Security Officer
Salary £ 30,000 - 33,000
Bedford
Vacancy listed 20/07/2026
Application deadline 31/08/2026
Details
ARA is a unique SME representing some of the best engineering of our time. With a strong and rich heritage, we are proud to have a passionate workforce of highly skilled engineering and aerodynamic professionals. We are a leading specialist in model design and manufacture, aerodynamic testing and numerous associated technologies, e.g. Computational Fluid Dynamics.  We are actively involved in research, providing meaningful and innovative solutions and services to our global customer base.

Our site in Bedford is centred around our impressive transonic wind tunnel – the equipment which drives it – whilst the research performed is often unique to ARA and involves many bespoke processes.

We are looking to recruit a full-time Security Officer to work as part of our friendly and professional team. The ideal candidate will have a good understanding of the industry and has experience in a similar role. 

This position is an average of 42 hours per week, working 12 hour shifts on a 36 hours / 48 hours shift rotation covering 24 hours.  Possible overtime is available so the ideal candidate will be fully flexible throughout the week. 

We are looking for someone with excellent communication skills and with the drive to ensure the job is completed to the highest standards. The successful applicant will be a confident team player with an eye for detail.

Main Duties/Responsibilities: 
  • To ensure total physical security of ARA premises.
  • Controlling the access and egress of all staff, contractors and visitors.
  • Gatehouse, Reception and customer service duties.
  • Internal and external site patrols.
  • Respond to on site incidents and emergencies.
  • Be proficient in the use of CCTV, intruder alarm systems and access control systems.
  • Maintain security of premises, making offices secure as necessary.
  • Receive and check all incoming mail, in particular any suspicious packages.
  • Operate the switchboard during normal office hours and out of normal business hours.
  • Respond to all alarms.
  • Contact Police, Fire, Ambulance in an emergency
  • Ensure Fire Muster sheets are updated regularly.
  • Monitor all parking situations.
  • Hold and maintain a current First Aid Certificate and carry out First-Aid Duties as and when required.
  • Provide additional cover annual leave and other staff absences.  Work weekends and Bank Holidays as part of normal working shift

Key skills / experience:
  • Strong observation and situational awareness
  • Familiarity with security technology (CCTV, access control, alarm panels)
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal. 
  • Willing to work effectively as part of a team.
  • Ability to develop effective working relationships at all levels.
  • Reliable
  • Professional appearance
  • Professional attitude
  • Excellent public relations skills

Previous experience working as a Security Officer would be desirable. 

The holding of a current First Aid at Work certificate would be preferable but training will be provided if required as this is a contractual condition of employment.

Uniform will be provided.

Please note that we operate a preferred supplier list for recruitment agencies. We are not seeking additional agency support for this vacancy and kindly ask that speculative approaches are not made.

The successful candidate must satisfy security clearance requirements – including the last 5 years continual UK residency.

Aircraft Research Association Ltd is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We recognise the value in an inclusive and diverse workforce and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified people.

Benefits

Annual leave – 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays per annum (pro-rata)
Contributory pension scheme whereby the company matches up to a 7% contribution
Private medical insurance
Life cover of 3 x basic annual salary
Enhanced company sick pay
BAE shares as part of the BAE share incentive plan (SIP)

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