Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: As a Prison Officer, you'll protect the public and support offenders in their rehabilitation.
- Company: Join HM Prison and Probation Service, a vital part of the UK justice system.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 25 days holiday, and perks like retail discounts and childcare vouchers.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed; just bring your empathy, communication skills, and teamwork spirit.
- Other info: Expect varied shifts and the chance to specialise as you grow in your career.
The predicted salary is between 27400 - 36500 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Prison Officer role at HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS). An extraordinary job. Done by someone like you.
Prison officers protect the public and help to make a positive impact on people's lives. If you have the integrity, skills and strength of character we’re looking for, this fast-paced role could be the start of a successful career. No two days or situations are ever the same. And, as you gain experience, you’ll find a range of opportunities to grow and develop.
There’s no such thing as a typical prison officer. Our people come from different walks of life, just like the offenders they work with. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, have worked in retail or the armed forces, you’ll have developed the empathy, self-confidence and great communication skills we expect. No matter the challenge, you’ll take the time to build constructive, positive and professional relationships with offenders who could be at the lowest point in their lives.
Teamwork plays a vital role in this environment, so you’ll need to be fully committed to supporting your colleagues and understand the importance of acting as one team to keep the prison, offenders and everyone who works here safe. You will be required to work various shifts and weekends.
In this unique career, you’ll have the opportunity to carry out many different roles in any one day. One minute you’re a peacekeeper, the next you’re a counsellor or a teacher. You’ll work directly with prisoners in a unique environment, helping to protect the public and make a positive impact.
What You Can Expect From Us
You’ll be given great training and opportunities for progression and development - including the chance to specialise in different areas. There’s a good salary to look forward to, as well as 25 days’ holiday allowance each year, childcare vouchers, season ticket loans, retail discounts, Employee Assistance Programme and Cycle to Work scheme. The rewards aren’t all you’ll gain from a role in the prison service. There’s the sense of achievement you feel when you’ve helped an offender to get their life back on track - the kind of experience you simply won’t find anywhere else.
How To Apply
If the qualities in this role sound like you, apply now.
Prison Officer 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 Prison Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the values and mission of HM Prison and Probation Service. Understanding their commitment to rehabilitation and public safety will help you align your responses during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience that showcases your ability to handle challenging situations, whether from previous jobs or personal experiences. This could include roles in customer service, teaching, or even volunteering, as they all require strong communication and empathy skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former prison officers if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day realities of the job and may even offer tips on how to stand out during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for situational questions by thinking about how you would respond to various scenarios you might face as a prison officer. Practising these responses can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of a Prison Officer at HM Prison and Probation Service. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any experience that showcases your ability to communicate effectively, work in a team, and handle challenging situations. This could include roles in teaching, retail, or the armed forces.
Showcase Your Values: Demonstrate your integrity, empathy, and commitment to helping others in your application. Use specific examples to illustrate how you have positively impacted others' lives in previous roles.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this specific role. Address the key qualities mentioned in the job description and explain how you embody them, ensuring your passion for the role shines through.
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS)
✨Show Your Empathy
As a prison officer, you'll be working with individuals who may be at their lowest. Demonstrating empathy during your interview can highlight your ability to connect with offenders and help them on their journey to rehabilitation.
✨Emphasise Teamwork Skills
Teamwork is crucial in a prison environment. Be prepared to discuss examples from your past experiences where you successfully collaborated with others, showcasing your commitment to supporting colleagues and maintaining safety.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving and decision-making skills. Think about how you would handle various situations, such as conflicts or emergencies, and articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be ready to provide examples of how you've used your communication skills in previous jobs, whether in teaching, retail, or any other field, to build rapport and resolve issues.
