Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support daily prison operations, from security checks to managing deliveries and monitoring CCTV.
- Company: Join His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service, a vital part of public safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, a Civil Service pension, and access to discounts and training.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while gaining unique insights into prison operations and career progression.
- Qualifications: No formal qualifications needed; just bring good communication skills and a calm demeanour.
- Other info: Flexible shifts including weekends and nights; potential for career advancement within the service.
The predicted salary is between 23800 - 31700 £ per year.
As an Operational Support Grade, you will play a key part in supporting the day-to-day running of a busy prison. You will be part of a supportive team doing all sorts of things – from security and searches at the gate, to managing deliveries, supervising visitors, and monitoring phone calls and CCTV. It’s a varied and active job involving tasks which combine some desk duties with more physical tasks such as lifting, carrying and walking to escort vehicles across the prison grounds.
You don’t need any qualifications to do this job, but if you are a good communicator and can keep calm under pressure, this fast-paced role could be the start of a successful career for you. Helping to keep a prison running smoothly and safely, you will have good judgement and common sense, and, above all, be a great team player.
As an OSG, you will work a variety of shifts, including weekend and night shifts, to keep things running. In this unique career, you’ll have the opportunity to protect the public and make an impact on lives by supporting the important work happening daily in our prisons. Unlike our prison officers, your contact with prisoners is limited, although depending on the particular prison you may interact with prisoners occasionally. The OSG role will give you significant knowledge and experience of how a prison operates. It can provide opportunities to move into other prison jobs, including opportunities to apply for the OSG to Prison Officer conversion scheme.
What You Can Expect From Us
- You’ll be given great training and opportunities for progression and development.
- Annual leave is 25 days on appointment and will increase to 30 days after 10 years’ service (calculated on a pro-rata basis).
- 9 days bank, public and privilege holidays.
- Access to a paid Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service.
- Access to the generous Civil Service pension scheme.
- Season ticket loans, retail discounts, an Employee Assistance Programme and a Cycle to Work scheme.
If this sounds like you, apply now.
Operational Support Grade employer: HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS)
Contact Detail:
HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Support Grade
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the daily operations of a prison. Understanding the environment and the various roles within it can help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and readiness for the Operational Support Grade position during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your communication skills in conversations or interviews. Since this role requires good judgement and the ability to remain calm under pressure, be prepared to share examples from your past experiences that showcase these qualities.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of HM Prison and Probation Service. They can provide valuable insights into the role and the work culture, which can help you tailor your approach when applying.
✨Tip Number 4
Be flexible with your availability. Since the OSG role involves various shifts, including nights and weekends, showing that you are open to working different hours can make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Support Grade
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and skills required for the Operational Support Grade position. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and remain calm under pressure in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects relevant experiences that demonstrate your teamwork, judgement, and common sense. Include any previous roles or activities that showcase your ability to handle physical tasks and work in a fast-paced environment.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your personal qualities and experiences to the requirements of the role. Emphasise your enthusiasm for supporting the day-to-day operations of a prison and your commitment to public safety.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS)
✨Show Your Communication Skills
As an Operational Support Grade, you'll need to communicate effectively with your team and visitors. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and listen actively. Share examples of past experiences where your communication skills made a difference.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
This role can be fast-paced and sometimes stressful. Be prepared to discuss how you've handled challenging situations in the past. Highlight your ability to remain composed and make sound decisions when faced with pressure.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Being a great team player is crucial for this position. Talk about your experiences working in teams, how you contribute to group dynamics, and any specific instances where you helped your team achieve a goal. This will show that you understand the importance of collaboration.
✨Demonstrate Good Judgement
The role requires good judgement and common sense. Prepare to discuss scenarios where you've had to make quick decisions or assess situations critically. This will help illustrate your ability to think on your feet and act responsibly in various circumstances.
