Security Officer

Role Overview

As part of the continued growth and development of the Security Team at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, we are recruiting four Security Officers to help deliver a safe, secure, and welcoming environment across one of the UK’s most iconic visitor attractions. Working across front‑line security operations, control room functions, incident response, access control, and visitor engagement, this varied role offers the opportunity to work within a professional operational team supporting over 2.25 million visitors annually.

No two days are the same, and successful candidates will play a key role in protecting people, property, and the visitor experience across the Gardens.

An Enhanced DBS Check is required for this role.

You will take on a variety of security and support duties, including monitoring and controlling access to the Gardens, responding to incidents and emerging situations, engaging with visitors, maintaining accurate records and reports, and operating CCTV, access control, alarm systems, and radio communications. You will remain calm and make effective decisions under pressure, working both independently and as part of a team.

• Experience in security, stewarding, customer service, or other public‑facing operational roles.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm and make effective decisions under pressure.
• Experience working within procedures and responding appropriately to incidents or emerging situations.
• Comfortable with independent and team working, and maintaining accurate records and reports using basic IT systems (including Microsoft Office).
• A good standard of education.
• Flexibility to work shifts including evenings, weekends and public holidays.
• Willingness to undertake an enhanced DBS check.
• Current SIA licence (or willingness to obtain one).
• First Aid at Work qualification (or willingness to undertake training).
• Experience with CCTV, access control, alarm systems or radio communications is advantageous.
• Full UK driving licence.

£29,692 – £31,434 per annum [Band B].

Our benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work‑life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other well‑being support such as a cycle‑to‑work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.

At Kew, our strength lies in the diversity of our people and the insights they bring. When you join us, you will find an organisation that values your perspective and lived experience. You will receive support to achieve your full potential and access opportunities to develop and progress. Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion is ongoing, shaped by the people who work here and the communities we serve.

As a disability‑confident employer, we are breaking down barriers to create an inclusive workplace for everyone.