Store Detective

Role summary

You’ll work as a store detective across a group of retail locations, using close observation and sound judgment to help reduce theft and protect stock. The role supports the identification, interception and prosecution of offenders who target the retailer.

Working pattern and location

This is a 45-hour-per-week position, scheduled over 5 days each week, including weekends. The assignment covers Cambridge, Cambridge Beehive, Peterborough Brotherhood, Peterborough Serpentine Green, Huntingdon, Bury St Edmunds and nearby areas.

Pay and travel

The hourly rate is £15.91. Travel costs are covered, including public transport and/or car mileage.

What you’ll do

• Watch for suspicious behaviour, discourage offending and detain individuals involved in criminal activity in line with the Theft Act.
• Use the ASCONE process as part of daily store detective work.
• Work alongside SOC CCTV operators to spot and stop offenders.
• Coordinate with police and other crime-prevention partners to stay informed about local crime patterns.
• Develop local contacts that help disrupt and prevent criminal activity.
• Record incidents clearly and promptly.
• Attend court when required to give evidence.

What the employer is looking for

• Someone who can adapt quickly, as every day across the regional store network may be different.
• A calm, composed approach when under pressure, with the ability to respond fast in difficult situations.
• Previous customer-facing experience and a strong background in customer service.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, ideally supported by GCSE-level English or an equivalent qualification.
• A proactive, improvement-focused mindset with the flexibility to adjust working practices where needed.
• Strong self-drive, a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
• A confident, approachable personality and the ability to work well within an established team.
• A valid frontline SIA licence; previous store detective experience is an advantage.
• Excellent powers of observation, plus the confidence to manage sensitive situations and make quick decisions.
• The confidence to challenge individuals appropriately when needed.

Benefits and development

You’ll have access to a wide range of benefits, including save as you earn, a share incentive plan, cycle-to-work support, life assurance and childcare vouchers. After 6 months, a 20% M&S discount becomes available. The role also includes company-funded SIA licence renewal, ongoing training, a virtual GP service for you and your household, financial wellbeing support through Salary Finance, flexible benefits via Choices, retail and leisure discounts through MiDeals, and recognition rewards through Mitie Stars.

Additional support includes dental insurance, dining cards, coffee clubs, technology purchase options, high street discounts, gym offers, cycle-to-work, life cover of the greater of your annual salary or £10,000, a save-as-you-earn plan, and a Mitie Matching Share Plan with the potential for free shares. There are also monthly and annual cash prizes through the recognition scheme, including a top prize of £10,000.

About the employer

Mitie is a major UK facilities management and professional services business founded in 1987, employing around 80,000 people globally. Its client base includes major names in banking, government, healthcare and education. The company places strong emphasis on training, development, inclusion and career progression.

Additional information

The recruitment process is intended to be inclusive and accessible. If you have a disability or long-term condition and need reasonable adjustments during the hiring process, support can be arranged.

There is also an invitation for current Mitie colleagues who are considering a move but want to stay within the organisation to share their experiences of working there.