The Role of a Prison Officer

Professional Prison Officers are at the very heart of SPS vision. We need responsible, confident people with compassion as well as a sense of duty to make our vision work and provide all the training necessary to succeed in a rewarding new career.

The SPS currently has two levels for the role of Prison Officer, i.e. Operations and Residential / Regimes. Initial recruitment is to the Operations Role.

Operations Officer responsibilities

Working as part of a team, Operations Officers are responsible for:

• Gate Duties - responsible for security of gate area, including control of vehicles and pedestrians within the establishment.
• Reception of both prisoners and visitors - responsible for logging people in and out and checking of documentation to ensure those entering and leaving the establishment are authorised.
• Control and Supervision of Prisoners - responsible for the supervision of visits, prisoner escort, various areas of the establishment.
• Operations Room - monitor security systems including closed circuit television, alarm and communications system relating to perimeter and staff security.
• Contractor Security - responsible for escorting contractors to ensure security of personnel and equipment.
• Patrol Duties - maintain perimeter security (night duty and weekend evening when prisoners locked in cells).
• Prisoner Supervision system - responsible for close supervision on an individual basis of a small group of prisoners identified as requiring High Supervision.

In order to meet the requirements of the role it is essential to possess excellent communication skills, a positive approach to teamwork, patience and consideration, resilience and enthusiasm.

Opportunities

Once the Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) in Custodial Care Level 3 award is completed successfully it will be possible to seek promotion to a Residential/Regimes role. These promotion opportunities are subject to organisational requirements and are conducted through a competitive selection process.