How to get a security job as a CCTV operator

Did you know that with an estimated 4 to 6 million cameras, it’s thought that the UK is the country with the third most cameras per person in the world? That’s around one camera for every 13 people! Many of these cameras are not manned, and the images are only looked at in the rare event of an incident taking place. However, shops, businesses, and organisations such as hospitals need to know in real-time about any suspicious or criminal activity — and this is where the role of the CCTV operator comes in. 

So what is it like being a CCTV operator, and could it be just the job for you?

Responsibilities, perks and promotions

If you want to work in security, keeping the public safe, but you don’t want an outdoor job standing on your feet, this role could be just right for you. A CCTV operator role is not a bum-on-a-seat role, where you can busy yourself on your mobile phone or read a book all night. You may have to monitor up to 15 cameras, which takes skill and dedication as you are responsible for keeping people safe. Security staff on the ground will take instructions from you in the control room about potential issues and incidents. You may even need to contact the police and give evidence in court later. It’s also vital that you log incidents and use the cameras legally. You may not zoom in on people you like the look of; you must have a valid reason for surveillance. 

During your training, you’ll learn all about using CCTV monitoring equipment legally and skillfully to zoom in and out on suspicious behaviour.  

Step 1 — Check your eligibility

Many people get into CCTV roles after becoming security guards or door supervisors. However, while experience would be an advantage, it’s not necessary, and you can start a career in security as a CCTV operator.  

In addition, there are no set academic qualifications required; you just need to be eligible for the role, which means:

• You must be over 18 years of age
• You must have proof you can work in the UK
• You must pass a criminal background check
• You must pass a mental health check

Step 2 — Book and attend your course

The great news about the CCTV operator’s course is that it is just three days long and you can take the course at any of our 26 locations up and down the UK. The course costs just £179.99 and with our talented training partners we achieve a 95% pass rate. If you don’t pass the first time and don’t want to retake the course, we will issue a refund with our no-quibble, full money-back guarantee. So, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain!

Step 3 — Send off your SIA licence with the required fee

You need a specific licence if you want to work using CCTV cameras. After you have passed your course, you’ll need to send off your licence fee of £184, and it usually takes around four weeks to get your licence back. 

Step 4 — Find a job

Now that you have your licence, it’s time to start looking for a job. The Get-Licensed app is a great way to get started. Not only does the app help you pass your course, but it’s there waiting to help you find your first job. Start by creating a worker profile using neat tools such as the CV builder that you can then share with security employers. 

There are also plenty of jobs on the app for you to apply for, with the app cleverly helping you track the status of your applications. You can also check out a few hacks in our job hunting blog. 

Earning Potential

The pay for a CCTV operator is around £10 -15 per hour. As you gain more experience, you will earn more, and you might also earn a shift allowance for working nights, for example. Shift patterns are often 12 hours, so many roles work 4 days on and 4 days off pattern — perfect for long weekends and other commitments. And you can, of course, move up the ladder to running the security team. Check out our YouTube video about the role and book your course today!