At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure safety and security for students and staff while coordinating security operations.
- Company: Join the University of Derby, a top-rated institution focused on student experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, pension scheme, wellbeing support, and discounts.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic role with varied challenges every day.
- Qualifications: Experience in security operations, strong communication skills, and a proactive mindset.
The predicted salary is between 38431 - 38431 £ per year.
About the University
We have one simple promise – to make a positive impact. Through our ground-breaking research, teaching excellence and commitment to sustainable living, we are changing lives for the better. The University of Derby is a modern university with a modern outlook. Everything we do is driven by delivering excellence and opportunities for our students, our staff and our region. We have some of the best university facilities in the UK and achieve outstanding results for our teaching and research and have been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – making it one of the top universities in the country recognised for its outstanding student experience and student outcomes.
Financially strong and seriously ambitious we offer our employees an inclusive culture that centres itself around staff wellbeing, where you can be confident you will receive all the help and encouragement you need to build a rewarding career with lots of opportunities to enhance your skills.
About the College/Department
Our Campus Life and Student Living department is responsible for essential services that significantly impact the student experience. Campus Life is all about the various services that enhance the overall student experience, including sports, recreational facilities and community engagement. Whereas our Student Living teams ensure the safety, comfort and compliance of the University's residential estates. Whichever team you become a part of; student experience is our focus! Our security team are key to the University's success. Generally being the first interaction our customers and visitors will have with us, the service they receive will shape their experience.
About the Role
As a Security Controller, you’ll play a key role in ensuring the safety and security of our students, staff, and facilities across the University of Derby. Based within our 24/7 Control Room at the Kedleston Road campus, you’ll coordinate all aspects of security operations, from incident response and monitoring CCTV systems to directing on-site teams and liaising with external agencies when required. You’ll act as the central point of contact for all planned and reactive security activity, ensuring a professional, efficient and customer-focused service at all times. This is a fast-paced and varied role where no two days are the same – requiring quick thinking, sound judgement, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. The full-time working hours for this role are 42 hours per week, working a 4 on 4 off pattern. The shifts are 12 hours (07:00 to 19:00 and 19:00 to 07:00), with a 24/7 rota in place. The salary advertised includes a 20% shift allowance.
About You
You’ll bring proven experience from a control room or security operations environment, with strong situational awareness and the confidence to take the lead during incidents. You’ll have excellent communication and organisational skills, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and the ability to make quick, effective decisions when it matters most. You’ll be comfortable using CCTV, radio, and access control systems, as well as maintaining accurate records and reports. A customer-focused mindset and the ability to handle sensitive or challenging situations with professionalism are essential. You’ll hold GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English, along with a full, clean UK driving licence. A current SIA CCTV or Door Supervisor Licence and First Aid at Work Certificate would be advantageous, as would IT competence and experience operating large-scale security systems.
Benefits
- Generous annual leave entitlement (pro rata)
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Suite of holistic wellbeing benefits and support including family-friendly policies, generous sick pay provision and comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to a variety of staff discounts at high street retailers
- Discounted onsite gym
- Cycle to Work scheme
- A flexible working environment
- A commitment to personal and professional development
Key Contact
For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Amer Shams, Head of Security.
Important Information
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 and is therefore subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Any information you provide will be treated in confidence and only used when considering your suitability for the post. To enable us to process your DBS check please ensure you are able to supply the documentation listed on the DBS website at interview stage. The University is unable to sponsor the employment of international workers under the Skilled Worker route for this role; however, applications are welcome from candidates who are able to demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK. The University of Derby is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our staff, students and children. At the University of Derby, safeguarding is everybody's concern.
Closing Date: 15 Jul 2026
Area: Operational Support
Salary: £36,753 to £38,431 per annum based on a 42-hour week, inclusive of a 20% shift allowance (for exceptional performers, there is scope for further progression up to £44,196 per annum)
Operations Controller (0255-25-R3) - Derby, DE22 1GB employer: University of Derby
The University of Derby is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises staff wellbeing and professional development. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to making a positive impact through education and research, employees can thrive in a supportive environment while contributing to the enriching student experience. The generous benefits package, including a Local Government Pension Scheme and holistic wellbeing support, further enhances the appeal of working at this esteemed institution in Derby.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Controller (0255-25-R3) - Derby, DE22 1GB
✨Join Security Community Events
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Utilise platforms like LinkedIn to follow and connect with leaders in security services. Engage with their content; it shows your interest and can spark conversations that might lead to job opportunities at companies like University of Derby. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for insights or informational interviews!
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✨Directly Apply to University of Derby
Don’t forget to apply for the Operations Controller (0255-25-R3) - Derby, DE22 1GB role directly through our website! It not only ensures that your application is seen by the right eyes but also demonstrates your enthusiasm for joining University of Derby.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Controller (0255-25-R3) - Derby, DE22 1GB
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Certifications:When applying for a full-time position in security services, make sure to showcase any relevant certifications you have, like SIA or other security industry qualifications. This adds credibility and shows that you're serious about your career in this field.
Demonstrate Your Attention to Detail:In security roles, attention to detail is crucial. Use your CV and cover letter to provide examples of how you’ve noticed and addressed security vulnerabilities or hazards in past jobs. This will help us see your proactive approach to ensuring safety.
Tailor Your Experience:Don’t just list duties from previous jobs; instead, frame your experiences in a way that relates directly to the role at University of Derby. Whether that's managing a team, conducting risk assessments, or successfully maintaining safety protocols, make this relevant to what we do.
Share Your Availability and Flexibility:Full-time roles often require a degree of flexibility. Make sure to clearly state your availability in your application, especially if you can work various shifts. This shows us your readiness to adapt to the needs of the role at University of Derby.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Derby
✨Know Your Security Protocols
In the security services field, it's crucial to familiarise yourself with the latest security protocols and technologies. Brush up on things like surveillance systems, access control, and emergency response procedures. You'll likely face technical questions, so having a couple of solid scenarios or case studies ready can really impress your interviewers at University of Derby.
✨Demonstrate Situational Awareness
Prepare to showcase your situational awareness skills. You might be put in hypothetical scenarios where you need to assess potential risks or respond to incidents. Practising how you’d handle these situations ahead of time can give you the confidence to articulate your thought process during the interview.
✨Emphasise Teamwork & Communication
Since security services often rely on effective teamwork and clear communication, be ready to share examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight any instances where you’ve had to relay critical information or work closely with other services – this is key for a role at University of Derby.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
You can expect a variety of behavioural interview questions focusing on your past experiences and how you've handled challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Sharing specific examples from previous security roles or related jobs will help demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and reliability to the team at University of Derby.
