray Competency Test (DNXCT).
- Maintaining workplace safety standards, responsible for your own safety and the safety of your colleagues.
- Using a combination of bespoke IT, handheld, and manual systems, creating and maintaining mail dispatch schedules following correct consignment and regulatory processes.
- Acting as the Mail Guard completing timely delivery of mail in accordance with instructions and security regulations.
- Ensuring accurate and secure redirection, location, trace, and personal verification of mail using both computer and local systems.
- Using manual handling equipment, with the ability to lift mail items up to 11kg unaided, 30kg assisted, and working collaboratively with others to move heavier items.
- Always adhering to all BFPO and Civil Aviation Authority Security requirements and maintain the security of BFPO mail. You will be required to adhere to personal security arrangements, complete annual security training and will be required to carry appropriate issued ID whilst at work.
- Take reasonable care for the health and safety of others that may be affected by their acts or omissions at work, and to observe best practice and compliance with legislation in the protection of the environment and the conservation of energy.
Person specification
To be successful with your application, you’ll need to show that you meet the following essential criteria:
- General knowledge of IT Systems and Microsoft Office applications with experience of data entry and processing.
- Recent evidence of working in a physically demanding role.
- Ability to work under pressure, at pace and to tight schedules.
- Evidence of working independently and as part of a team.
- Experience of a strong customer focus, and stakeholder engagement.
In addition to the responsibilities above, the following technical competences and behaviours will be assessed at interview:
- Core Behaviour 1: Delivering at pace – CSBC1.
- Core Behaviour 2: Working together – CSBC1.
- Technical Competence 1: Customer Service – Awareness.
- Technical Competence 2: Making evidence-based decisions – Awareness.
Postal and Mail Operative employer: Reed Talent Solutions
Contact Detail:
Reed Talent Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postal and Mail Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of a Postal and Mail Operative. Understanding the role's requirements, such as mail security screening and manual handling, will help you demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in physically demanding roles or environments. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed similar tasks, as this will show your capability to handle the physical aspects of the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of how you've worked effectively under pressure and met tight deadlines. This is crucial for the role, so having specific instances ready will help you stand out during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your teamwork skills by sharing experiences where you've collaborated with others to achieve a common goal. The ability to work well in a team is essential for this position, so make sure to emphasise this in your discussions.
We think you need these skills to ace Postal and Mail Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Postal and Mail Operative position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these specific duties.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise any previous experience in physically demanding roles or customer service. Provide examples that demonstrate your ability to work under pressure and as part of a team, as these are key aspects of the job.
Showcase IT Skills: Since the role requires knowledge of IT systems and Microsoft Office applications, make sure to mention any relevant experience you have with data entry and processing. Include specific software you are familiar with to strengthen your application.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that not only summarises your CV but also expresses your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Mention your understanding of the importance of mail security and your commitment to maintaining safety standards.
How to prepare for a job interview at Reed Talent Solutions
✨Show Your Physical Readiness
Since the role involves physically demanding tasks, be prepared to discuss your experience in similar roles. Highlight any relevant physical work you've done and how you manage to stay fit and healthy.
✨Demonstrate IT Proficiency
Make sure to showcase your knowledge of IT systems and Microsoft Office applications. Be ready to provide examples of how you've used these tools in previous jobs, especially for data entry and processing.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Independence
The job requires both teamwork and the ability to work independently. Prepare examples that illustrate your experience in both areas, showing how you can collaborate effectively while also taking initiative when needed.
✨Understand Security Protocols
Familiarise yourself with the security requirements related to mail handling. Be ready to discuss how you would ensure compliance with BFPO and Civil Aviation Authority security regulations, as this is a critical aspect of the role.
