Operational Support Grade - HMP Bullingdon

About the Role

The Operational Support Grade (OSG) at HMP Bullingdon is pivotal in ensuring the smooth functioning of the prison's daily operations. This dynamic position combines administrative responsibilities with physical duties such as security checks, managing deliveries, supervising visitors, and monitoring communications and CCTV across the prison grounds. The role involves walking, lifting, carrying, and escorting vehicles within the facility.

Location and Travel

The prison is located in a rural area of Wendlebury, England, where public transport options may be limited. While having a driving licence and personal transport is advantageous, it is not strictly mandatory unless otherwise specified. Note that shift times are fixed, and punctual attendance is required.

Licensing Requirements

Candidates must possess a valid full UK driving licence, specifically including the D1 category, enabling them to drive vehicles with up to 16 passenger seats, maximum length of 8 meters, and trailers up to 750kg.

Candidate Profile

No formal qualifications are required, but effective communication skills, calmness under pressure, sound judgment, common sense, and the ability to work well within a team are essential. Given the nature of the work, the role entails limited prisoner interaction, though occasional contact may occur depending on the facility.

Shift Pattern

The role requires working various shifts including nights and weekends to maintain continuous operation.

Career Progression and Benefits

Working as an OSG offers profound insight into prison operations and can act as a pathway to other prison roles, including opportunities to transition into the Prison Officer positions through conversion schemes. The employer supports professional growth through comprehensive training and advancement programs.

Compensation and Leave

The position offers a salary of £29,432 annually. Benefits include 25 days of annual leave upon appointment (which increases to 30 days after 10 years of service, calculated pro-rata), 9 days of bank, public, and privilege holidays, access to a paid Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service, participation in the Civil Service pension scheme, and additional perks such as season ticket loans, retail discounts, an Employee Assistance Programme, and a Cycle to Work scheme.