Prisoner Custody Officer

Serco Limited; Hatfield; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading public services provider is looking for a Prisoner Custody Officer in Hatfield, England. The role involves escorting detainees to and from court, monitoring their security, and ensuring their wellbeing. Candidates should have a valid driver's license, good communication skills, and the ability to handle sensitive situations professionally. This role offers a competitive base salary of £26,026 with annual increments, a supportive work culture, and various employee benefits.

Benefits

Pension (matched up to 6%)

20 days annual leave (increasing to 25 after 7 years)

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounts on various services

Qualifications

• Current valid driver's licence.
• Reasonably fit to handle the physical demands of the role.
• High level of responsibility and professionalism.

Responsibilities

• Escort defendants in court settings ensuring safety and security.
• Monitor and supervise detainees during court sessions.
• Complete paperwork and data entry accurately.

Skills

Good written and verbal communication skills

Vigilance

Ability to handle challenging situations

Interest in criminology or psychology

Job description

Serco Limited

HATFIELD REMAND COURT, COMET WAY, HATFIELD, AL10 9SJ Permanent roles offering job stability & security

About the Role

Working as a Prisoner Custody Officer (PCO) in Prisoner Escort Custody Services (PECS) is more than just a role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a professional team that plays a vital role in the justice system, ensuring safety and security every day.

We Offer

• Base Salary of £26,026 (35hrs pw) with yearly increments: £26,658 (Year 2), £27,260 (Year 3), £27,882 (Year 4).
• Pension (matched up to 6%) and life insurance.
• 20 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 7 years’ service) plus Bank Holidays.
• A range of benefits to support the health and wellbeing of you and your family such as Employee Assistance Programme, MIND, Simply Health Care and Dental Plans and more.
• Access to a range of discounts and exclusive deals such as Merlin Attractions, Mobile Phone discounts, Cinema discounts, Leisure, Retail and Hospitality discounts and more.
• A supportive team & culture where you’ll get the chance to make a positive difference in a company passionate about diversity and inclusion.

Working Hours

We are operational 24/6 and you’ll cover various early and late shifts, 35hrs pw. Flexibility is key as the role involves a range of different working arrangements & additional hours. A rota basis (provided 12 weeks in advance) allows flexibility to enjoy meaningful time off.

Key Duties

• Escort defendants to and from courtrooms, cells, and other areas within the court, including accompanying them to the toilet to ensure security and safety. This may involve being handcuffed to the detainee.
• Monitor and supervise detainees while they are in the dock during court sessions, ensuring they remain secure and do not pose a risk.
• Maintain discretion and confidentiality when privy to sensitive information discussed during court proceedings.
• Provide support to detainees while managing your own emotional wellbeing in the face of harrowing testimonies.
• Ensure detainees have access to food and drink throughout the day, catering to dietary requirements.
• Monitor the mental and physical health of detainees, reporting any concerns to the appropriate authorities.
• Respond to incidents or emergencies, conducting thorough searches of property and individuals to prevent contraband.
• Complete paperwork and data entry accurately, logging detainee movements, incidents, and other relevant information.
• Work closely with other court staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals to ensure smooth and secure court operations.

Requirements

• Current valid driver's licence.
• Reasonably fit with good written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of responsibility, vigilance, and ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism and care.
• Interest in criminology or psychology is desirable.

Assessment Process

1. Briefing call to assess eligibility.
2. Competency based virtual interview.
3. Short role‑play and written exercise.

Additional Information

All roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Offers of employment are subject to Ministry of Justice Enhanced Level 2 checks with Enhanced DBS (Adult & Child Barring) and satisfactory employment references. All staff have a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable young adults. The post holder must undertake the appropriate level of training and ensure they work within the safeguarding policies of the organisation.

This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current UK Home Office rules, as it does not meet the required salary or skill level criteria. Applicants with a valid right to work in the UK must meet the following minimum eligibility criteria:

• Have at least two years remaining on your current visa.
• Have lived in the UK for at least one year, as the vetting process requires a counter‑signatory from a recognised professional who has known you for that duration.

About Serco

At Serco the nature of the work is important, and everyone plays a role, from caring for vulnerable people to managing complex public services. Serco delivers essential public services worldwide in fields such as defence, transport, justice, immigration, healthcare and citizen services. We are committed to redesigning and improving public services for the benefit of everyone.

We are a global workforce of 50,000 people and support diversity, inclusion and belonging through Employee Networks such as SercoInspire, SercoEmbrace, SercoUnlimited and In@Serco. Serco is a proud Disability Confident Leader, holder of the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard, and a fair access employer to those with unspent criminal convictions through the ‘Ban the Box’ pledge.