Prison officers are responsible for keeping secure in prison people sentenced by courts. They also help prisoners to rehabilitate in various programs. Prison officer requirements vary depending on prison type and security level, from young offender’s institutions to high security prisons. This work is carried mainly indoors, but some duties require outdoor tasks, such as supervising recreation or patrolling grounds.

Prison Officers usually performs many of the following tasks:
• Looking out and helping prisoners.
• Administering physical control.
• Carrying out security checks
• Setting in new prisoners.
• Writing reports related to incidents.

• Being prepared to unexpected situations.
• Having teamwork abilities.
• Being physically fit for these duties.
• Being able to work under pressure.
• Being impartial and calm.
• Having abilities to exercise authority.
• Having interpersonal abilities.
• Being a good listener.
• Having respect for prisoners and their property.
• Having fast decision making skills.

Although there are no specific educational requirements to be a Prison officer, it is recommended to have some GCSE´s for job placements. Other relevant points are to have a Diploma in public services or development, health and society for this area of work.

Other compulsory requirements for applicants are being between 18 and 62 years old, a UK National, Commonwealth citizen, British Protected person, national for European Economic Area (EEA) or non national with a family member of EEA who has moved to the United Kingdom. Once these requirements are met, applicants must pass several test related to health.