As a Doorkeeper in Black Rod’s Department, you’ll play an important role in supporting the UK’s parliamentary democracy. Your work will help members of the House of Lords carry out their responsibilities effectively — contributing to something bigger than any one role.
You’ll be part of a collaborative community, working alongside colleagues from a wide range of professions. Together, we make Parliament happen.
You’ll be based on the Parliamentary Estate in Westminster — a unique working environment shaped by history and powered by the people who work here today.
What you’ll be doing
Join a prestigious and high-profile team at the heart of the House of Lords, where tradition, security, and exceptional service come together. As part of the Door keeping team, you’ll play a vital role in supporting the smooth and secure operation of the Chamber and surrounding areas, while contributing to some of the UK Parliament’s most iconic ceremonial occasions.
You’ll be a visible and trusted presence, controlling access to key areas, welcoming Members (Peers), guests, and VIPs, and ensuring that everyone experiences the highest standards of service. From managing entrances and assisting visitors to supporting major State occasions such as the State Opening of Parliament, no two days will be the same.
This role places you at the centre of parliamentary life—working closely with Members, supporting Chamber operations, and collaborating with teams across security, visitor services, and events to deliver a seamless and memorable experience.
Please note this role does involve shift-working, for which a generous shift premium allowance is paid – full details are on the job description.
What we’re looking for
We’re looking for someone who can bring their skills and experience to make a meaningful contribution here.
You’ll have:
Team working: Excellent team-working skills together with the experience of working with a variety of people in a diverse & inclusive organisation.
Tact and confidentiality: The ability to resolve issues with tact, sound judgement and impartiality with a good awareness of maintaining confidentiality within sensitive situations
Professionalism: Experience of working to the highest professional standards, whilst conducting your daily duties with ability to follow and understand briefings and directives for high-profile ceremonial events
IT Skills: Experience of using IT packages i.e., Word and Excel.
Flexibility: Ability to adapt and appropriately respond to situations in a fast-paced environment with willingness to work long and sometimes unpredictable and unsocial hours during periods where the House is sitting.
It would be even better if you have:
Previous or current experience of being First Aid trained
Basic understanding of the work of the House of Lords
Ability to recall individuals’ names and faces for recording and access control purposes.
For full details, please see the job description.
What you can expect:
As a Doorkeeper, you will deliver a wide range of front-facing and operational responsibilities, supporting Members, guests and visitors. You’ll need to be confident working in a fast-paced and ever-changing setting, responding to incidents, managing access, and maintaining high standards of service and professionalism at all times
You’ll be part of a community that values your wellbeing, supports your development, and recognises the contribution you make.
You’ll benefit from:
30 days annual leave (rising to 35 after one year), plus public holidays .
A generous Civil Service pension
Access to learning and development across a wide range of roles and professions
Support for your health and wellbeing
The opportunity to be at the heart of UK parliamentary democracy
We know flexibility matters. Wherever possible, we’ll support working patterns that work for you — including hybrid working, job share or adjusted hours. We’ll be open about what’s possible for this role.
