Prison Support - HMP Huntercombe

Role overview

HMP Huntercombe is hiring an Operational Support Grade (Prison Support) to help keep the prison running safely and efficiently. This position sits within His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service and involves supporting daily operations in a busy custodial environment.

What the job involves

You will work as part of a collaborative team handling a mix of operational and practical duties. The role includes gate security and searches, overseeing deliveries, welcoming and supervising visitors, and keeping an eye on phone activity and CCTV. It is an active role that combines desk-based work with physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, and walking escort routes across the prison grounds.

Working pattern and travel

This post includes a range of shifts, with evenings, nights, and weekends as part of the rota. Start and finish times are fixed, so punctual travel to and from the site is essential. The prison may be in a rural area with limited public transport, so having a driving licence and access to your own vehicle is helpful, though not always mandatory unless specifically stated.

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

Who this role suits

No formal qualifications are required. This role may suit someone who communicates clearly, stays calm in pressure-filled situations, uses sound judgement, and works well as part of a team. It is a fast-moving job that can be a strong entry point into a career in the prison service.

Career development

The position offers a chance to build practical knowledge of prison operations and may open the door to other roles within the prison service, including the OSG to Prison Officer conversion route.

Pay and benefits

The advertised salary is £29,432. In addition to base pay, the role includes paid leave, bank and public holidays, apprenticeship access, pension membership, and a range of employee support and savings benefits.

Additional terms and benefits

• Annual leave starts at 25 days on appointment and rises to 30 days after 10 years of service, calculated pro rata.
• There are 9 bank, public, and privilege holidays.
• Employees can access a paid Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service.
• The package includes access to the Civil Service pension scheme, season ticket loans, retail discounts, an Employee Assistance Programme, and a Cycle to Work scheme.