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- Tasks: As a Prison Officer, you'll maintain order and support offenders in transforming their lives.
- Company: Join the Scottish Prison Service, dedicated to building a safer Scotland.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £28,425, progressing to £32,200; shift work with varied patterns.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while enjoying a rewarding and challenging role.
- Qualifications: Must have the right to work in the UK; no visa sponsorship available.
- Other info: Applications close on 31 January 2025; be part of a team that empowers change.
The predicted salary is between 28425 - 32200 £ per year.
Starting salary of £28,425 progressing to £32,200 within 3 years, subject to pay progression
Shift work
The Scottish Prison Service is now recruiting for Prison Officers – Operations to join us throughout 2025/2026.
As an Operations Officer, you will be in an almost unique position of being able to make a real difference to the community that you live in and be at the very heart of delivering the SPS’ vision of ‘Helping to build a safer Scotland by Unlocking Potential and Transforming Lives’.
Your role will be challenging and immensely rewarding with responsibility for maintaining custody and order whilst facilitating opportunities for those in our care. You will influence and encourage offenders to maintain contact with their families, access education and training and ultimately assist them on their journey to be contributory citizens within our communities.
Contributing towards the prevention and management of challenging behaviour; you will provide safe and secure custodial services that empower offenders to take responsibility and transform their lives.
In this role you will be responsible for the overall functioning and security of the establishment, working as part of a team and carrying out roles in Front of House, Visits, Electronic Control Room, Patrol and Prisoner Reception.
Please note: as part of the Operations Officer role, you will be expected to work shifts in line with a set roster. These shifts will cover a variety of working patterns including; early shift, day shift, back shift and night shift.
Closing date: 17 April 2025.
Applicants please note: The Scottish Prison Service is not a licenced Sponsor and Visa Sponsorship is not available for this role.
For the role you have applied for you must have the right to work in the UK and Civil Service.
Prison Officer - Operations employer: Scottish Prison Service
Contact Detail:
Scottish Prison Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Officer - Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the Scottish Prison Service's mission and values. Understanding their vision of 'Helping to build a safer Scotland by Unlocking Potential and Transforming Lives' will help you align your motivations and experiences with what they are looking for in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have in working with challenging behaviors or in community service roles. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the responsibilities of maintaining custody and order while also supporting offenders in their rehabilitation.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your approach to teamwork and communication. As an Operations Officer, you'll be part of a team, so showcasing your ability to collaborate effectively and maintain clear communication will be crucial during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Since the role involves shift work, be ready to talk about your flexibility and adaptability. Share examples of how you've successfully managed varying schedules in the past, as this will show that you're prepared for the demands of the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Officer - Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Prison Officer - Operations position. Understand the responsibilities and expectations, especially regarding shift work and community impact.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role. Emphasize any previous work in security, community service, or roles that required teamwork and communication.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that reflects your passion for making a difference in the community. Discuss how your values align with the Scottish Prison Service's vision of transforming lives and building a safer Scotland.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Prison Service
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the responsibilities of a Prison Officer - Operations. Familiarize yourself with the Scottish Prison Service's vision and how your role contributes to building a safer Scotland.
✨Demonstrate Your Values
During the interview, highlight your commitment to rehabilitation and community safety. Share examples from your past experiences that showcase your ability to influence and encourage positive change in others.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenging behavior. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies in these situations.
✨Show Teamwork Skills
Emphasize your ability to work as part of a team. Discuss any previous experiences where you collaborated with others to achieve a common goal, especially in high-pressure environments.
