Prison Support Officer - HMP Bullingdon

Role Overview

Join His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service at HMP Bullingdon as an Operational Support Grade (Prison Support Officer). This frontline role is essential to the daily operation of a busy prison, providing vital support across security, visitor supervision, and administrative tasks. You will be part of a collaborative team performing diverse duties ranging from security checks at the entrance, managing deliveries, overseeing visitors, to monitoring phone and CCTV systems. The position blends office-based responsibilities with physical activities such as lifting, carrying, and escorting vehicles around the prison grounds.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct security checks and searches at the prison gate;
• Manage deliveries entering the prison premises;
• Supervise visitor access and movements;
• Monitor phone conversations and CCTV surveillance;
• Carry out physical tasks including lifting and escorting within the prison environment;
• Work varied shifts including nights and weekends to ensure continuous operational support.

Candidate Profile

No formal qualifications are necessary; however, candidates must demonstrate strong communication skills, composure under pressure, sound judgement, common sense, and the ability to work effectively within a team. While contact with prisoners is generally limited, occasional interactions may occur depending on the prison setting.

Requirements

• Full, valid UK driving licence including D1 category, permitting the operation of vehicles with up to 16 passenger seats, maximum length of 8 meters, and a trailer up to 750kg;
• Reliable means of transport is beneficial due to rural location and limited public transit options, though not essential;
• Responsibility to attend shifts punctually as per fixed start and finish times;
• Willingness to work rotating shifts covering weekends and nights.

Benefits and Progression

• Starting salary of 29,432;
• Annual leave entitlement starting at 25 days, increasing to 30 days after 10 years service (pro-rated);
• Nine days of bank, public, and privilege holidays annually;
• Access to a Level 2 apprenticeship in customer service with remuneration;
• Participation in the Civil Service pension scheme;
• Additional benefits including season ticket loans, employee retail discounts, Employee Assistance Programme, and Cycle to Work scheme;
• Comprehensive training and development opportunities with career progression pathways including possible conversion to Prison Officer roles.