Security Controller

This role is permanent, full time (12 hour shifts) x 4

There is no fixed closing date for this vacancy. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and interviews will be arranged as suitable candidates are identified. The advert will close once all positions have been filled.

This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Successful candidate(s) must have the right to work in the UK or obtain it through another route without the sponsorship of the University. Further information is available on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.

The University of Reading is seeking a Security Control Room Officer. This role supports the safety, security, and wellbeing of students, staff, visitors, and University assets. You will contribute to incident response, customer service, and operational support.

About You

You will remain calm under pressure, communicate confidently, and make sound decisions in fast‑moving situations. You will be committed to high-quality customer care and maintaining a secure and welcoming environment for the University community.

Key Responsibilities

Emergency & Incident Response

• Support emergency procedures, including Terrorism or Other Life‑Threatening Incident Response.
• Follow standard operating procedures and support incident management across the estate.
• Complete accurate incident reports via the IRIS reporting system.
• Maintain detailed log of incidents requiring follow‑up, including maintenance issues or complaints.
• Liaise with Police and other emergency services when required.

Control Room Operations

• Operate all Security Control Room systems: telephones, alarm receiving systems, CCTV, mass notification, refuge systems, radio channels, and associated technology.
• Monitor CCTV in accordance with relevant policies, Data Protection, and Freedom of Information legislation.
• Manage access control systems and facilitate approved out‑of‑hours access.
• Report system or service malfunctions following the call-out procedure.
• Supervise the shift and support other Control Room staff in the absence of supervisor.

 On Campus Security Duties

• Conduct foot and vehicle patrols across University campus.
• Monitor buildings, grounds, and facilities for suspicious activity, security breaches, and safety hazards.
• Respond to security incidents, alarms, emergencies, and requests for assistance.
• Provide a security presence to deter crime, anti-social behaviour, and unauthorised access.
• Assist students, staff, and visitors with enquiries, directions, and welfare concerns.
• Carry out building lock and unlock procedures and ensure security of University property.
• Record incidents accurately in logs and reports.
• Support emergency procedures, including evacuations, first aid, and coordination with emergency services.
• Monitor CCTV and security systems in accordance with policies.
• Enforce University regulations and maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive campus environment.

 Professional Conduct & Training

• Deliver customer service, through polite, professional, and courteous interactions.
• Represent and promote University Security Service through smart appearance and professional behaviour.
• Undertake mandatory training e.g. SIA, First Aid, assessments, online courses.
• Carry out additional duties as requested by Security Services Management.

You will have; compulsory

• Control room experience including CCTV monitoring
• Current SIA door supervisor licence
• Excellent communication skills
• Incident reporting experience
• Experience in customer-focussed role
• Willingness to work shifts
• Technology competence

Julian Ogden, Security Services Deputy Manager, Email; julian.ogden@reading.ac.uk

Colin Stonehouse, Security Supervisor, Email; c.j.stonehouse@reading.ac.uk

The University is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.

Advert information