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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Protect customers and staff while ensuring a safe shopping environment.
- Company: Join OCS, a leading facilities management company with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Career development opportunities, funded qualifications, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in retail security while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Valid SIA Licence and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available, including evenings and weekends.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
About The Company
OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with a turnover of £1.7bn and 50,000+ colleagues. We deliver innovative, award-winning services to the public and private sectors and our mission is to make people and places the best they can be.
This role sits within our Security business division which provides physical security guarding, access control, alarm systems and perimeter property protection, CCTV, mobile surveillance, and ANPR Technology services to a wide range of prestigious clients.
Working at OCS is more than just a job; it’s an amazing opportunity to begin or expand your career in Facilities Management. OCS has an ambition to become an ‘Employer of choice’ in our sector and is proud to invest in our colleague’s personal and professional development. OCS provides our colleagues with opportunities to gain qualifications through funded development programmes aligned to the knowledge, skills, and behaviours attached to their roles.
About The Role
Purpose of the Role
As a Retail Security Officer, you will play a vital role in protecting customers, staff, and stock, ensuring a safe and secure shopping environment. You will act as a visible deterrent to criminal activity, provide excellent customer service, and respond effectively to incidents within the retail setting.
Key Responsibilities
Security & Patrols
- Maintain a visible security presence throughout the store to deter theft and anti-social behaviour.
- Conduct regular patrols of the store premises, ensuring safety and security at all times.
- Monitor CCTV and other security equipment to detect and respond to suspicious activities.
- Carry out searches of individuals in accordance with company policies.
- Respond promptly to alarms and incidents, escalating issues to management or law enforcement as required.
- Complete accurate and detailed incident and observation reports.
- Liaise with store management and staff to address security concerns or potential threats.
Customer Service
- Provide a professional and welcoming approach to customers, staff, and visitors.
- Assist customers with directions or queries where necessary.
- De-escalate confrontational situations calmly and professionally.
Compliance & Support
- Ensure compliance with all site-specific procedures, company policies, and legal requirements.
- Support the wider security team and assist with additional duties as requested by the Site Supervisor or Security Manager.
Essential Requirements
- Valid SIA Licence – Door Supervisor (DS) or Security Guarding.
- Strong observational skills to identify suspicious behaviour.
- Proven ability to handle difficult situations calmly and professionally.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills for reporting and interactions.
- Proactive and professional approach to safety and security.
- Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings and weekends.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining a business that encourages professional development, career progression and the chance to work with inspirational people then please click apply and register your interest! You can also sign up to our job alerts when registering which will notify you when other suitable vacancies are available.
We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.
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Area Support Officer - Retail employer: Manchester Arndale
Contact Detail:
Manchester Arndale Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Support Officer - Retail
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current OCS employees on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching OCS and its values. Understand their mission to make people and places the best they can be, and think about how your skills align with that. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who truly fits their culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your customer service skills! As a Retail Security Officer, you’ll need to interact with customers regularly. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to get comfortable handling difficult situations calmly and professionally.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you can sign up for job alerts to stay updated on new opportunities that match your skills and interests.
We think you need these skills to ace Area Support Officer - Retail
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Area Support Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience in security and customer service, and don’t forget to mention your SIA Licence. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about working in retail security and how your skills align with our mission at OCS. Keep it friendly and professional – we love a personal touch!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential for this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear language and structure your documents well. We appreciate clarity and professionalism!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you can easily sign up for job alerts while you’re there – win-win!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Arndale
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Retail Security Officer. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks like maintaining a visible security presence and responding to incidents. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Since this role involves interacting with customers, be prepared to discuss your customer service experience. Think of examples where you've successfully de-escalated confrontational situations or provided excellent service. This will highlight your ability to handle difficult scenarios while maintaining professionalism.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess how you'd react in specific situations, such as dealing with theft or suspicious behaviour. Practise your responses to these scenarios, focusing on your observational skills and calm approach. This will help you convey your problem-solving abilities effectively during the interview.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or how OCS supports career progression. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
