Reader Invigilation Officer

Overview

The National Archives is a premier institution with a collection spanning 1,000 years of history. We aim to become a 21st Century national archive:
Inclusive, Entrepreneurial, Disruptive. This role supports frontline customer service and security within a reader environment.

• Salary: £27,600 per annum
• Contract type: Permanent
• Band: B / AO
• Closing date: Wednesday 22nd July 2026 at midnight

Join our Front of House team as a Reader Invigilation Officer. You will safeguard the nation’s records while providing an exceptional visitor experience. The role suits someone who is calm under pressure, enjoys working with people, and can work as part of a collaborative team. You may already hold a security qualification or work towards one.

Your responsibilities include acting as a custodian of the collection, supporting visitors and readers, and upholding reading room rules.

• Manage access points to the Document Reading Room and the Map and Large Document Reading Room
• Monitor CCTV systems and conduct security patrols
• Ensure reading room rules are observed and documents are handled appropriately
• Provide guidance and support to visitors and readers
• Represent The National Archives with a welcoming and professional service

This is a fully site-based role at our Kew site with no home-working option. Working pattern is Tuesday to Saturday with the following hours:

• Wednesday, Friday and Saturday: 08:50–17:02
• Tuesday and Thursday: 10:50–19:02

Location:

Kew, near Overground and Underground stations. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including civil service pension, discounts, wellbeing support, on-site gym, and more.

• Civil Service pension scheme
• Discounts with local businesses and services
• On-site wellbeing support and therapies
• On-site gym facilities
• Restaurant, shop and staff bar

• Interviews will take place on-site in August 2026
• Formal panel interview and informal peer panel with Front of House team

Main duties include managing entrance points, monitoring CCTV, and invigilating to ensure security of Reading Rooms. You will interact with the public, advise on handling rare records, and enforce rules.

• Manage entrance points for Document Reading Room and Map and Large Document Reading Room
• Monitor CCTV and undertake security patrols
• Invigilate to safeguard documents and manage visitor expectations
• Provide guidance to visitors and staff with a customer-focused approach
• Record incidents in the invigilation log daily
• Be physically fit to undertake patrols up to 2km daily
• Produce comprehensive incident reports when required
• Assist in emergency procedures, evacuations, and building security

Essential criteria

• Willingness to undertake a recognised security qualification; SIA CCTV Operator
• Previous experience in a customer-facing role
• Excellent face-to-face communication, including influencing and negotiating
• Ability to remain calm under pressure
• Ability to work in a team and independently
• Basic IT skills and knowledge of MS Office; familiarity with electronic security systems
• Physical fitness with good eyesight; corrected vision acceptable

Desirable criteria

• Previous invigilation experience in a Museum or Gallery
• Security best practice knowledge and related legislation
• First Aid qualification

On-site presence required. The Civil Service is committed to diversity and equal opportunities. The role may involve working with distressed materials and lone patrols.

Generous benefits package including pension, gym, staff facilities, and development opportunities. Annual leave: 22 days rising to 30 days with service, plus public/privilege holidays. Transfers from other employers may affect childcare vouchers eligibility.

For accessibility needs or adjustments during the application process, contact car