Detention Custody Officer

Serco Limited; Guildford; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Training programme

224 hours annual leave

Pension (matched up to 6%)

Free on-site parking

Subsidised meals

Full uniform provided

Employee discounts + Blue Light Card

Job summary

Serco Limited is recruiting for a full-time, permanent role at the Gatwick Immigration Removal Centre. You will help maintain safety and security, build respectful relationships, and de-escalate challenging situations, while supporting people from diverse backgrounds.

The work is people-focused, not just security, demanding calm, empathy, and clear communication. Shifts include day and night patterns, with a 9-week training programme and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Calm under pressure.
• Able to listen without judgement.
• Confident handling difficult situations.
• Respectful of every background and culture.
• Motivated to help people through tough moments.
• No experience? No problem.

Responsibilities

• Maintain safety and security across the centre.
• Build professional, respectful relationships.
• De-escalate challenging situations calmly.
• Support people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
• Stay alert, hands-on, and ready for anything.

Skills

Calm under pressure

Empathy

Communication

Teamwork

Job description

Location: Gatwick Immigration Removal Centre (RH6 0PQ)

Schedule: Full-time, permanent, variety of shift patterns

Salary: £30,000pa, rising to £31,064pa after Graduation and rising to £34,154pa after 12 months

This isn't just security work.

It's people work.

You'll support individuals during some of the most difficult moments of their lives - staying calm, showing respect, and making a real difference every day.

Why this role matters

• You create a safe, secure environment
• You treat everyone with dignity and respect
• You support people who may be scared, frustrated or vulnerable
• You rely on communication and empathy - not just authority

What you'll actually do

• Maintain safety and security across the centre
• Build professional, respectful relationships
• De-escalate challenging situations calmly
• Support people from diverse cultures and backgrounds
• Stay alert, hands-on, and ready for anything

You're made for this if you are

• Calm under pressure
• Able to listen without judgement
• Confident handling difficult situations
• Respectful of every background and culture
• Motivated to help people through tough moments

No experience? No problem. If this sounds like you - you're made for this.

What shifts look like

• 40 hours per week (average)
• Day + night shifts (6-12 hours)
• Fair, structured rota
• Paid breaks on night shifts

Location note: Limited public transport

• Ideally live within 30 miles
• Free minibus from Gatwick Airport (Atlantic House)

What you'll get

Training and development:

• 9 week fully paid training programme
• Learn conflict resolution, communication, cultural awareness
• Clear pathways into leadership & specialist roles

Benefits:

• 224 hours annual leave (incl. bank holidays)
• Pension (matched up to 6%)
• Free on-site parking
• Subsidised meals + 1 free meal per day
• Full uniform provided
• Employee discounts + Blue Light Card

Application process

1. Online application
2. 1-hour virtual interview (Teams)
3. Assessment day (group tasks, fitness test, site tour)
4. 9-week training (full attendance required)

Eligibility and checks (important)

• Must already have the right to work in the UK (no visa sponsorship)
• Typically requires:
  • Indefinite leave to remain
  • 3+ years living in the UK
• Security clearance required:
  • Home Office CTC
  • Enhanced DBS (adult and child barring)
  • 5 years checkable history