Structure of Prison Officer Roles

The Scottish Prison Service currently has two levels for the role of Prison Officer, i.e. Operations and Residential / Regimes.  Initial recruitment to the organisation is specific to the Operations Role.  Once the SVQ in Custodial Care Level 3 award is completed successfully, it may be possible to progress through promotional opportunities to a Residential / Regimes role.  These Promotional opportunities are determined by organisational requirements and are conducted through a competitive selection process.

Operations Officer responsibilities

Working as an integral part of a team, Operations officers are responsible for gate duties; reception of visitors; control and supervision of prisoners; supervision of visits; prisoner escort; providing prisoner information; monitoring security systems; cell searches; contractor security and patrol duties.

Residential Officer responsibilities

Working as an integral part of a team, Residential officers are responsible for maintenance of high level of security and good order within residential areas; building of effective, appropriate and supportive relationships through managing prisoners in a proactive manner; processing of all prisoner requests and complaints; promotion of the SPS Social Care and Inclusion agenda.

Regimes Officer responsibilities
Working as an integral part of a team, Regimes officers are responsible for maintenance of high level of security and discipline in the prisoner workplace; compliance with national and local security standards; training and supervision of prisoners; effective running or assisting in running of work activity areas; helping prepare prisoners for release; promotion of the SPS Social Care and Inclusion agenda.