Prison Custody Officer

Sodexo; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading facilities management company is seeking a Prison Custody Officer in the UK to maintain safety and security within prison facilities. This role offers a starting salary of £32,368.53 and annual increases. Responsibilities include supervising prisoners, managing daily routines, and supporting rehabilitation initiatives. The position includes an 8-week comprehensive training program and offers free meals, gym access, and various development opportunities.

Benefits

Free meals

Gym access

Paid training

Overtime opportunities

Life assurance

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Meet eyesight and hearing standards.
• Ability to manage stress and unpredictable situations.

Responsibilities

• Maintain security and discipline within the prison.
• Supervise prisoner activities and movements.
• Build professional relationships with prisoners.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Empathy

Resilience

Teamwork

Effective conflict resolution

Job description

SECURE THE PRESENT, SHAPE THE FUTURE - Transform Lives as a Prison Custody Officer!

As a Prison Custody Officer, you'll play a crucial role in maintaining safety, security, and order within our prison facilities. This is more than just a job – it's a meaningful opportunity to support rehabilitation, ensure justice, and contribute to the wider community.

What You’ll Do

• Maintain a secure and disciplined prison environment.
• Supervise daily routines, prisoner movements, and scheduled activities.
• Escort prisoners securely within and outside the facility.
• Respond calmly and professionally to challenging or high‑pressure situations.
• Support rehabilitation initiatives and encourage positive behaviours.
• Build respectful, professional relationships with prisoners to promote a safer, more supportive atmosphere.

You’ll be working with individuals who may be at the lowest point in their lives. No matter the challenge, you’re expected to build constructive, positive, and professional relationships based on fairness, consistency, and respect.

Who We’re Looking For

There’s no single profile for a prison officer. Our team is made up of people from all walks of life – whether you’re a parent, former teacher, retail worker, member of the armed forces, or simply someone who thrives on helping others. Whatever your background, if you’re a natural people person with strong communication skills, self‑confidence, empathy, and resilience, we want to hear from you.

Teamwork plays a vital role in this environment. You’ll need to be fully committed to supporting your colleagues and understand the importance of acting as one team to keep the prison safe – for staff, visitors, and prisoners alike.

The Behaviours That Make a Great Officer

• Calm Under Pressure – manage high‑stress or unpredictable situations with a level head.
• Empathy & Respect – treat everyone with dignity, regardless of their circumstances.
• Strong Ethics – maintain fairness, professionalism, and integrity at all times.
• Resilience & Adaptability – stay composed and effective, even when the job gets tough.
• Effective Communication – listen actively and speak clearly and confidently.
• Conflict Resolution – use de‑escalation techniques to manage tension and disputes.
• Teamwork – collaborate closely with colleagues for the safety and success of all.
• Vigilance – remain observant, alert, and responsive to potential risks.

Training and Development

You don’t need prior experience to apply. You’ll receive a comprehensive 8‑week training programme, delivered locally, to fully prepare you for the role. This includes:

• Classroom and practical learning.
• Conflict resolution and communication training.
• Shadowing experienced officers.
• Continued development and support throughout your career.

Eligibility Criteria

• Be at least 18 years of age at the time your employment begins.
• Meet the required eyesight standards in both eyes, with or without corrective lenses.
• Have an adequate level of hearing without the use of hearing aids, for safety reasons during training and operational duties.
• Tattoos are permitted, including those that are visible, but must not be offensive, discriminatory, violent, or intimidating. Facial tattoos are generally not allowed, except where they are for cultural, religious, or medical reasons.

What We Offer

Starting salary £32,368.53 with annual increases to £33,579.11 after 13 months of service. In addition, we provide:

• Free meals and parking.
• Access to our on‑site gym and subsidised gym membership.
• Opportunity to earn overtime (subject to availability).
• Comprehensive paid training and progression opportunities.
• Life assurance, BUPA healthcare, pension schemes, and much more.

We invite you to apply for this rewarding journey as a Prison Custody Officer. After submitting your application, you’ll receive a pre‑screening email and then an assessment centre invitation. All offers are subject to full security clearance checks.

We are unable to offer sponsorship for this position. For further guidance on visa eligibility and sponsorship criteria, please refer to the official UK Government website: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa.

About The Company

We’re all about building a workplace for the future. We believe in equal opportunities and celebrate diversity. We’re an inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome, can be natural, and can be the best version of themselves.