Site Security Controller

Aircraft Research Association (ARA) is a unique SME and the UK's leading independent transonic wind tunnel with a passionate workforce of engineering and aerodynamic professionals. We are a leading specialist in aerodynamic research providing complementary services and solutions to international aerospace and defence clients. Our clients include Saab, Bombardier, Boeing, Turkish Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Airbus, Comac and BAE Systems.

Typical projects include producing scaled-down military and civilian aircraft models, comprising multiple parts, which are assembled together and used as highly accurate forces/pressures measuring devices within the on-site high-speed (transonic) wind tunnel.

Site Security Controller

ARA is a unique SME originally built in the 1950s and represents some of the best engineering of the age. We are proud to have a passionate workforce of highly skilled engineering and aerodynamic professionals. We are the leading specialist in aerodynamic research providing complementary services and solutions to international aerospace and defence clients. Our clients include Saab, Bombardier, Boeing, Turkish Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Airbus, Comac and BAE Systems.

Our site in Bedford centres 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 currently have an exciting opportunity for a Site Security Controller to join our facilities in Bedford.

Reporting directly to Senior Leadership, the job holder will be seen as the subject expert in all security related matters and will be the champion in promoting Security Culture across the organisation.

They will be expected to manage all aspects of the physical and procedural Security Operations in line with ARA Limited Security Policy. They will be responsible for ensuring that site security controls are effective and remain compliant in line with MOD and Client requirements.

The successful candidate will have significant security experience within a high profile, high risk organisation holding Secret materials. Hold a security industry recognised qualification (CSMP/Degree) and ideally an in-depth knowledge of HMG and industry standard security policy, standards and good practice guidance.

Line Management responsibility for site physical security operations team.

Salary:

£45,000

Typical Hours:

Full time, 38 hours per week

This is a varied and demanding role and it involves a number of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Production and maintenance of ARA Site Risk Register and threat assessments.
• Conducting first line audits and musters to provide assurance and evidence to MOD, Client and Internal Governance Teams.
• Conducting security reviews and supporting on site teams in the implementation of required infrastructure uplifts to maintain regulatory compliance.
• Ensure all protectively marked material assets/information is handled and accounted for in the correct manner.
• Liaison with government regulators to refine requirements, frameworks and operational evaluation criteria.
• Adherence to all legislative and customer physical and operational security standards.
• Manage Service Level Agreements with the manned guarding service provider to ensure contractual requirements are met.
• Support and provide expert Security Advice to Emergency Planning Teams.
• Engage with Senior Stakeholders to ensure Operational Security needs are identified and captured in business planning and development.
• Represent Security in Site SHE activities.

What We Are Looking For In You

• Demonstrates technical knowledge and skills reflective of a security SQEP practitioner who has progressed within security positions of increasing responsibility
• Understanding of legislation and regulations across the market/ business area
• Knowledge approaches to security management including physical, information and operational security
• Experience of security risk management techniques
• Experience of security systems, manned guarding and incident response principles
• Good understanding of government and industry security standards and best practice guidance
• Holistic approach to security, ideally with knowledge in Cyber/Information Security

Our Benefits

This is an exciting permanent opportunity for the right person to be part of a successful and highly skilled engineering company. In return, we offer a range of benefits including: a competitive salary and pension scheme; free parking; optional participation in the BAE shares scheme; employee assistance programme; private health insurance and 26 days' annual leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing with length of service after 5 years' service).

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.

If you think you are the person we are looking for, please complete the form below.