House of Commons

The House of Commons a unique and exciting place to work right at the heart of the UK's thriving democratic system.

Behind the scenes, the House of Commons Service is made up of more than 3,000 employees who support and facilitate the smooth day to day running of the House. They provide professional services to Members of Parliament, their staff, and the wider parliamentary community.

Staff Benefits

In addition to your salary, we offer an attractive range of benefits including:

• 30 days' annual leave (increasing to 35 days after first full leave year).
• Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 28.97%.
• Access to training and development.
• Flexible working.
• Interest free season ticket loan and bicycle loan.

Introduction

The Parliamentary Security Department (PSD) is responsible for physical and personnel security across both Houses of Parliament and provides support to Members and staff when away from the Estate. Its purpose is to keep Parliament safe and open for business.

PSD sets security strategy provides expert advice and delivers an operational service. It does this in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) and by working closely with the Parliamentary Estates Teams, Serjeant at Arms and Black Rod's office, Restoration & Renewal teams, the Parliamentary Digital Service, and other key stakeholders.

The Role

This role will support the implementation of the prevention, protection, and intervention arrangements on the Parliamentary Estate in accordance with the Fire Safety Policy, with the objective of providing practical benefits to both Houses.

Individuals will work as part of a shift-based watch team to facilitate the resolution of operational incidents. Building and sustaining productive partnerships with other personnel, contractors, and agencies that are accountable for the provision of related services.

Under the supervision of the Watch Manager and as a member of the Fire Protection Team, guarantee the delivery of the FPT Service Definition's minimum standards and the successful completion of routine fire protection activities.

Some of the responsibilities for this role include:

• As part of a watch (shift) in the Fire Protection Team, carry out pre planned schedules of work including fire evacuation drills, patrols and inspections highlighting deficiencies in fire prevention arrangements across the Parliamentary estate in accordance with FPT Service Definition.
• Monitor the fire alarm systems within a Control room, respond and mobilize the fire section to immediately investigate actuations of the fire alarm system across the Parliamentary estate. Implementing and assisting in evacuations if necessary.
• Contact and liaise with the London Fire Brigade (LFB) in the event of any incident requiring their attendance and assist the LFB by providing information and guidance in accordance with the policy of the FPT and the LFB.
• Support the implementation of the House salvage plan at any incident and support the responsible member of staff of the house for the retrieval of valuables.

Skills and Experience

To be successful in this role you will demonstrate:

• A qualification in fire prevention or fire safety is desirable: e.g., membership (at least at the level of Student) of the Institute of Fire Engineers or similar professional body will be an advantage, together with documented proof of CPD since leaving a fire related occupation.
• Previous experience in a Fire & Rescue Service or Fire Safety team within a large or complex organization. This includes hands-on firefighting and extinguishing, as well as providing comprehensive fire safety advice.
• Experience of working with diverse groups of people, upholding the principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion, ensuring that everyone is, at all times, treated with dignity, courtesy and respect.
• You should be great at both written and spoken communication. It's important to build and maintain good relationships with customers, stakeholders, and colleagues at all levels. Having excellent interpersonal skills is key, especially when it comes to influencing and persuading people. You need to be able to communicate clearly and engage positively with everyone you work with.

Next Steps and Additional Information

• CV & Application - If you would like to apply for this role, please submit your CV and evidence against criteria 2,4 and 5.

More information on the role and the full criteria can be found in the Job Description.

Please note that most job offers will be made at the minimum of the salary range, other than in exceptional circumstances.

Please ensure that you anonymise your application by removing any identifiable factors from your CV or Supporting Statement.

We may close the vacancy prior to the closing date stated due to a high volume of applications.

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