Job description for Postal Processing Operative

Are you looking for a career that combines purpose, precision, and pride? The British Forces Post Office (BFPO) are a trusted name in Defence, and we don’t just deliver mail—we deliver connection, security, and support to the UK Armed Forces across the globe. We have an opportunity to join us in our London Courier Terminal as a Protectively Marked Material (PMM) Processor.

You’ll be at the heart of a secure operation, handling highly classified materials with care and accuracy. Whether it’s receipt, processing and despatching sensitive documents or assisting with processes that ensure their safe and timely delivery, your attention to detail will be essential. You’ll receive full training to use our bespoke software systems, and your IT skills will help you navigate data entry tasks where precision is everything.

You’ll become an integral part of a small knit team working on site, on a rotating weekly shift pattern that includes early and late shifts. Whether you’re starting your day before sunrise or wrapping up in the evening, you’ll be part of a mission that truly matters.

Early shift – on-site working pattern

• Monday 0400-1200
• Tuesday 0500-1300
• Wednesday 0500-1300
• Thursday 0430-1200
• Friday 0500-1300

Late shift – on-site working pattern

• Monday 1030-1830
• Tuesday 1130-1930
• Wednesday 1130-1930
• Thursday 1030-1900
• Friday 1030-2000 – Working within these hours

Due to the sensitive nature of the work, this position is reserved for sole UK nationals and will require in-depth security checks (Developed Vetting) before starting the position. The position will have access to very sensitive information; there are restrictions on travelling to a small number of countries and we will undertake additional security checks as part of the recruitment process. Those with connections to certain countries may take considerably longer to process, in some cases the offer of employment may be withdrawn.

What you’ll be doing

• Ensuring accurate receipt, preparation, and despatch of Protectively Marked Material (PMM) (also known as classified mail), requiring the completion of enhanced security training due to handling of PMM.
• Using a combination of bespoke IT, handheld, and manual systems, creating, and maintaining mail dispatch schedules following correct consignment and regulatory processes.
• Using manual handling equipment, with the ability to lift mail items up to 11kg unaided, 30kg assisted, and working collaboratively with others to move heavier items.
• Ability to reach the workplace within an hour of being called and be able to travel to and from work for shifts without the use of public transport, when necessary.
• Always adhering to BFPO and associated security requirements while maintaining the security of the PMM.
• Occasionally supporting Courier Escort / Driver (CED) duties with local tasks in the absences of CEDs, Defence Couriers and military personnel.

Person specification

To be successful with your application, you’ll need to show that you meet the following essential criteria:

• Basic knowledge and experience of using IT systems and MS Office applications. You will receive training to use MOD systems.
• A proven ability to work independently without direct supervision, and as part of a team.
• Experience of producing accurate work whilst working under pressure and to tight schedules.
• Evidence of having strong customer focus and stakeholder engagement.
• Demonstrable recent experience of working in a physically demanding role.

In addition to the responsibilities above, the following technical competences and behaviours will be assessed at interview:

• Core Behaviour 1: Delivering at pace – CSBC2
• Core Behaviour 2: Communicating and influencing – CSBC2
• Technical Competence 1: Customer Service – Awareness
• Technical Competence 2: Making evidence-based decisions – Awareness

Benefits

Alongside your salary of £25,400, Ministry of Defence contributes £7,358 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.

• 25 days’ annual leave +1 day a year up to 30 days, 8 bank holidays and a day off for the King’s birthday
• Market-leading average employer pension contribution of 28.97%
• Annual performance-based bonus and recognition awards
• Access to specialist training and funded qualifications
• Support for progression
• Huge range of discounts
• Volunteering days
• Enhanced parental leave schemes

Improving innovation and enriching our culture, diversity of thought is vital to our success. So, whether you’re looking for a new opportunity, a next step, or a helping hand as you return from a career break, bring your experiences and help deliver for the defence of tomorrow. Here you’ll find a supportive, family-friendly organisation to be a part of – and if you need any assistance with your application, just let us know.

Further Information

• Civil Service Recruitment Principles: Recruitment Principles – Civil Service Commission
• Candidate Information Pack: https://bit.ly/DES-Candidate-Information-Pack
• Terms and Conditions: https://bit.ly/DES-Terms-and-Conditions
• Civil Service Code: The Code – Civil Service Commission 

Any personal data that you provide during the Recruitment process will be treated in accordance with the MOD Privacy Notice which can be accessed here. 

Disability Confident:

Please note as a Disability Confident Leader we want to ensure you receive any reasonable adjustments that you need throughout the recruitment process. If you do require any reasonable adjustments, you can let us know on your online application under the section ‘Please indicate and give details of any reasonable adjustments you may require during the recruitment process.’

Conflicts of Interest:

The Ministry of Defence requires all candidates who are successful at interview to declare any outside interests. These declarations will be discussed with successful candidates following the interview process and before a formal offer of employment is made, as some outside interests may not be compatible with MOD civilian roles. This will not, in the majority of cases, prevent employment in MOD, but it is a measure that must be taken to ensure that appropriate mitigations can be put in place to manage any potential, perceived or actual conflicts of interest from the first day of employment.

Things you need to know

Selection process details

Your application will go through the following stages of assessment:

1. Pre-sift – We will check that you meet any essential or eligibility criteria that are listed in the Person Specification section of this advert. On your CV, please clearly show how you meet the essential criteria.
2. Sift – Your CV will be assessed against the following categories, using a simple numerical scoring system: Key Achievements; Relevant Experience; Applied Knowledge and Skills. Please follow our guidance on CV writing for best chance of success.
3. Interview – If you’re invited to interview, you’ll be assessed against the Sift categories listed above, as well as the Technical Competences and Behaviours listed in the Person Specification section of this advert.

Please Note: In the event of a tied score at interview, the Order of Merit will be distinguished based on the ranking of the assessed behaviours and competencies below:

• 1st: Core Behaviour 1

• 2nd: Core Behaviour 2

• 3rd: Technical Competencies

• 4th: CV Review

In the event of a further tie using the method above, we reserve the right to utilise the Lead criterion, and/or and additional assessment.

If you feel that your application has not been treated in accordance with the Recruitment Principles and you wish to make a complaint, in the first instance you should contact department via email: DESHR-WSC-PMOCOMPLAINTS@mod.gov.uk. If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from the Department, you can contact the Civil Service Commission: Recruitment Complaints – Civil Service Commission

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.