Operational Support Grade

HMP Millsike, York (YO41 1FZ)

Salary: £30,372.08 per annum plus excellent benefits

Contract: Permanent, Full Time

Hours: Average 40 hours per week, working a range of shifts including days, evenings, nights, weekends and Bank Holidays. We aim to provide fair, predictable shift patterns to help support a healthy work-life balance.

At HMP Millsike, we're looking for compassionate, resilient and motivated people to join our Operational Support Team. This is a unique opportunity to work in a modern, purpose-built prison where you'll help create a safe, respectful and supportive environment for prisoners, visitors, colleagues and the wider community.

As an Operational Support Grade (OSG), you'll play a vital role in the day-to-day running of the prison. From welcoming visitors and supporting families, to maintaining security and helping ensure the prison operates safely and effectively, no two days are ever the same. No previous prison experience is required. We provide full training and support to help you succeed in your new career.

At HMP Millsike, we are committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. OSG colleagues play an important role across the prison, particularly in areas such as visitor searching, family visits, safeguarding and supporting a positive environment for prisoners and visitors alike. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including those looking for a career change, returning to work after a career break, or seeking a rewarding role where they can make a real difference.

Why Join HMP Millsike?

• Competitive salary of £30,372.08
• Comprehensive paid training programme
• Ongoing professional development opportunities
• Internal career progression pathways
• 33 days annual leave including Bank Holidays
• Overtime opportunities
• Free onsite parking including EV charging points
• Free access to onsite gym facilities
• Subsidised staff canteen with free meal during shifts
• Employee wellbeing and support services
• Blue Light Card discounts

What We're Looking For

We value potential, attitude and personal qualities more than previous experience. Many of our colleagues have joined from backgrounds including retail, healthcare, administration, hospitality and education. We would love to hear from applicants who demonstrate:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Empathy, patience and respect for others
• Resilience and confidence in a challenging environment
• Integrity and sound judgement
• A calm and professional approach under pressure
• The ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Good organisational skills and attention to detail
• Basic IT skills including Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel

If you enjoy working with people, communicating with confidence and making a positive difference, we'd love to hear from you.

About the Role

As an OSG, you'll help keep the prison running safely, securely and efficiently while supporting prisoners, visitors and colleagues.

Visitor Support

Many visitors arrive at the prison feeling anxious, emotional or uncertain. You will play an important role in helping visitors feel welcomed, supported and treated with dignity throughout their visit. This may include:

• Welcoming visitors on arrival
• Carrying out routine searching procedures
• Supporting families during visits
• Answering questions and providing guidance
• Ensuring a safe and positive visitor experience

Security and Operations

You’ll help maintain the safe and secure operation of the prison by:

• Managing entry and exit procedures
• Conducting searches of people, vehicles and property
• Escorting visitors, contractors and vehicles around the site
• Carrying out patrols and security checks
• Monitoring CCTV and security systems
• Operating the prison radio network
• Responding appropriately to incidents and emergencies

Prison Support Activities

You will also support a range of operational duties including:

• Monitoring and processing prisoner mail
• Maintaining records and logs
• Supporting prisoner reception processes
• Assisting with prisoner movements
• Supervising activities when required
• Supporting clothing and property exchanges
• Monitoring the prison telephone system
• Contributing to safeguarding procedures

Working Environment

This is a varied and active role. You will be required to:

• Walk and stand for extended periods
• Work both indoors and outdoors
• Carry out some lifting and carrying activities
• Work independently at times, particularly during night shifts
• Follow security procedures and operational standards

The role requires both physical resilience and strong people skills.

Full Training Provided

Successful applicants will complete a fully funded 2-week Initial Training Course (ITC) at HMP Millsike. This comprehensive training programme will provide the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to carry out the role safely and effectively. Throughout your career, you'll continue to receive support, mentoring and opportunities to develop.

Essential Requirements

To apply, you must:

• Be eligible to work in the UK. Please note that this role is not eligible for new Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current immigration rules.
• Have a moderate level of physical fitness.
• Be able to pass HMPPS security clearance checks, including:
• 10-year employment/activity history
• Financial checks
• Social media screening

This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

Travel Information

HMP Millsike is located in a rural area with limited public transport links. Due to fixed shift times aligned to prison operational requirements, access to your own transport is highly beneficial.

Start a Career That Matters

Whether you're looking for a new challenge, returning to work, or seeking a role where you can make a meaningful impact, HMP Millsike could be the opportunity you've been looking for. Apply today and join a team helping to create safer communities and brighter futures.