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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle and process mail for the UK armed forces with a mix of physical and desk work.
- Company: Join the British Forces Postal Office, a trusted name in Defence services.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, a generous pension, bonuses, and discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team that values diversity and offers career progression.
- Qualifications: Must have IT skills, a full UK driving licence, and experience in physically demanding roles.
- Other info: 100% site-based role with Monday to Friday hours; training provided.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 33600 £ per year.
Job Description
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 the Defence Mail Centre in Northolt where we will provide all the training required to develop your capability and gain the experience necessary to excel and progress 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 and may involve extended periods of standing.
This position is 100% site-based with typical working hours of Monday to Friday 07:00 – 15:00. These hours may be subject to change depending on local stakeholder's service level agreements.
What you’ll be doing
- Maintaining procedures in accordance with mail handling standards and processes set by BFPO and Royal Mail Group.
- Maintaining workplace safety standards, responsible for your own safety and the safety of your colleagues.
- 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).
- 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 driver 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 security procedures, you will follow personal security arrangements, complete annual security training and you will be required to carry appropriate issued ID whilst at work.
- Some Autonomous working and decision making.
- Taking reasonable care to ensure the health and safety of others who may be impacted by your actions or omissions at work, while adhering to best practices and complying with relevant legislation concerning environmental protection and energy conservation.
Person specificationTo be successful with your application, you'll need to show that you meet the following essential criteria:
- Working knowledge of IT Systems and Microsoft Office applications with experience of data entry and processing.
- Holder of a Full UK Manual Driving licence, Cat B with a maximum of 6 penalty points.
- Recent evidence of working in a physically demanding role.
- Ability to work under pressure, at pace and to tight schedules.
- Evidence of working autonomously 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
Offered benefits
- 25 days’ annual leave +1 day a year up to 30 days, 8 bank holidays and a day off for the King’s birthday
- Market-leading average employer pension contribution of 28.97%
- Annual performance-based bonus and recognition awards
- Access to specialist training and funded qualifications
- Support for progression
- Huge rangeJo of discounts
- Volunteering days
- Enhanced parental leave schemes
Improving innovation and enriching our culture, diversity of thought is vital to our success. So, whether you’re looking for a new opportunity, a next step, or a helping hand as you return from a career break, bring your experiences and help deliver for the defence of tomorrow. Here you’ll find a supportive, family-friendly organisation to be a part of – and if you need any assistance with your application, just let us know.
Postal & 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 & Mail Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the BFPO and Royal Mail Group's mail handling standards. Understanding their procedures will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high safety and security standards.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in physically demanding roles. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully managed similar tasks, as this will show that you're capable of handling the physical aspects of the Postal & Mail Operative position.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your IT skills, especially with Microsoft Office applications. Since data entry and processing are key parts of the job, being able to demonstrate your proficiency in these areas will give you an edge over other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare examples of how you've worked both autonomously and as part of a team. The role requires collaboration and independent decision-making, so showcasing your ability to excel in both environments will be beneficial during the interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Postal & Mail Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Postal & Mail Operative. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these expectations.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise any previous roles that involved physical work, data entry, or customer service. Provide specific examples of how you have successfully managed similar tasks in the past.
Showcase IT Skills: Since the role requires a working knowledge of IT systems and Microsoft Office applications, mention any relevant experience you have with these tools. Consider including specific software you are proficient in.
Demonstrate Teamwork and Autonomy: Provide examples of how you have worked effectively both as part of a team and independently. This will show your ability to adapt to different working environments, which is crucial for this position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Reed Talent Solutions
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Postal & Mail Operative. Familiarise yourself with mail handling standards, safety procedures, and the importance of secure mail processing. This will show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Demonstrate Your Physical Capability
Since the role involves physical tasks, be prepared to discuss your experience in physically demanding jobs. Highlight any relevant examples where you've successfully managed similar responsibilities, such as lifting or sorting heavy items.
✨Showcase Your IT Skills
As the job requires working with IT systems and data entry, be ready to talk about your proficiency with Microsoft Office and any other relevant software. Providing specific examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles can set you apart.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Autonomy
The role requires both teamwork and the ability to work independently. Prepare examples that illustrate your experience in both areas, showcasing how you can collaborate effectively while also taking initiative when needed.