Describe your sector in a nutshell.
The Borders and Coastguard Agency was established in 2011. The Agency contributes to the overall security of Gibraltar which, among its other functions, has the main statutory responsibility to carry out immigration control at points of entry in Gibraltar and carry out passenger, staff, cargo, vehicle and baggage checks at all air and passenger terminals and ports on a 24/7/365 basis.
Core Values
We are committed to ensure that we provide a service to improve the visitor and passenger experience without compromising security; and to improving the service by contributing to the security of Gibraltar, acting as facilitators and working in partnership with the private sector.
What are the different career opportunities/jobs available in your sector?
The Agency works closely with other agencies and authorities locally and abroad to carry out its duties.
Recruitment commences at the level of Borders and Coastguard Officers where the Agency enjoys a complement of 99 officers. At the operational level, this will allow them to progress by applying to form part of the Operations Control Centre team, who monitor all movements at the Gibraltar Airport and be promoted to Senior Borders and Coastguard Officers where 16 officers are engaged in managing the various posts where all officers are deployed during their shifts
The Agency also employs 2 Duty Managers who are responsible for managing the two shifts comprising the 115 operational officers of the Agency.
Opportunities may also arise to apply for a non-operational grade at its Headquarters, where the Chief Executive Officer, works closely with the Head of Immigration and its Deputy, the Compliance Manager, the Immigration Clearance / Compliance Officer and Compliance Officer. Vacancies may also arise within the Training Team who are also located at the Agency’s Headquarters. This is made up of the Training Manager who, together with 2 Training Officers, are responsible to ensure that all operational officers are certified and fully compliant with all relevant security regulations and immigration protocols.
What’s interesting/fun about your sector/industry? Why should a young person want to work there?
The main duality of our duties i.e. carrying out functions as Immigration Officers at all entry points into Gibraltar and responsibilities as Security Officers at the Gibraltar International Airport, makes the role of our officers diverse, challenging and engaging.
What skills/qualities do you seek in someone wanting to join your sector?
Considering the role of the Agency, all officers must have a wide variety of skills to carry out their duties, mainly:
- Attention to detail when reviewing documentation and monitoring activities to ensure accuracy and compliance
- Strong verbal and communications skills are essential for reporting, liaising with other agencies, and interacting with individuals entering the country
- Understand and respect different cultures, crucial for dealing with international travellers and ensuring fair treatment.
- Ability to work effectively within a team environment and interact positively with colleagues and various stakeholders.
- Ability to assess situations and quickly make informed decisions with confidence and competence regarding border security issues, often in high-pressure situations.
- Ability to adapt to changing situations and persist through challenging conditions.
- Understanding of immigration laws, border regulations, and security protocols.
- Ability to remain calm and take appropriate actions during emergencies or crises
What is demand looking like in your sector? How do you think this will change in the future?
The core role of the Agency is not envisaged to change in the future that there may be a period of adaptability depending on the outcome of the current negotiations between the UK and EU in relation to the possible application of Schengen in Gibraltar to allow free movement of people to/from the EU after the UK voted to exit the EU in 2016.
What is the approximate salary range people can earn?
At the entry level of a Borders & Coastguard Officers salaries are subject to annual increments within a 10 spine point system. Salaries commence at £29,955 on the first scale, to £41,292 on the last scale, these are inclusive of a Shift Disturbance, Rummage and Continuous Professional Development allowances. Officers also get paid an Operational Flexibility Allowance and Weekend Premiums, when relevant.
What career pathways are available for a young person wanting to join your sector? (University and non-university routes)
There are at present no particular route for a person to join our organisation other than those persons who are already employed in the Public Service.
Any advice to a young person wanting to join your sector
Anyone interested in pursuing a career with our Agency should contact us to arrange an introductory talk to be given by our Training Department.
