At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure safety and security in the prison while supporting and counselling prisoners.
- Company: Join HMP Onley, a vital part of the UK's justice system.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, a generous pension, and various perks.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while building a rewarding career.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, fit for duty, and have strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 35875 - 35875 £ per year.
Prison Officer – HMP Onley, Rugby (Warwickshire, CV23 8AP). Full‑time role with a 39‑hour week (incl. 20% unsocial hours). Location: Rugby, East Midlands. Starting salary: £35,875 per year for the 39‑hour week.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain safety and security within the prison.
- Provide care, support and counselling to prisoners.
- Implement and enforce the prison’s rules and procedures.
- Collaborate with colleagues and external agencies to manage prisoner behaviour.
- Adapt to changing shift patterns, including evenings, nights, weekends and public holidays.
Overall Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Meet Civil Service nationality requirements.
- Pass a medical and fitness assessment (eyesight, hearing, general fitness).
- Meet the required eyesight standard in both eyes, with or without correction.
- Have a suitable hearing standard (no hearing aids).
- Tattoos permitted only if they are not offensive, discriminatory, violent or intimidating; facial tattoos not acceptable unless for cultural, religious or medical reasons.
- For a Category A/high‑security prison, be a UK resident for the last 3 years.
Nationalities – EEO Statement
- Republic of Ireland nationals.
- Commonwealth nationals with the right to work in the UK.
- EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein nationals and family members who have valid settled or pre‑settled status under the 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 who have the right to work in the Civil Service.
Essential Skills
- Communication and influencing skills.
- Commitment to quality service.
- Personal care and understanding of prisoner needs.
Pay and Working Hours
- 37 hours a week = £33,746 per year.
- 39 hours a week = £35,875 per year.
- 41 hours a week = £38,003 per year.
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 28.97% employer contribution.
- Cycle to work scheme, travel loan and other benefits.
Travel to Work
A driving licence and own transport are beneficial, though not essential unless specified. Shift start and finish times are fixed; applicants must ensure timely arrival for each shift.
Closing Date
Job opens on 10 June 2026.
Prison Officer - HMP Onley in Rugby employer: Ministry of Justice
HMP Onley offers a rewarding career as a Prison Officer in Rugby, where you will play a vital role in maintaining safety and security while providing support to prisoners. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive salaries, and generous benefits including a Civil Service pension and annual leave that increases with service, HMP Onley fosters a supportive work culture that values teamwork and personal growth. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of others while enjoying a fulfilling career in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Officer - HMP Onley in Rugby
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former prison officers on LinkedIn or at local events. They can give you the inside scoop on what it’s really like and might even help you get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions. Think about scenarios where you've demonstrated communication and influencing skills, as these are key for the role. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your commitment to quality service during the interview. Share examples of how you've gone above and beyond in previous roles. This will highlight your dedication to supporting prisoners and maintaining safety.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Officer - HMP Onley in Rugby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Prison Officer. We want to see how you can maintain safety and security while providing care and support to prisoners.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since communication is key in this role, use your application to demonstrate your ability to influence and connect with others. Share examples of how you've effectively communicated in challenging situations.
Be Honest About Your Availability:The job requires adapting to various shift patterns, so be upfront about your availability. We appreciate transparency, and it helps us understand how you fit into our team dynamics.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Prison Officer. Understand the importance of maintaining safety and security, as well as providing care and support to prisoners. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Prison Officer, strong communication and influencing skills are essential. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've effectively communicated or resolved conflicts. This will show that you can handle challenging situations with ease.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions during the interview. Think about how you would respond to various situations involving prisoner behaviour or emergencies. Practising these scenarios will help you articulate your thought process and decision-making skills.
✨Demonstrate Adaptability
The role requires adapting to changing shift patterns, so be prepared to discuss your flexibility and willingness to work evenings, nights, and weekends. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your ability to adjust to different schedules or environments.
