Security Officer - British

Position: Security Officer - British High Commission
The British Government is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer. We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law. We promote family-friendly flexible working opportunities, where operational and security needs allow.

The FCDO operates an agile workforce and to facilitate this, you may be required to undertake other duties from time to time, as we may reasonably require. Job Category Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (Operations and Corporate Services) Job Subcategory Security Guards

Job Description (Roles and Responsibilities)

Main purpose of job

The Security Officer will provide a safe and secure working environment for the staff of the British High Commission.

Roles and responsibilities

Main duties to include but not limited to:

Controlled access to the British High Commission compound and Residence including issuing and managing passes

Searches of visitors and vehicles as required

Surveillance of the perimeter of the site including the use of CCTV equipment

Patrolling the perimeter of the compound

Responsible for inspection of all incoming mail/couriered packages and deliveries with operation of scanning equipment

Respond to, manage and record security incidents

Provide escort/security as required at the British High Commission and Residence

Supervision of contracted security officers as required

Other duties as directed

Occasional overtime and out of hours working

Essential qualifications, skills and experience

Valid Ontario Provincial Government Security Guard License

Minimum 1 year experience in a security related field

Minimum First Aid Certified with CPR and AED qualifications

Basic IT skills are needed including a working knowledge of Windows 10, Outlook, Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel

Strong work ethic and ability to work alone without direct supervision

Ability to adapt to the dynamics of and work well in a small team environment

Need to be flexible, with a keen eye for detail

Ability to perform additional duties as and when required

Ability to arrive/stay 10-15 minutes either side of shift if required to perform adequate handover to next shift

Must be legally authorised to work in Canada

Due to security clearance requirements, must hold one (or more) of the following passports:
Canada, UK, US, Australia, or New Zealand

Desirable qualifications, skills and experience

Class G Driver's Licence

Ability to drive both automatic and standard transmissions would be an asset

French as a second language is not required but would be an asset

Required behaviours Changing and Improving, Delivering at Pace, Making Effective Decisions, Working Together Final date to receive applications 1 February 2026 Grade S2 Type of Position Full-time, Permanent Working hours per week 37.5 Region Americas, Caribbean & Overseas Territories Country/Territory Canada Location (City) Ottawa Type of Post British High Commission Number of vacancies 2 Salary Currency CAD Salary CAD $4,083.18 per month Type of Salary monthly Start Date 23 March 2026 Other benefits and conditions of employment

Learning and development opportunities
There will be ongoing learning and development opportunities and mandatory courses.

Appointable candidates who were unsuccessful may be placed on a ‘reserve list’. If during the reserve period of 6months the same or a largely similar role becomes available, that role may be offered to the second or subsequent candidate.

Please note, the salary is non-negotiable.

The British Embassy Network offers a strong benefits package. This package includes generous vacation and leave time, flexible working patterns, and enriching learning and development opportunities.

Working as part of a small Security team, we have a generous benefit package including pension, 4 weeks of paid holidays and a medical/dental plan. Holidays are subject to suitable cover being in place, which is why the ability to be a good team player is essential.