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- Tasks: Support and manage inmates in a high-security environment while ensuring safety and security.
- Company: Join the Civil Service at HMP Stafford, a key player in public safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, a generous pension scheme, and various employee perks.
- 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 - 36000 £ per year.
HMP Stafford, 54 Gaol Rd, Stafford ST16 3AW
Starting salary: £35,875 (for a 39 hour week including 20% unsocial)
City/Town: Stafford
Region: Midlands
Vacancy type: Merit
This role is not eligible for a new Skilled Worker visa in accordance with the current immigration rules.
Assessment Criteria- Communicating and influencing
- Managing a quality service
- Making effective decisions
- Caring
- 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
- For safety reasons, meet a suitable standard of hearing (without the use of hearing aids)
- To work in a high security prison (Category A) you must have been a resident in the UK for the last 3 years
Tattoos are permitted, including visible ones, but must not be deemed offensive, discriminatory, violent or intimidating in any way. Facial tattoos are generally not acceptable, except where they are for cultural, religious or medical reasons.
How to Apply- Complete the initial application form.
- Invite to complete an online test to assess basic judgement and numerical skills.
- If successful, invited to an online assessment centre (OAC).
- Upon successful completion of the OAC and allocation to a vacancy, invited to complete a medical and fitness test (eyesight, hearing, basic health screening).
- 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 of 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
This is a merit job vacancy. If you are successful at the online assessment centre, you will be added to a merit list based on your score. After all applicants have completed the 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 RoleAlthough a driving licence is not a requirement for the Prison Officer role, driving duties are an essential part of the OSG role. Therefore, candidates who are unsuccessful in their Prison Officer application but are offered an OSG role instead must hold a valid UK driving licence. The OAC will not only assess you against the key criteria to become a prison officer but also determine your suitability for appointment as an operational support grade (OSG). If following attendance at your OAC you are unsuccessful in your application to become a prison officer, we may offer you an alternative role as an OSG.
Diversity & InclusionThe Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy.
Reasonable Adjustment SupportJust tick ‘yes’ when it asks if you think you might need a reasonable adjustment.
202601: Prison Officer - HMP Stafford 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 Stafford
✨Tip Number 1
Get familiar with the role! Research what being a Prison Officer at HMP Stafford involves. Understanding the day-to-day responsibilities will help you communicate your passion and suitability during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice those online assessments! They can be a bit tricky, so take some time to brush up on your judgement and numerical skills. There are plenty of resources out there to help us prepare.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former prison officers if you can. They can provide insider tips and insights that could give us an edge in the application process. Plus, it shows our commitment to the role!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen. Plus, we often have updates and resources that can help you along the way. Don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace 202601: Prison Officer - HMP Stafford
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 tailor your application to the Prison Officer role. Highlight your skills in communication, decision-making, and caring for others, as these are key criteria we’re looking for.
Check Your Details: Before hitting that submit button, double-check all your details. Typos or missing information can slow down the process, and we want to get you through as smoothly as possible!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand what being a Prison Officer entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, challenges, and the environment of HMP Stafford. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As a Prison Officer, effective communication is key. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully communicated or influenced others. Think about situations where you managed conflicts or built rapport, as these will highlight your suitability for the role.
✨Showcase Decision-Making Abilities
Be ready to discuss how you make decisions under pressure. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will help you illustrate your thought process and demonstrate that you can handle the demands of the job.
✨Prepare for the Online Assessment Centre
The OAC is a crucial step in the application process. Practice basic judgement and numerical skills beforehand. Familiarise yourself with the format of the assessment and consider doing mock tests to boost your confidence and improve your performance.
