Prison Support - HMP Huntercombe

Role overview

This position is for an Operational Support Grade at HMP Huntercombe, part of His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service. The role is varied, active, and essential to the smooth everyday operation of the prison.

You will support a busy custodial environment through a mix of office-based and hands-on duties. Typical tasks include security checks and searches at the gate, handling deliveries, overseeing visitor movement, and observing phone usage and CCTV. The work may also involve physical activity such as lifting, carrying, and walking across prison grounds to escort vehicles.

Travel and attendance

The prison may be in a rural area with limited public transport, so having your own transport can be helpful, although it is not mandatory unless specifically stated. Shift start and end times are fixed, so you must be able to arrive and leave on time for every shift. Please consider the location carefully before applying.

Driving licence requirement

Applicants must hold a full, valid UK driving licence that includes category D1. This category permits driving vehicles with up to 16 passenger seats, a maximum length of 8 metres, and a trailer weighing up to 750 kg.

Person specification

No formal qualifications are needed for this post. The ideal candidate will communicate well, stay composed in pressured situations, and work effectively in a fast-moving environment. Good judgement, practical common sense, and a strong team spirit are important for success in this role.

You will work rotating shifts, including weekends and nights, to help maintain safe and continuous prison operations.

Career value

This role offers a chance to contribute to public safety while supporting vital work inside the prison. Direct contact with prisoners is limited compared with prison officer duties, though occasional interaction may occur depending on the establishment.

The position can also build useful knowledge of prison operations and may open pathways to other roles within the service, including the OSG to Prison Officer conversion route.

Training and progression

You will receive training and access to development opportunities that support progression within the organisation.

Pay and benefits

The salary for this role is £29,432.

• 25 days of annual leave at the start, rising 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
• Access to the Civil Service pension scheme
• Season ticket loans
• Retail discounts
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work scheme