JOB NEWS: HMP Durham is hiring a Prison Officer to work on a Full-time basis
• Prison Officer – HMP Durham
• Employer: HM Prison & Probation Service (Ministry of Justice)
• Location: HMP Durham, Old Elvet, Durham, DH1 3HU
• Contract: Permanent
• Working Pattern: Full-time, Part-time, Job Share & Flexible Working options
• Civil Service Grade: AO
• Salary:
• £33,746 per year (37 hours)
• £35,875 per year (39 hours – includes unsocial hours allowance)
• £38,003 per year (41 hours)
• Date Published: 28 January 2026
• Closing Date: 18 March 2026
• Job Reference: 13207
• Role Overview:
• Protecting the public while supporting prisoners to make positive changes
• Working directly with prisoners in a fast-paced, challenging environment
• Building constructive, professional relationships and maintaining safety
• Playing a vital role in keeping the prison secure, safe, and decent
• Key Duties:
• Supervising prisoners and maintaining order and discipline
• Supporting prisoners with daily activities, education, and rehabilitation
• Managing challenging situations calmly and professionally
• Working as part of a close-knit team to ensure safety and security
• Completing duties across a range of roles during each shift
• Working Hours & Shifts:
• Prisons operate 24/7
• Shift work includes evenings, weekends, public holidays, and some nights
• Most roles operate on a 39-hour rotating shift pattern
• Opportunities to work additional paid hours
• Eligibility Requirements:
• Aged 18 or over at the start of employment
• Meets Civil Service nationality requirements
• Able to pass medical, fitness, eyesight, and hearing assessments
• Willing to achieve Prison Officer accreditation
• Suitable standard of fitness for a physically active role
• Tattoos permitted unless offensive, discriminatory, or intimidating
• Enhanced DBS check required
• UK residency requirement applies for high security prisons
• Skills & Personal Qualities:
• Strong communication and influencing skills
• Sound judgement and decision-making ability
• Care, empathy, and understanding
• Resilience and professionalism under pressure
• Commitment to teamwork and quality service
• Training & Development:
• Full paid training provided
• Initial training based on a 37-hour working week
• Ongoing learning and career progression opportunities
• Potential alternative offer as an Operational Support Grade if suitable
• Benefits:
• 25 days annual leave (rising to 30 days after 10 years’ service)
• Paid public holidays plus one additional privilege day
• Civil Service pension with employer contribution of 28.97%
• Cycle to work scheme and travel loans
• Access to wellbeing and support services
• Additional Information:
• This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship
• Disability Confident employer offering reasonable adjustment support
• Merit-based recruitment process with online tests and assessment centre
• Apply:
• Apply via the official Civil Service jobs website
• Quote job reference 13207 when applying or making enquiries
To apply please see the official job vacancy page here.
