From Military to Justice: A Career that Counts
Looking for a career where you can use your existing skills to make a difference? Join us in a role that goes beyond security and embark on a career that is both demanding and deeply rewarding. Help to shape lives, support rehabilitation and contribute to creating safer communities within Scotland.
Why become a Prison Officer?
As a Prison Officer, no two days are the same and you’ll be joining a diverse team committed to making a difference. The environment our Officers operate within can be unpredictable at times, and situations may escalate quickly, so we’re looking for effective communicators who can work well as part of a team to maintain security and order. Prison Officers play a key role in maintaining the safety of our establishments as well as supporting those in custody to make positive changes. The work of Officers can be challenging, so you’ll need to be able to remain calm under pressure and demonstrate resilience.
What opportunities are available?
Two entry routes are available for those considering a career as a Prison Officer: Operations Officer and Residential Officer.
As an Operations Officer you’ll work in one of five key security areas of the prison, with a responsibility for maintaining safety for those in our care, staff, and visitors.
As a Residential Officer you’ll work in the ‘halls’ which are the accommodation areas of the prison. You’ll maintain order within the area, respond to incidents and support those in our care on their rehabilitation journey. You’ll build trust and may be assigned as a Personal Officer managing casework.
We have prisons across Scotland, so whether you already live in a community near an establishment or are thinking of relocating, there are opportunities available. If you enjoy being in the outdoors, HMP Inverness is based in the Highlands and is close to many hiking trails and outdoor activity centres. If you prefer city life with transport links, an opportunity at HMP Edinburgh or HMP Barlinnie may be more suited to you. We’ll ask for your preference regarding the establishment you are assigned to during the pre employment stage.
What we offer
On commencing employment you’ll embark on a structured foundation training programme and will be supported on your return to the prison with on-the-job training. At the SPS we believe our staff are our greatest asset and we’ll support your personal and professional development, offering excellent career progression opportunities.
You’ll join the Civil Service Pension Scheme, where the SPS will contribute circa 28.97%. We provide our staff with enhanced sick pay and you’ll have access to wellbeing support including the Employee Assistance Programme, and on-site fitness facilities.
Starting salaries for Operations Officers are currently £29,634, rising to £30,746 from 1st April 2026, while starting salaries for Residential Officers are currently £36,268, rising to £37,629 from 1st April 2026.
Ready for your next challenge?
If you want a career that offers variety and is impactful, becoming a Prison Officer may be the next step in your journey. We have a variety of other non-operational opportunities available too, from finance and trades maintenance, to IT; there’s a role for everyone.
Visit: www.sps.gov.uk/careers/ourroles/prison-officer-careers
