The prison service potentially offers employment for job hunters with almost any skill set or qualifications. Positions can be found covering everything from plumbing and electrical work to vehicle mechanics, plant engineers, teachers, medical staff, dentists and accountants, to name just a few. With such a wide range of possible careers, exact job specifications and qualifying attributes will vary considerably
In addition to many positions that require skills and training from outside the prison service, the sector also employs officers in a variety of capacities. A basic role as operations officer can provide the chance for candidates with suitable communication skills and experience to benefit from training into a long-term career path
Positions can be found in locations across the country. In addition to the specific demands of each particular position, candidates will either need to possess existing clearance and vetting status or undergo a vetting and registration procedure pursuant to regulations governing work in this area
Operations officers can begin employment on a salary of more than £16,000. This can rise to more than £21,000. Skilled tradespeople working in this industry earn varying salaries and hourly pay. Senior/professional positions can pay £50,000+.

• 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.