Probation Service Officer in Southampton

The job holder will undertake the full range of work with people on probation before and after sentence, including assessment, sentence implementation, offender management and producing reports. The role provides case management support to a full range of people on probation, utilising service procedures and professional judgement.

Right to Work in the UK: All applicants must have the right to work in the UK. The role is not eligible for a new Skilled Worker visa. From 22 July 2025, the Government introduced changes to Skilled Worker visa eligibility. HMPPS can only sponsor a trainee who has held a Skilled Worker visa prior to these changes. Applicants who meet this condition should raise it during pre‑employment checks.

About the Probation Service: The Probation Service protects the public by managing offenders in the community and helping them turn their lives around. Join us and be part of a supportive team that values knowledge sharing and expertise. Successful applicants may be based at a variety of office, court, or prison locations within the region.

Recruitment Process: Apply via the short online form and answer the Civil Service behaviour and experience questions. In high volume circumstances, only the lead behaviour may be assessed. Progress updates will be provided at each stage. No guarantee of progression beyond the initial assessment.

Responsibilities:

• Complete a full assessment of offenders on probation before and after sentence.
• Implement sentencing decisions and manage offender risk.
• Produce accurate reports on a tight deadline.
• Support offenders through practical advice on housing, employment and other needs.
• Provide information to courts and collaborate with agencies across the justice system.
• Carry out regular supervision, monitoring and disengagement activities.

Qualifications & Personal Attributes:

• No degree required – emphasis on experience with people facing social or personal difficulties.
• Empathetic, patient and resilient.
• Strong written communication skills – clear, concise reporting under pressure.
• Good interpersonal and influencing skills, including the ability to manage risk and support offenders.

Experience & Behaviours:

• Experience of working with offenders or individuals with personal difficulties.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Experience of managing complexity and developing solutions within a multi‑agency environment.
• Evidence of delivering results at pace while maintaining high quality service.
• Capacity to influence and engage stakeholders and to manage conflicting demands.

Benefits and Working Conditions:

• Hybrid working arrangements where business need allows, with base office location within 60 minutes of home.
• Full‑time 37 hours per week (excluding unpaid breaks).
• Part‑time, flexible and job‑sharing arrangements are available.
• Annual leave: 25 days on appointment rising to 30 days after five years of service.
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) via the Greater Manchester Pension Fund.
• Training and development opportunities through the Ministry of Justice.
• Employee‑run networks for minorities, disability, caring responsibilities, women, LGBTI+ and veterans.
• Support for childcare through the Government childcare support schemes.
• Paid maternity, paternity, adoption and family leave.
• Free annual sight tests for employees who use computer screens.

Complaints & Inquiries:

• To Transformative Business Services: 0345 241 5358 (Mon‑Fri 8am‑6pm)
• To Ministry of Justice Resourcing team: resourcing-management-office@justice.gov.uk
• To the Civil Service Commission (details on annual report).

Diversity and Inclusion: The Civil Service is committed to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including veterans and those with long‑term conditions.

Employment Details: Starting salary will be £26,475, with annual progression through the Competency Based Framework (CBF). New entrants share the minimum pay band entry rate. All candidates are subject to security and identity checks prior to taking up post.