CCTV operator job description

CCTV operators must hold a valid security licence appropriate to their state or territory. A national police check is mandatory for obtaining and maintaining a security licence. Computer literacy and technical aptitude are essential as the role involves operating complex surveillance systems and recording equipment. Use HR software to track licence expiry dates and certifications.

Yes, a valid security licence is mandatory for CCTV operators in Australia. Licensing requirements vary by state and territory. Operators typically require a Control Room Operator licence or equivalent qualification. Licences must be kept current and displayed or available for inspection at all times.

Look for previous experience in security monitoring, CCTV operations or control room environments. Essential skills include ability to maintain concentration during long shifts, multitasking across multiple screens, report writing, and coordinating with security teams. Experience with specific surveillance software platforms is valuable.

While experience is preferred, entry-level CCTV operators can be hired if they hold the required security licence and demonstrate strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and ability to handle the demanding nature of control room work. Comprehensive on-the-job training in site-specific systems and procedures is typically provided.

This depends on your operational requirements and client contracts. Permanent staff provide consistency for 24/7 monitoring operations and develop deep familiarity with systems and sites. Casuals offer flexibility for covering leave and managing variable shift requirements. Many security companies use a mix of both. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Penalty rates under the Security Services Industry Award 2020 apply for: Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, evening shifts, and night shifts. CCTV monitoring often requires 24/7 coverage, so penalty rates are common. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020, minimum engagement periods apply — typically 2 hours for casual employees and 4 hours for part-time employees. However, CCTV control room shifts are commonly 8-12 hours to ensure adequate surveillance coverage and minimise handover frequency. Check the award for specific requirements.

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate, applicable award, reporting structure, main duties, work locations and control room sites, shift patterns and hours, uniform and security equipment requirements, and confidentiality obligations. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020, rosters must be provided at least 7 days in advance for part-time employees. Changes within this period require employee agreement. For casual employees, reasonable notice should be provided. Using rostering software helps support compliance and gives staff visibility of their upcoming shifts.

24/7 control room operations typically use 8-hour or 12-hour shift rotations. Longer shifts reduce handover frequency but require adequate breaks to maintain concentration. Consider rotating day, afternoon and night shifts to distribute the impact of unsociable hours. Some operations use fixed shifts where operators consistently work the same time periods.

Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break. Paid rest breaks also apply based on shift length. For control room operations, break coverage must be planned to ensure continuous monitoring. Use rostering software to manage breaks effectively.

Plan rosters to ensure continuous coverage of all monitoring stations, match operator skills to shift complexity (busier periods may need more experienced staff), allow adequate handover time between shifts, and consider operator fatigue when scheduling consecutive shifts. Use rostering software to improve schedules and ensure 24/7 coverage.