Operational Technician (Banknotes)
Operational Technician (Banknotes)

Operational Technician (Banknotes)

Loughton Full-Time 26280 - 29280 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Bank of England

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support a diverse team in developing and maintaining banknote security features and technical projects.
  • Company: Join the Bank of England, the sole issuer of banknotes in England and Wales.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible benefits, and 26 days of annual leave.
  • Why this job: Be part of a vital public role ensuring confidence in currency while gaining hands-on experience.
  • Qualifications: A-level/BTEC in Science, Engineering or Maths; good IT and maths skills required.
  • Other info: This is a full-time, on-site role in Debden, Essex, with a focus on teamwork and innovation.

The predicted salary is between 26280 - 29280 ÂŁ per year.

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This range is provided by Bank of England. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

Operational Technician (Banknotes)
Scale H
Permanent, full-time
Location: Debden, Essex (5-days per week on-site)

Department Overview

The Notes Directorate fulfils the Bank\’s obligations as the sole issuer of banknotes in England and Wales. With staff across Head Office, Debden and Leeds, we rely on expertise in fields as diverse as economic and quantitative modelling, risk analysis, operations, sustainability, and science. In fulfilling this important and highly visible public role, in maintaining confidence in the currency, it is important that we ensure:

  • The right note – the public has access to genuine, high-quality banknotes of a range of denominations
  • The right place – a well-run cash industry exists to supply banknotes cost effectively across the country
  • The right time – the Note Circulation Scheme ensures peaks in public banknote demand e.g. Christmas are met consistently

In addition to our role in relation to Bank of England notes, Notes Directorate fulfils the Bank\’s statutory responsibility to ensure public confidence in banknotes issued by Scottish and Northern Ireland banks.

Team Overview

The Banknote Security and Design (BSD) team is based within Notes Operations at our Debden Cash Centre in Essex. The team comprises a diverse mixture of technical specialists in the fields of design, science and engineering that supports:

  • Pioneering design and development of banknote security features
  • Banknote product design for the next generation of banknotes
  • Technical support for the continued manufacturing and quality control of existing banknotes
  • High speed fitness sorting of banknotes and end of life destruction of banknotes and secure materials
  • Counterfeit threat assessment and support for law enforcement
  • A framework for the testing the efficacy of automatic cash handling machines

The team works collaboratively with its contracted supplier of banknotes, specialists and technical suppliers from around the globe, academia, other Central Banks, law enforcement agencies, such as the National Crime Agency and banknote equipment manufacturers.

Job Description

As an Operational Technician in BSD, you will support our diverse team of technical experts. You will develop specialist knowledge of science and engineering by assisting with the delivery of technical projects that underpin the production of our current, and future generations of banknotes. This may include contributing to the assessment of new security features, assisting with the development of new hardware, and helping to troubleshoot technical problems. You will be required to methodically collect data and perform rudimentary analysis for dissemination to the wider team. Maintaining core facilities and equipment will fall under your remit, including organising visits from external specialists, alongside administrative duties in preparing banknotes, receiving deliveries and producing written records.

Role Requirements

  • A-level / BTEC level 3-5 qualifications in Science, Engineering or Maths
  • Proficient maths skills (Equivalent of GCSE Maths Grade 4/C or above)
  • Good IT skills with experience with MS Office applications
  • Knowledge of fundamental principles in Science, Engineering or Maths and the confidence to apply them with guidance from technical experts.
  • Fine attention to detail and the ability to accurately capture data and to perform rudimentary analysis including calculating averages, standard deviations and plotting graphs.
  • Versatility and confidence in communicating and collaborating with a range of technical experts.
  • The ability to methodically follow process instructions and to work in accordance with a technical plan or design of experiments that has been agreed in advance.
  • To ensure that all activities remain secure, safe and efficient and that all risk assessments have been read, understood, and are always followed.
  • Forward planning and time management skills to assist in maintaining core facilities and assets for the timely delivery of projects.
  • The ability to capture key details and produce excellent written records of projects, presentations and meetings.
  • Experience in secure printing or previous experience in a STEM-related role
  • Knowledge of good working practises inline with UK Health and Safety regulations. Experience in the safe handling of chemicals, electrical or mechanical equipment would be advantageous.

Please note this role is based at the print works in Debden Essex and requires on-site attendance 5 days per week.

Operational Technician (Banknotes)
Scale H
Permanent, full-time
Location: Debden, Essex (5-days per week on-site)

Department Overview

The Notes Directorate fulfils the Bank\’s obligations as the sole issuer of banknotes in England and Wales. With staff across Head Office, Debden and Leeds, we rely on expertise in fields as diverse as economic and quantitative modelling, risk analysis, operations, sustainability, and science. In fulfilling this important and highly visible public role, in maintaining confidence in the currency, it is important that we ensure:

  • The right note – the public has access to genuine, high-quality banknotes of a range of denominations
  • The right place – a well-run cash industry exists to supply banknotes cost effectively across the country
  • The right time – the Note Circulation Scheme ensures peaks in public banknote demand e.g. Christmas are met consistently

In addition to our role in relation to Bank of England notes, Notes Directorate fulfils the Bank\’s statutory responsibility to ensure public confidence in banknotes issued by Scottish and Northern Ireland banks.

Team Overview

The Banknote Security and Design (BSD) team is based within Notes Operations at our Debden Cash Centre in Essex. The team comprises a diverse mixture of technical specialists in the fields of design, science and engineering that supports:

  • Pioneering design and development of banknote security features
  • Banknote product design for the next generation of banknotes
  • Technical support for the continued manufacturing and quality control of existing banknotes
  • High speed fitness sorting of banknotes and end of life destruction of banknotes and secure materials
  • Counterfeit threat assessment and support for law enforcement
  • A framework for the testing the efficacy of automatic cash handling machines

The team works collaboratively with its contracted supplier of banknotes, specialists and technical suppliers from around the globe, academia, other Central Banks, law enforcement agencies, such as the National Crime Agency and banknote equipment manufacturers.

Job Description

As an Operational Technician in BSD, you will support our diverse team of technical experts. You will develop specialist knowledge of science and engineering by assisting with the delivery of technical projects that underpin the production of our current, and future generations of banknotes. This may include contributing to the assessment of new security features, assisting with the development of new hardware, and helping to troubleshoot technical problems. You will be required to methodically collect data and perform rudimentary analysis for dissemination to the wider team. Maintaining core facilities and equipment will fall under your remit, including organising visits from external specialists, alongside administrative duties in preparing banknotes, receiving deliveries and producing written records.

Role Requirements

Minimum Criteria

  • A-level / BTEC level 3-5 qualifications in Science, Engineering or Maths
  • Proficient maths skills (Equivalent of GCSE Maths Grade 4/C or above)
  • Good IT skills with experience with MS Office applications

Essential Criteria

  • Knowledge of fundamental principles in Science, Engineering or Maths and the confidence to apply them with guidance from technical experts.
  • Fine attention to detail and the ability to accurately capture data and to perform rudimentary analysis including calculating averages, standard deviations and plotting graphs.
  • Versatility and confidence in communicating and collaborating with a range of technical experts.
  • The ability to methodically follow process instructions and to work in accordance with a technical plan or design of experiments that has been agreed in advance.
  • To ensure that all activities remain secure, safe and efficient and that all risk assessments have been read, understood, and are always followed.
  • Forward planning and time management skills to assist in maintaining core facilities and assets for the timely delivery of projects.
  • The ability to capture key details and produce excellent written records of projects, presentations and meetings.

Desirable Criteria

  • Experience in secure printing or previous experience in a STEM-related role
  • Knowledge of good working practises inline with UK Health and Safety regulations. Experience in the safe handling of chemicals, electrical or mechanical equipment would be advantageous.

Please note this role is based at the print works in Debden Essex and requires on-site attendance 5 days per week.

Our Approach to Inclusion
The Bank values diversity, equity and inclusion. We play a key role in maintaining monetary and financial stability, and to do that effectively, we believe we need a workforce that reflects the society we serve.

At the Bank of England, we want all colleagues to feel valued and respected, so we\’re working hard to build an inclusive culture which supports people from all backgrounds and communities to be at their best at work. We celebrate all forms of diversity, including (but not limited to) age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, race, religion, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. We believe that it\’s by drawing on different perspectives and experiences that we\’ll continue to make the best decisions for the public.

We\’ve also partnered with external organisations to support us in making adjustments for candidates and employees in the recruitment process where they\’re needed.

Finally, we\’re proud to be a member of the Disability Confident Scheme. If you wish to apply under this scheme, you should check the box in the \’Candidate Personal Information\’ under the \’Disability Confident Scheme\’ section of the application.

Salary and Benefits Information
The salary on offer for this role is:

London circa £31,200 – £35,100

In addition, we also offer a comprehensive benefits package as detailed below:

  • Currently a non-contributory, career average pension giving you a guaranteed retirement benefit of 1/80th of your annual salary for every year worked. There is the option to increase your pension (to 1/65th) or decrease (to 1/105th) in exchange for salary through our flexible benefits programme each year. The Bank has the discretion to vary standard accrual rates and dial up and dial down rates at any time and to withdraw dial up and dial down options at any time.
  • A discretionary performance award based on a current award pool.
  • An 8% benefits allowance with the option to take as salary or purchase a wide range of flexible benefits.
  • 26 days\’ annual leave with option to buy up to 12 additional days through flexible benefits.
  • Private medical insurance and income protection.

National Security Vetting Process
Employment in this role will be subject to the National Security Vetting clearance process (and typically can take between 6 to 12 weeks post offer) and the passing of additional Bank security checks in accordance with the Bank policy. Further information regarding the vetting and security clearance requirements for the role will be provided to the successful applicant, and information about how the Bank processes personal data for these purposes, is set out in the Bank\’s Privacy Notice.

The Bank of England welcomes applications from all candidates, but as a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) approved sponsor, we have a responsibility to comply with the Immigration Rules and guidance. As such, our ability to employ individuals who require sponsorship for immigration purposes is limited. The Bank cannot guarantee that you and / or the role you are applying for will be eligible for sponsorship and that any application made to UKVI will be successful. Eligibility will therefore be considered on a case by case basis.

The Application Process
Important: Please ensure that you complete the \’work history\’ section and answer ALL the application questions fully. All candidate applications are anonymised to ensure that our hiring managers will not be able to see your personal information, including your CV, when reviewing your application details at the screening stage. It\’s therefore really important that you fill out the work history and application form questions, as your answers will form a critical part of the initial selection process.

The assessment process will comprise of two stages.


This role closes on Sunday 17 August


Please apply online, ensuring that you complete your work history and answer ALL the application questions fully and in detail as your application will not be considered if all mandatory questions are not fully completed.

Seniority level

  • Seniority level

    Entry level

Employment type

  • Employment type

    Full-time

Job function

  • Job function

    Finance

  • Industries

    Banking

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Operational Technician (Banknotes) employer: Bank of England

The Bank of England is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at its Debden Cash Centre in Essex, where you will be part of a diverse team dedicated to pioneering banknote security and design. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the Bank provides comprehensive benefits, including a generous pension scheme, private medical insurance, and opportunities for professional development, all while fostering an inclusive culture that values diversity and collaboration.
Bank of England

Contact Detail:

Bank of England Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Operational Technician (Banknotes)

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the Bank of England's operations and the specific role of the Notes Directorate. Understanding their mission and how they maintain public confidence in banknotes will help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and alignment with their goals during any discussions.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the banking and finance sector, especially those involved in currency production or security features. Engaging with industry experts can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals that could enhance your application.

✨Tip Number 3

Brush up on your technical skills related to science and engineering principles. Being able to discuss relevant concepts confidently will show your preparedness for the role and your ability to contribute effectively to the team.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the team dynamics at the Bank of England. This not only shows your interest but also helps you assess if the environment is a good fit for you, making you a more attractive candidate.

We think you need these skills to ace Operational Technician (Banknotes)

A-level / BTEC level 3-5 qualifications in Science, Engineering or Maths
Proficient maths skills (Equivalent of GCSE Maths Grade 4/C or above)
Good IT skills with experience in MS Office applications
Knowledge of fundamental principles in Science, Engineering or Maths
Attention to detail for accurate data capture and rudimentary analysis
Ability to calculate averages, standard deviations and plot graphs
Strong communication skills for collaboration with technical experts
Methodical approach to following process instructions
Time management skills for maintaining core facilities and assets
Ability to produce excellent written records of projects and meetings
Experience in secure printing or a STEM-related role
Knowledge of UK Health and Safety regulations
Experience in safe handling of chemicals, electrical or mechanical equipment

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Operational Technician (Banknotes) position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these specific needs.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to emphasise your A-level or BTEC qualifications in Science, Engineering, or Maths. If you have any relevant experience in secure printing or STEM-related roles, be sure to include that as well.

Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your proficiency in maths and IT skills, particularly with MS Office applications. Provide examples of how you've applied these skills in previous roles or projects, especially in data collection and analysis.

Craft a Strong Written Record: Since the role requires excellent written records of projects and meetings, include examples of your written communication skills in your application. This could be through reports, presentations, or any documentation you've prepared in past roles.

How to prepare for a job interview at Bank of England

✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge

Make sure to brush up on your understanding of the fundamental principles in science, engineering, or maths. Be prepared to discuss how you can apply this knowledge in practical scenarios related to banknote production and security features.

✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail

Since the role requires fine attention to detail, be ready to provide examples from your past experiences where you successfully captured data accurately or performed analysis. Highlight any specific instances where your meticulousness made a difference.

✨Communicate Effectively

The ability to communicate and collaborate with technical experts is crucial. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, and think of examples where you worked as part of a team to solve a problem or complete a project.

✨Prepare for Practical Assessments

Given the hands-on nature of the role, be prepared for potential practical assessments during the interview. Familiarise yourself with basic equipment and processes related to banknote production, and be ready to demonstrate your understanding of safety regulations.

Operational Technician (Banknotes)
Bank of England
Location: Loughton
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