Prisoner Custody Officer

Role overview

As a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) within Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS), you will help maintain safety, order, and security across the justice system. This post is based in Chelmsford (CM1 1NT).

The starting pay is £27,220 for a 35-hour working week, increasing to £28,179 from 1 September 2026. There is also a clear progression path over the following years: Year 2 £28,865, Year 3 £29,508, and Year 4 £30,172.

The service runs 24/6 with early and late shifts, so a flexible approach is essential. End times can change depending on operational needs, and you may occasionally need to stay beyond your scheduled hours. Rotas are issued 12 weeks in advance to help you plan. Part-time working can be discussed, but it must be across complete working days because shorter daily hours are not available.

Keep people safe. Keep justice moving.

What the role involves

You will work as part of a team to provide secure escort and custody support, with detainee welfare remaining a priority throughout court proceedings. You will remain responsible for detainees from the point they are in court until they return to custody or are released.

• Move detainees around the court estate, including courtrooms, holding cells, and other facilities
• Oversee detainees during hearings to protect safety and security
• Handle sensitive circumstances while protecting confidentiality
• Support welfare needs, such as food, drinks, and regular wellbeing checks
• Watch for behavioural concerns and respond to incidents or potential risks
• Carry out searches to help maintain a secure setting
• Produce accurate logs, reports, and other required records
• Work with court colleagues and partner organisations to keep operations running smoothly

Training and requirements

People from many different backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Full training is provided through a paid 5.5-week course, followed by continued guidance from experienced team members.

• A full UK driving licence (B/B1) is desirable
• A reasonable level of fitness is needed for the physical aspects of the job
• Good written and spoken communication skills are essential
• You must be able to remain calm and make sound decisions under pressure
• Confidence in managing behaviour and reducing conflict is important
• You should work well in a team and follow procedures carefully
• Professional conduct, integrity, and respect for confidentiality are required

Pay, leave, and benefits

• 20 days of annual leave, increasing to 25 days after 7 years of service, plus bank holidays, pro rata
• Up to 6% contributory pension, matched by Serco
• Structured induction, ongoing learning, internal courses and qualifications, mentoring, and support for career progression
• Employee Assistance Programme, support from MIND, Simply Health cash and dental plans, wellbeing resources, and discounted membership at Serco-operated gyms
• Discounts on major retailers and experiences, including Merlin attractions, cinema, leisure, retail, hospitality, mobile plans, and more

Recruitment process

• Online application with eligibility questions and online assessments
• Virtual assessment including a competency-based interview, short roleplay, and written exercise
• Initial checks for right to work and vetting documents
• Job offer and confirmation of the training start date

Eligibility, vetting, and other conditions

All offers depend on Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks, Enhanced DBS clearance, satisfactory employment references, and occupational health screening. This position is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Random alcohol and drug testing applies to all roles.

The role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules. You must already have the right to work in the UK. If you hold a visa, it must have at least two years remaining, and you must have at least one year of UK residency so that a recognised professional can complete the required countersignatory checks.

All colleagues are responsible for safeguarding children and vulnerable adults and must complete the required safeguarding training and follow the relevant policies.

About the employer

Serco delivers essential public services across the world in areas such as defence, transport, justice, immigration, healthcare, and citizen services. The organisation places strong emphasis on innovation, inclusion, and employee networks supporting gender, multicultural, disability, and LGBT+ communities.

Additional information

The employer asks candidates to apply promptly, as the closing date may be moved forward if applications are received in large numbers. The organisation is committed to making reasonable adjustments during interviews and through employment, and it welcomes applications from a diverse candidate pool. Flexible working conversations are open, and a hybrid model is used in many business areas.

The employer is a Disability Confident Leader and holds the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria will be invited to interview. Support is available for application queries, and the organisation also supports fair access to employment for people with unspent criminal convictions under the Ban the Box pledge, though some exemptions may apply because of the nature of the role and required security clearance.