At a Glance
- Tasks: Support rehabilitation and maintain safety in a dynamic prison environment.
- Company: Join HMP Whitemoor, a vital part of the UK justice system.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, a generous pension, and flexible working hours.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and additional paid hours available.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while building a rewarding career.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, with strong communication and decision-making skills.
The predicted salary is between 35875 - 35875 £ per year.
Location: Whitemoor, Longhill Rd, March PE15 0PR
Region: East Midlands
Vacancy type: Merit
Starting salary: £35,875 (for a 39 hour week including 20% unsocial hours)
Eligibility
- At least 18 years old at the point of commencement of employment
- Meet the Civil Service Nationality requirements
- Pass a medical and fitness assessment as part of the application process
- Meet the required eyesight standard in both eyes (with and without corrective lenses)
- Have suitable hearing (without the use of hearing aids) for safety reasons
- Tattoos are permitted provided they are not offensive, discriminatory, violent or intimidating; facial tattoos are generally not acceptable unless for cultural, religious or medical reasons
- Proof of residency in the UK for the last 3 years is required for Counter‑Terrorism Check (CTC) vetting.
Nationality requirements
- UK nationals
- Nationalities of the Republic of Ireland
- Nationalities of Commonwealth countries with the right to work in the UK
- Nationalities of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre‑settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
- Individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for 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
Essential skills
- Communication and influencing skills
- Commitment to quality
- Effective decision‑making
- Care and understanding
Pay
The initial training is 37 hours a week. After training, you can choose to work 37, 39 or 41 hours a week. Your annual salary will reflect your weekly hours.
- 37 hours a week = £33,746 a year
- 39 hours a week = £35,875 a year
- 41 hours a week = £38,003 a year
All salary figures quoted include any additional allowances that might be applicable to the role/location.
Benefits
- 25 days’ annual holiday (rising to 30 days after 10 years’ service)
- Paid time off for public holidays and one extra privilege day
- Civil Service pension with employer contributions of 28.97%
- Cycle to work scheme, travel loans and other benefits
Assessment Process
- Communicating and influencing
- Managing a quality service
- Making effective decisions
- Caring
Your numerical, written English and spoken English abilities will also be assessed. You must be able to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence in English.
Working hours and shift patterns
Prisons operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You will cover various shift patterns that include evenings, nights, weekends and public holidays (these days are added to your holiday allowance). Most prisons use a 39 hour week with a changing shift pattern. You may also have opportunities to work additional paid hours.
Security checks
- DBS Enhanced
- Counter‑Terrorism Check (CTC)
Contact information
For assistance, call 0345 241 5358 (Monday to Friday 8am‑6pm) or e‑mail MoJ‑recruitment‑vetting‑enquiries@gov.sscl.com. Please quote the job reference 18580.
Closing date 25-Jun-2026
202606: Prison Officer - HMP Whitemoor in March employer: Ministry of Justice
HMP Whitemoor is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and a robust pension scheme, staff are encouraged to develop their skills while making a meaningful impact in the community. Located in the East Midlands, this role provides unique opportunities to engage with diverse individuals and contribute to rehabilitation efforts within a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 202606: Prison Officer - HMP Whitemoor in March
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Ministry of Justice, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Ministry of Justice and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace 202606: Prison Officer - HMP Whitemoor in March
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Ministry of Justice and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Ministry of Justice, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Ministry of Justice.
