Detention Custody Officer in Surrey

Gatwick Immigration Removal Centre, RH6 0PQ

Full-Time, Permanent £29,563 rising to £32,653

Are you compassionate and resilient? Are you interested in secure and meaningful work? Join our team as a Detention Custody Officer (DCO) at Gatwick Immigration Removal Centre. This isn’t your typical security role – you’ll use your strengths as you work with people during what’s often the most difficult period of their lives.

What you’ll do

• You’ll maintain a safe, secure environment while treating everyone with dignity and respect.
• The people in our care come from all walks of life – some are awaiting asylum decisions, others have completed prison sentences.
• What they all have in common is that they need someone who can remain calm, professional and empathetic even in challenging situations.
• This is hands-on work. You’ll be dealing with people who may be confused, frightened, angry or distressed.
• Your ability to communicate clearly, de-escalate tensions and show genuine care can make all the difference.

Hours and pay

• 40 hours per week on average
• A mix of day and night shifts (6-12 hours each)
• A structured rota system, ensuring fair distribution
• A starting salary of £29,563, increasing to £32,653 after 6 months

Important note on location: Public transport links are limited, so ideally you’ll live within 30 miles of the Centre. We run a free minibus from Gatwick Airport (Atlantic House) for employees using public transport.

What we offer

• Training that sets you up for success: You’ll complete a comprehensive 7-week training programme (fully paid) before you start. This covers everything from conflict resolution to cultural awareness, giving you the confidence and skills to handle whatever comes your way.
• Room to grow: This role can be a stepping stone to leadership positions or specialist roles within Serco. We’re invested in helping our people develop their careers long-term.
• Benefits worth having: 224 hours of annual leave (including bank holidays), pension contributions matched up to 6%, free parking on site, paid breaks during night shifts, subsidised meals (plus one free meal per day), full uniform provided, employee discounts through Serco Benefits and Blue Light Card.

What we’re looking for

• You don’t need previous experience in this field, but you do need strong communication skills and emotional intelligence.
• The ability to stay calm under pressure.
• Respect for people from all backgrounds and cultures.
• Physical and mental resilience.
• A genuine desire to help people in difficult circumstances.
• Experience working with vulnerable groups or in multicultural environments would be valuable but isn’t essential.

Our application process

• Step 1: Complete your online application
• Step 2: Virtual interview (1 hour via Microsoft Teams) if shortlisted
• Step 3: Assessment day including group exercises, fitness test and site tour
• Step 4: 7-week training course (full attendance is required)

Checks and vetting

This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules, as it does not meet the required salary or skill level criteria. Whilst we encourage applications to other roles, candidates who already have a valid right to work in the UK through other immigration routes or permissions must meet the below minimum eligibility criteria:

• Hold indefinite leave to remain
• Have lived in the UK for at least three years

For general right-to-work guidance, please visit the UK Home Office website. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, all offers of employment are subject to security clearance checks and approval by the Home Office. You will be required to obtain Home Office CTC.