At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the UK's parliamentary democracy as a Doorkeeper in the House of Lords.
- Company: Join the prestigious Black Rod's Department at the heart of Parliament.
- Benefits: 30 days annual leave, generous pension, and health support.
- Other info: Flexible working patterns available to suit your lifestyle.
- Why this job: Be part of history while ensuring smooth operations in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Excellent teamwork, professionalism, and IT skills required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 £ per year.
As a Doorkeeper in Black Rod's Department, you'll play an important role in supporting the UK's parliamentary democracy. Your work will help members of the House of Lords carry out their responsibilities effectively - contributing to something bigger than any one role. You'll be part of a collaborative community, working alongside colleagues from a wide range of professions.
You'll be based on the Parliamentary Estate in Westminster - a unique working environment shaped by history and powered by the people who work here today.
What you'll be doing
Join a prestigious and high-profile team at the heart of the House of Lords, where tradition, security, and exceptional service come together. As part of the Doorkeeping team, you'll play a vital role in supporting the smooth and secure operation of the Chamber and surrounding areas, while contributing to some of the UK Parliament's most iconic ceremonial occasions. You'll be a visible and trusted presence, controlling access to key areas, welcoming Members (Peers), guests, and VIPs, and ensuring that everyone experiences the highest standards of service. From managing entrances and assisting visitors to supporting major State occasions such as the State Opening of Parliament, no two days will be the same. This role places you at the centre of parliamentary life - working closely with Members, supporting Chamber operations, and collaborating with teams across security, visitor services, and events to deliver a seamless and memorable experience.
Please note this role does involve shift-working, for which a generous shift premium allowance is paid - full details are on the job description.
What we're looking for
We're looking for someone who can bring their skills and experience to make a meaningful contribution here. You'll have:
- Team working: Excellent team-working skills together with the experience of working with a variety of people in a diverse & inclusive organisation.
- Tact and confidentiality: The ability to resolve issues with tact, sound judgement and impartiality with a good awareness of maintaining confidentiality within sensitive situations.
- Professionalism: Experience of working to the highest professional standards, whilst conducting your daily duties with ability to follow and understand briefings and directives for high-profile ceremonial events.
- IT Skills: Experience of using IT packages i.e., Word and Excel.
- Flexibility: Ability to adapt and appropriately respond to situations in a fast-paced environment with willingness to work long and sometimes unpredictable and unsocial hours during periods where the House is sitting.
It would be even better if you have:
- Previous or current experience of being First Aid trained.
- Basic understanding of the work of the House of Lords.
- Ability to recall individuals' names and faces for recording and access control purposes.
What you can expect
As a Doorkeeper, you will deliver a wide range of front-facing and operational responsibilities, supporting Members, guests and visitors. You'll need to be confident working in a fast-paced and ever-changing setting, responding to incidents, managing access, and maintaining high standards of service and professionalism at all times. You'll be part of a community that values your wellbeing, supports your development, and recognises the contribution you make.
You'll benefit from:
- 30 days annual leave (rising to 35 after one year), plus public holidays.
- A generous Civil Service pension.
- Access to learning and development across a wide range of roles and professions.
- Support for your health and wellbeing.
- The opportunity to be at the heart of UK parliamentary democracy.
We know flexibility matters. Wherever possible, we'll support working patterns that work for you - including hybrid working, job share or adjusted hours. We'll be open about what's possible for this role.
Ready to apply? If you're looking for a role where you can belong, grow and make a difference, we'd love to hear from you. Please complete your online application by 23:59 on 12 July 2026.
House of Lords Doorkeeper employer: House of Lords
As a Doorkeeper in Black Rod's Department, you will be part of a prestigious team at the heart of the House of Lords, contributing to the UK's parliamentary democracy in a unique and historic environment. The company fosters a collaborative work culture that values employee wellbeing and professional development, offering generous benefits such as 30 days of annual leave, a Civil Service pension, and support for flexible working patterns. This role not only allows you to engage with high-profile events but also provides opportunities for personal growth and meaningful contributions to the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land House of Lords Doorkeeper
✨Dive into Local Government Events
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We think you need these skills to ace House of Lords Doorkeeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for House of Lords and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at House of Lords
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with House of Lords, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for House of Lords.
