Prison Support - HMP Huntercombe

Role overview

The HM Prison and Probation Service is hiring an Operational Support Grade at HMP Huntercombe. This is a hands-on position that helps ensure the prison operates safely and efficiently each day.

As part of a supportive team, you may be involved in gate security and searches, handling incoming deliveries, overseeing visitors, and watching phone and CCTV activity. The role combines desk-based duties with active work such as lifting, carrying, and walking across the prison grounds to escort vehicles.

Travel and attendance

Some prisons are located in rural areas with limited public transport, so having a driving licence and access to your own transport can be helpful, though it is not mandatory unless specifically stated. Shift start and finish times are fixed, so you must be able to travel to and from work on time. Please think carefully about the site location and your transport arrangements.

Driving licence requirement

Applicants must have a full, valid UK driving licence that includes category D1, which permits driving vehicles with no more than 16 passenger seats, a maximum length of 8 metres, and a trailer up to 750kg.

What the role suits

No formal qualifications are needed. This job may suit someone who communicates well, stays calm in pressured situations, uses common sense and sound judgement, and works well as part of a team.

The position involves a rotating shift pattern, including nights and weekends.

Career value

This role offers a chance to contribute to public safety and support the essential work carried out in prisons. Your direct contact with prisoners will usually be limited, although there may be occasional interaction depending on the site.

The position also builds practical knowledge of prison operations and may open pathways into other prison roles, including the OSG to Prison Officer conversion scheme.

Training and development

You will receive training along with opportunities to grow and progress in the role.

Pay and benefits

The salary for this role is £29,432.

In addition to base pay, the position includes 25 days of annual leave on joining, rising to 30 days after 10 years of service, calculated on a pro-rata basis. You will also receive 9 days of bank, public and privilege holidays.

Other benefits include access to a paid Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service, membership of the generous Civil Service pension scheme, season ticket loans, retail discounts, an Employee Assistance Programme, and a Cycle to Work scheme.

Additional information

His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service describes this as an extraordinary job carried out by someone like you.

If this sounds like the right fit, you are invited to apply.