At a Glance
- Tasks: Protect the Port of Dover by ensuring security and compliance with regulations.
- Company: Join a dedicated team at one of the UK's critical gateways.
- Benefits: Earn £13.45 per hour, enjoy flexible hours, and receive PPE and uniform.
- Other info: Opportunities for training, career growth, and employee volunteering.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a dynamic, multi-agency environment while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in security, strong communication skills, and IT literacy required.
The predicted salary is between 27800 - 27800 € per year.
Join our team and help protect one of the UK’s most critical gateways. We’re looking for professional, vigilant, and customer-focused Seasonal Security Officers to safeguard people, assets, and the integrity of the Restricted Area at the Port of Dover. This is a vital role ensuring compliance with port security regulations, the ISPS Code, and local security procedures. This will be on a fixed term contract starting in May, through to either August or September 2026. Hours will average between 6 – 24 per week over the contract period and holiday will be planned into your rota. Some weeks you could work more hours, and other weeks less than your average or no shifts at all. You will be informed of your shifts at least 3 weeks in advance, unless urgent cover is needed. Shift allocation will be based on operational requirements.
In this role, you'll be expected to fulfil the mentioned job roles along with any additional responsibilities to support the organisation.
What you’ll do:- Operate gatehouses and access points, verifying IDs, permits, and vehicle documentation.
- Conduct screening of persons, vehicles, and baggage using approved equipment and procedures.
- Patrol terminals, berths, and restricted areas to deter unauthorised access and identify vulnerabilities.
- Respond promptly to alarms, incidents, and emergencies, liaising with multi-agency partners.
- Deliver excellent customer service to passengers, hauliers, and contractors, handling queries and de-escalating conflict.
- Maintain accurate records and support audits, drills, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Proven experience in security within busy operational environments (transport, logistics, ports or similar).
- Strong communication skills, situational awareness, and conflict management capability.
- IT literacy (Microsoft 365) and ability to use radios and access control systems.
- Ability to pass background checks and work a 24/7 shift pattern.
- Valid SIA Licence.
- Counter Terrorism awareness (e.g., ACT training).
- Full UK driving licence.
- First Aid or emergency response qualification.
- PPE and uniform provided.
- Regular training, briefings, and exercises.
- Opportunity to work in a dynamic, multi-agency environment.
- Be part of a team that values integrity, professionalism, and respect.
Salary: £13.45p/h
All appointments are subject to security checks and right-to-work verification. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all qualified candidates.
Benefits:- Accrued holiday entitlement
- Auto enrolment pension (after 3 months)
- PPE provided
- Free parking
- Employee assistance programme
- 3rd party discounts
- Benefits and reward platform
- Employee volunteering scheme
All offers of employment are subject to us obtaining satisfactory references (covering all education, training, employment and unemployment in the preceding 5 years) and there will be a pre-employment medical including a Drug and Alcohol test. We need to satisfy your Right to Work in the UK. Please be aware that all employees will be subject to background security checks in order to obtain a Dock Pass. We value the unique differences that each of our colleagues bring to work every day and are committed to creating an environment where everyone is looking after each other and respected, included and able to perform at their best. All applications are reviewed by our team — we do not use AI for screening.
Closing date: 22 May 2026 at 5pm (Please note that this vacancy may close early if we receive sufficient applications).
Seasonal Port Security Officer in Dover employer: Port of Dover
Join our team at the Port of Dover, where we prioritise integrity, professionalism, and respect in a dynamic, multi-agency environment. As a Seasonal Port Security Officer, you'll benefit from regular training, a supportive work culture, and opportunities for personal growth while safeguarding one of the UK's critical gateways. Enjoy competitive pay, accrued holiday entitlement, and a range of employee benefits, all while working in a role that is both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Seasonal Port Security Officer in Dover
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to friends, family, or even acquaintances who might have connections in the security industry. A personal recommendation can go a long way in landing that Seasonal Port Security Officer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your situational awareness and conflict management skills. Think of real-life scenarios where you’ve had to handle tricky situations and be ready to share those experiences with us.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your customer service skills! Remember, as a Seasonal Security Officer, you'll be interacting with passengers and contractors. Be ready to demonstrate how you can handle queries and de-escalate conflicts effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Seasonal Port Security Officer in Dover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any previous security experience you have, especially in busy environments like ports or transport. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of a Seasonal Port Security Officer.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and get straight to the point. We appreciate applications that are easy to read and understand.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor it to reflect the specific skills and qualities we’re looking for, like strong communication and conflict management skills. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for our team!
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’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Port of Dover
✨Know Your Security Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of security protocols, especially those relevant to ports and the ISPS Code. Being able to discuss these regulations confidently will show that you're serious about the role and understand its importance.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
As a Seasonal Port Security Officer, you'll be interacting with passengers and contractors regularly. Prepare examples of how you've handled customer queries or de-escalated conflicts in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to maintain professionalism under pressure.
✨Be Ready for Situational Questions
Expect questions that assess your situational awareness and conflict management skills. Think of scenarios where you had to make quick decisions or respond to emergencies. Practising these responses can help you articulate your thought process during the interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Technology
Since the role requires IT literacy and the use of access control systems, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with Microsoft 365 and any relevant security technology. Mentioning your comfort with these tools can give you an edge over other candidates.
