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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and manage the safety and rehabilitation of individuals in a high-security environment.
- Company: Join HMP Rochester, a key player in the UK prison system.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, a generous pension scheme, and flexible working hours.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while building a rewarding career.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, meet health standards, and pass assessments.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth.
The predicted salary is between 33500 - 39000 £ per year.
Overview
Prison officer – HMP Rochester
HMP Rochester – 1 Fort Rd, Rochester ME1 3QS
Starting salary: £35,875 (for a 39‑hour week including 20% unsocial hours)
City/Town: Rochester
Region: Kent, Surrey & Sussex
Vacancy type: Merit
This role is not eligible for new Skilled Worker visas in accordance with the current immigration rules.
Key Assessment Areas
- Communicating and influencing
- Managing a quality service
- Making effective decisions
- Caring
Qualifications & Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old at the commencement of employment
- Meet the Civil Service Nationality requirements
- Pass a medical and fitness assessment
- Meet the required eyesight standard in both eyes
- Achieve a suitable standard of hearing without the use of hearing aids
- For safety reasons, meet the hearing standard required for training
- For a high security prison (category A), have been a resident in the UK for the last 3 years
- Tattoos are permitted, including visible ones, provided they are not offensive, discriminatory, violent or intimidating; facial tattoos are generally not acceptable unless culturally, religiously or medically justified
How to Apply
Complete the initial application form. Successful applicants will be invited to an online test to assess basic judgement and numerical skills. Passing the test leads to an invitation to the Online Assessment Centre (OAC). Upon successful completion of the OAC and vacancy allocation, a medical and fitness test will be arranged, covering eyesight, hearing, basic health screening and blood pressure.
Pay and Hours
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. The standard working week for a prison officer is based on a 39‑hour per week shift pattern.
Benefits
- 25 days’ annual holiday (rising to 30 days after 10 years’ service)
- Paid time off for public holidays and 1 extra privilege day
- Civil Service pension with employer contributions of 28.97%
- Cycle to work scheme, travel loans and other benefits
Job Vacancy Status
This is a merit vacancy. After the Online Assessment Centre, the prison will make job offers to individuals with the highest scores first when positions become available. You can stay on the merit list for 12 months. After this, you’ll need to apply again.
Operational Support Grade Role
If you are unsuccessful in becoming a prison officer, you may be offered an alternative role as an operational support grade (OSG).
The Civil Service Code sets out the standards of behaviour expected of Civil Servants.
Diversity & Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. Learn more about the Civil Service People Plan and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy.
Reasonable Adjustment Support
Just tick ‘yes’ when it asks if you think you might need a reasonable adjustment.
Contact for Complaints
Shared Services Connected Ltd: 0845 241 5358 (Monday to Friday 8am – 6pm) or email Moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@gov.sscl.com
202601: Prison Officer - HMP Rochester employer: Ministry of Justice
Contact Detail:
Ministry of Justice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 202601: Prison Officer - HMP Rochester
✨Tip Number 1
Get familiar with the role of a prison officer. Understand the key assessment areas like communicating, managing a quality service, and making effective decisions. This knowledge will help you shine during interviews and assessments.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your judgement and numerical skills before the online test. There are plenty of resources out there, so don’t hesitate to brush up on these areas. We want you to ace that test and move on to the Online Assessment Centre!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for the medical and fitness assessments. Make sure you meet the eyesight and hearing standards, and keep fit! It’s all part of the process, and being prepared will give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen. Plus, staying updated on any new roles or opportunities is super easy when you’re checking in regularly.
We think you need these skills to ace 202601: Prison Officer - HMP Rochester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what makes you unique.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills match the key assessment areas. Show us how you communicate, manage services, and make decisions effectively!
Proofread, Proofread, Proofread!: Before hitting that submit button, give your application a good read-through. Typos and errors can distract from your great qualifications, so let’s keep it professional!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best experience. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to us without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand what being a prison officer entails. Familiarise yourself with the key assessment areas like communicating and influencing, managing a quality service, and making effective decisions. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions during your interview. Think about how you would handle various situations that may arise in a prison environment. Practising your responses can help you articulate your thought process clearly and demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a prison officer, strong communication skills are essential. During the interview, focus on how you convey your thoughts and ideas. Use clear and concise language, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you don’t understand a question. This shows that you’re engaged and willing to communicate effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service values diversity and inclusion, so be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to a positive workplace culture. Share examples from your past experiences where you've worked with diverse groups or promoted inclusivity. This will highlight your alignment with the organisation's values.
