At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead psychological services, conduct risk assessments, and deliver training to enhance safety in Scotland.
- Company: Join the Scottish Prison Service, dedicated to building a safer Scotland.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous annual leave, gym access, and discounts at popular retailers.
- Other info: Flexible working across multiple establishments with strong support for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of individuals while advancing your career in psychology.
- Qualifications: Degree in Psychology, BPS accredited MSc in Forensic Psychology, and HCPC registration required.
The predicted salary is between 37035 - 45265 £ per year.
In the role of Principal Psychologist, you will contribute to the range of functions performed by psychological services, including risk assessment and management, treatment interventions (psychological therapies and offending behaviour interventions), supervision, case-management and training delivery, all of which contribute to the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) vision of helping to build a safer Scotland. Post holders will provide management and leadership to Psychology Department teams within establishments and deliver training to other staff. You will be able to work across more than one establishment, providing variety to your daily role and supporting continued professional development through breadth of experience.
If you have the following, we would like to hear from you:
- Evidence of a degree in Psychology with Graduate basis for registration; a BPS accredited MSC in Forensic Psychology and hold current HCPC registered practitioner status. (Essential)
- Extensive experience of working as a Psychologist within a forensic setting and at least two years’ experience post registration with HCPC as a practitioner. This must include experience of implementing and supervising high intensity offending behaviour programmes. (Essential)
- Extensive experience of psychological risk and risk assessment tools, including writing psychological risk reports and presenting to external agencies such as Parole Board. (Essential)
- Ability to act as designated and/or coordinating supervisor to Forensic Psychologists in Training, to ensure that standards of professional supervision meet the required standard for Chartered Psychologist status. (Essential)
- Ability to manage staff and assist their development to achieve desired outcomes. (Essential)
Some of the benefits you can enjoy in role are:
- This role allows the flexibility of Hybrid working, in line with policy. While the main office location will be SPS HQ there may be some travel to establishments.
- Commitment to your personal and professional development
- Free gym and car parking
- Discounts at high street stores, supermarkets and restaurants through our partners at Blue Light Card, Edenred and Civil Service Sports Council.
- Sick Pay
- Annual Leave - 37 days rising to 42 days
We are committed to your personal and professional development and offer a wide range of career progression opportunities.
Principal Psychologist employer: Scottish Prison Service
The Scottish Prison Service is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional development. With flexible hybrid working options, generous annual leave, and a commitment to collaboration across justice partners, this role as Principal Analyst - Population Insights provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a balanced work-life experience in the heart of Edinburgh.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Psychologist
✨Get Involved in Local Psychological Communities
Join local psychology associations or groups where professionals gather. Whether it’s workshops, conferences, or social events, connecting with others in the field can lead to job opportunities and insider info on unadvertised openings.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re a recent graduate, don’t forget to tap into your university’s career services. They often have exclusive partnerships with organisations looking for fresh talents, plus access to internships that could lead to full-time roles.
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a blog or a LinkedIn page where you share insights about psychology theories or current trends. This not only showcases your knowledge but can help you connect with like-minded professionals and potential employers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you find a role like Principal Psychologist at Scottish Prison Service, make your application stand out by applying directly through our website. This gives you a better chance to be seen by hiring managers. Plus, tailor your application to highlight your passion for psychology and relevant experiences!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Psychologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV with Relevant Experience:In psychology, it’s crucial to highlight your relevant experience, such as internships, research projects, or any volunteer work in mental health settings. Make sure to include specific roles and responsibilities, demonstrating how you've applied theoretical knowledge in real-world situations—this is what gets us excited!
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:Given the nature of psychology, we want to see your academic journey laid out clearly. Include your degree(s), grades, and any specialised courses or certifications that set you apart. If you've got published papers or presentations at conferences, be sure to mention them—it shows your commitment to the field!
Personal Statement: Make It Count:Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Share insights about why you’re passionate about psychology and how this role at Scottish Prison Service connects with your career goals. Be honest about your motivations and what you hope to learn—this is key for a full-time position and helps us gauge your fit in our team!
Focus on Soft Skills in Your Application:Psychology is as much about people as it is about theories. Highlight your soft skills such as communication, empathy, and teamwork in your application. These traits are essential in our field and will help us see how you connect with others, so don't hold back in showcasing them!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Prison Service
✨Brush Up on Key Psychological Theories
Before stepping into the interview with Scottish Prison Service, revisit key psychological theories that are relevant to the role, like cognitive behavioural therapy or humanistic psychology. Expect to discuss these during your interview, as they want to see how you apply theory to practice.
✨Bring Real-Life Case Studies
Prepare a couple of case studies or anecdotes that demonstrate your practical experience in psychology. Whether it’s handling a difficult client or designing a psychological assessment, these stories will highlight your skills and help you stand out in your full-time interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Ethical Guidelines
Get comfy with the ethical guidelines set by the British Psychological Society. Be ready to chat about how you ensure ethical practice in your work, as this is crucial in the psychology field, and Scottish Prison Service will be keen to know you’ve got integrity.
✨Showcase Your Continuous Learning
Since you're going for a full-time gig, it’s essential to demonstrate your commitment to ongoing professional development. Bring up any workshops, courses, or readings you’ve engaged in recently. This shows Scottish Prison Service that you’re not just there for a job, but genuinely passionate about the field.
