Security Officer – Hold Baggage – Stansted Airport

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Website Optime Group

Job Summary: Security Officer – Hold Baggage (Stansted Airport)

Optime Group is recruiting Hold Baggage Security Officers for a major operation at London Stansted Airport (CM24 1QW). Unlike terminal security, this role is primarily focused “behind the scenes” in the baggage handling areas. You will be responsible for the high-tech screening of checked-in luggage to ensure no prohibited or dangerous items make it onto an aircraft.

This is a Temp-to-Perm opportunity, offering a stable shift pattern in a high-security aviation environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Technical Screening & Detection

  • X-Ray & EDS Operation: Use advanced Explosive Detection Systems (EDS) and X-ray technology to scan 100% of hold baggage.

  • Image Interpretation: Accurately identify prohibited items (explosives, weapons, flammable liquids) within complex 2D and 3D images.

  • Manual Search: Conduct physical inspections of bags when flagged by the system, ensuring items are handled with respect and professionalism.

2. Compliance & Safety

  • Regulatory Adherence: Ensure all activities meet strict CAA, ECAC, and ICAO aviation security standards.

  • Equipment Calibration: Perform daily checks to ensure screening devices are functioning correctly and report any technical irregularities immediately.

  • Emergency Response: React swiftly to security alerts, alarms, or potential threats in coordination with airport police and supervisors.

3. Reporting & Coordination

  • Documentation: Complete security logs, incident forms, and reports to maintain a clear audit trail.

  • Stakeholder Collaboration: Work alongside airline ground crews and handling agents to ensure a smooth, secure flow of baggage from check-in to the aircraft.

Role Details & Pay

  • Rate of Pay: £13.84 per hour (Paid weekly every Friday).

  • Shift Pattern: 6 days on, 3 days off.

  • Hours: Shifts range from 8 to 12 hours. You must be flexible, as starts can be as early as 04:00 AM and finishes as late as 23:00 PM.

  • Status: Temp-to-Perm (transition to permanent contract based on performance).

Mandatory Requirements

Due to the sensitive nature of aviation security, the following criteria are non-negotiable:

  • SIA Licence: You must hold a valid SIA Frontline Licence.

  • UK Residency: Minimum of 3 years continuous UK residency is required to pass the Counter-Terrorism Check (CTC).

  • Background Check: Ability to provide a full, checkable 5-year work, education, and address history.

  • Right to Work: Valid Passport, Birth Certificate, or UK Settled Status.

  • Criminal Record: Must pass a basic DBS check in line with CAA requirements.

The Hold Baggage Screening (HBS) Workflow

In a major hub like Stansted, baggage screening is a multi-layered process designed to catch threats without slowing down the airport’s operation.

  • Tier 1: Automated machines clear the vast majority of bags.

  • Tier 2: Security Officers (your role) review images that the machine flags as “uncertain.”

  • Tier 3: High-risk bags are sent for intensive manual or chemical trace inspection.

Why this Role is a Great Entry into Aviation

  • Technical Skillset: You will be trained on some of the most advanced screening technology in the world, a highly transferable skill in the global security sector.

  • Predictable Pattern: The 6-on-3-off rotation allows for long-term personal planning, despite the early starts.

  • Career Growth: Many Security Officers at Stansted progress into specialized roles like Security Supervisor, Duty Manager, or into wider Airport Operations.

Application Tip: The “Aviation Gold Standard” CV

Aviation recruiters like Optime Group look for precision above all else.

  1. Account for Every Month: Ensure there are zero gaps in your 5-year history. If you were traveling or unemployed, list the dates and be prepared to provide a personal referee who can confirm your whereabouts.

  2. Color Vision: If you haven’t had an eye test recently, it’s worth checking your color vision. Interpreting X-ray images relies heavily on distinguishing between different color densities (e.g., orange for organics, blue for metals).

  3. Flexibility: Mention your ability to commute to Stansted for a 04:00 AM start. Having your own transport is often a significant advantage for these early shifts.

    Optime Group is a premier aviation recruitment specialist and workforce solutions provider in the UK. While the firm is headquartered in Crawley, its Stansted Mountfitchet (London Stansted Airport) operation is one of its most critical hubs, serving as a primary recruitment and vetting center for one of the UK’s fastest-growing airports. The company is defined by a “tech-meets-human” philosophy, utilizing its proprietary Elevate platform to manage high-volume staffing while maintaining the strict regulatory compliance required for airside operations.

    Culture and Workforce

    Optime Group is recognized for its high-energy, accountable, and “people-first” culture. In 2026, the firm reached a new milestone, climbing to #48 on the Recruiter HOT 100 list, which marks its third consecutive year as one of the UK’s most productive recruitment businesses. Employees and candidates often highlight the “supportive and simple” onboarding process, which is a significant feat given the complexity of 5-year checkable history and security clearances required for airport roles. The company also actively engages in the community, recently launching a national aviation five-a-side football tournament to unite the sector.

    Key Company Highlights

    Feature Details
    Specialization Aviation, Logistics, Security, and Hospitality Recruitment
    Stansted Operations Focused on high-volume, airside-ready staffing and vetting
    Technology Elevate — a workforce management platform for real-time visibility
    Compliance Expert in CAA/SIA vetting and 5-year background checks
    Growth Ranked #48 in the 2026 Recruiter HOT 100; expanded to the UAE (Dubai)
    Partnerships Works with DHL, easyJet, British Airways, and Menzies Aviation

    Specialist Services at Stansted Airport

    The Stansted team manages a diverse array of roles essential to keeping the airport running 24/7. Key recruitment verticals include:

    • Ground Handling & Ramp: Sourcing baggage handlers and ramp agents who meet strict physical and security requirements.

    • Aviation Security: Placing SIA-licensed officers for passenger and hold-baggage screening (CTC clearance roles).

    • Aircraft & Terminal Cleaning: Managing large-scale teams for specialized “deep clean” and turnaround services.

    • Logistics & Cargo: Providing delivery operatives and HGV drivers to support on-site renovation and freight schedules.

    • Passenger Services: Recruiting check-in agents and PRM (Persons with Reduced Mobility) support staff.

    2026 Strategy and Innovation

    In early 2026, Optime Group has been vocal about the “Future of UK Aviation,” advocating for a balanced approach to automation and human talent. Their current strategy involves:

    • Runway Ready Onboarding: A streamlined digital vetting process that reduces the time-to-hire for high-security roles.

    • Sustainable Staffing: Implementing data-driven shift fulfillment to reduce operational waste for airline partners.

    • Global Mobility: Leveraging their new Dubai office to share best practices between UK and Middle Eastern aviation hubs.

To apply for this job please visit optimegroup.co.uk.