An Extraordinary Job for Extraordinary Individuals
Are you ready to positively impact lives and contribute to public safety? His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service is seeking dedicated Prison Officers to join its team in London. This is an opportunity to build a rewarding career while helping to rehabilitate individuals and improve society.
Position Details
- Position: Prison Officer
- Salary: £36,082–£40,632 per annum
- Job Type: FullTime, PartTime, Job Share, Flexible Working
- Location: London
About the Role
Prison officers play a vital role in protecting the public while helping prisoners rebuild their lives. This dynamic job requires adaptability, empathy, and resilience as you work in an environment where every day presents a unique challenge.
You’ll take on diverse responsibilities: one moment you’re a peacekeeper, the next a teacher or a counselor. Above all, you’ll provide care and understanding to individuals who are often at their most vulnerable.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Building constructive, positive relationships with prisoners.
- Ensuring the safety and security of the prison.
- Supporting colleagues in a highly collaborative environment.
Eligibility Requirements
General Requirements:
- Age: At least 18 years old at the time of employment.
- Physical Fitness: You must pass a medical and fitness assessment.
- Hearing & Vision Standards: Must meet specific eyesight and hearing requirements.
- Tattoos: Tattoos are allowed but must not be offensive, discriminatory, violent, or intimidating. Facial tattoos are generally unacceptable except for cultural, religious, or medical reasons.
- Residency: Proof of UK residency for the last 3 years is required for CounterTerrorism Check (CTC) vetting.
Nationality:
This role is open to:
- UK Nationals
- Citizens of the Republic of Ireland
- Nationals of Commonwealth countries with the right to work in the UK
- Individuals with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
For additional details, refer to the Nationality Requirements section.
Essential Skills
While no qualifications are required, personal qualities are vital. To succeed as a prison officer, you’ll need
- Strong Communication Skills: The ability to influence and connect with people.
- Empathy and Understanding: Supporting individuals during challenging moments.
- Effective Decision-Making: Balancing care and control in complex situations.
- Commitment to Teamwork: Collaborating closely with colleagues to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
Pay & Working Hours
Salary Based on Weekly Hours:
- 37 hours/week: £36,082 per year
- 39 hours/week: £38,357 per year
- 40 hours/week: £40,632 per year
Prisons operate 24/7, meaning shifts may include evenings, nights, weekends, and public holidays. Most prisons work with a standard 39-hour week, though overtime opportunities may be available.
Nationality Requirements
This role is open to:
- UK Nationals
- Citizens of the Republic of Ireland
- Nationals of Commonwealth countries with the right to work in the UK.
- EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein nationals and their family members with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS). https://www.gov.uk/settled-status-eu-citizens-families
- Individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain, eligible under the EUSS on or before 31 December 2020.
- Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the civil service.
From 4 April 2024, salary threshold changes for Skilled Worker visas mean sponsorship is not guaranteed for applicants seeking sponsorship through this route. Applicants will need to ensure they have or can maintain the legal right to work in the UK under the Civil Service nationality guidelines.
Benefits
Prison officers enjoy a range of benefits, including
- Annual Leave: 25 days (rising to 30 days after 10 years).
- Public Holiday Entitlement: Paid time off for public holidays plus one extra privilege day.
- Pension: Generous civil service pension with employer contributions of 28.97%.
- Career Progression: Opportunities to grow and develop within HMPPS.
- Additional Perks: Cycletowork scheme, travel loans, and more.
Assessment Process: The recruitment process evaluates your behaviours, strengths, and abilities, ensuring you have the skills to excel as a prison officer.
Stages Include:
- Online Tests: Assess your judgment, numerical skills, and suitability for the role.
- Online Assessment Centre (OAC): Evaluate your communication skills, decision-making, and natural strengths.
- Pre-Employment Checks: Includes Enhanced Level 2 vetting and Counter-Terrorism Check (CTC) for high-security prisons.
Application Process
Required Documents:
How to Apply: Interested candidates can apply directly through the official website here.
Application Deadline
Submit your application by 22 April 2025.
Make a Difference
This is your chance to embark on a career that truly matters. As a prison officer, you’ll not only ensure public safety but also contribute to creating a better future for offenders.
Ready to make an impact? Apply today!
