19670 – Operational Support Grade (Prison Support Role) – HMP Berwyn | £30,491 | Permanent | 8 Vacancies
Looking for a secure and rewarding career in the UK Civil Service? The HM Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS) is recruiting 8 Operational Support Grade (OSG) staff for HMP Berwyn in Wrexham, North Wales.
This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking a permanent government role with competitive pay, outstanding benefits, and long-term career progression. No formal qualifications are required, as full training will be provided.
UK-based applicants with the legal right to work in the UK are encouraged to apply.
Job Summary
- Position: Operational Support Grade (Prison Support Role)
- Reference Number: 469470
- Employer: HM Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS)
- Location: HMP Berwyn, Wrexham, North Wales, LL13 9QE
- Salary: £30,491 per year
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Job Grade: Administrative Assistant
- Working Pattern: Full-time, Part-time, Flexible Working, Job Share
- Vacancies: 8
- Application Deadline: 23 July 2026 (11:55 PM)
About the Role
Operational Support Grade staff play a vital role in ensuring prisons operate safely and efficiently. This is an active position involving walking, standing, lifting, and carrying throughout the working day.
Depending on operational requirements, you may work independently during both day and night shifts. While some duties involve working with prisoners, many responsibilities focus on maintaining the smooth running and security of the establishment.
Full training is provided, and you will work alongside an experienced and supportive team.
Key Responsibilities
As an Operational Support Grade, your duties may include:
- Managing secure entry and exit points for staff, visitors, and vehicles
- Conducting searches of visitors, vehicles, staff, and prisoners
- Patrolling prison grounds and perimeter fences
- Issuing and collecting prison keys and communication radios
- Operating prison control room systems
- Monitoring CCTV and reporting security concerns
- Welcoming and assisting prison visitors
- Processing incoming and outgoing mail
- Identifying and reporting prohibited items
- Supporting prisoner reception procedures
- Photographing prisoners
- Managing prisoner property and personal belongings
- Supervising prisoners where required
- Assisting prison officers during prisoner escorts
- Delivering meals throughout the prison
- Collecting mail from local sorting offices
- Monitoring prisoner telephone systems
- Maintaining accurate operational records
- Responding to incidents and emergencies in accordance with prison procedures
Who Can Apply?
You do not need previous prison experience or formal qualifications.
This role is suitable for individuals who have:
- Good communication skills
- Sound judgement
- A responsible attitude
- Teamwork skills
- Reliability
- Physical fitness for an active role
- Confidence working in a secure environment
Working Hours
Successful applicants will work an average of 37 hours per week.
The role includes:
- Day shifts
- Night shifts
- Evening shifts
- Weekend work
- Bank Holiday working
Shift patterns operate on a rolling rota.
Salary and Benefits
Successful candidates will receive:
- Annual salary of £30,491
- Civil Service Pension with 28.97% employer contribution
- 25 days annual leave on appointment
- Annual leave increasing to 30 days after 10 years’ service
- 9 bank, public and privilege holidays
- Paid Level 2 Customer Service Apprenticeship
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Retail discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Season Ticket Loan
- Flexible working opportunities
- Excellent career progression within the Civil Service
- Comprehensive induction and ongoing professional development
Training and Career Development
HMPPS provides extensive training, including:
- Equality and Diversity
- Security procedures
- Challenging behaviour management
- Suicide prevention
- Health and safety
- Operational procedures
- Career development programmes
Recruitment Process
The recruitment process includes:
- Submit your online application.
- Complete the online Values-Based Assessment.
- Attend a behaviour and strengths-based interview if shortlisted.
- Successful candidates will be placed on a merit list before receiving job offers.
Behaviours Assessed
During the interview, candidates will be assessed on:
- Communicating and Influencing
- Managing a Quality Service
- Making Effective Decisions
- Caring
Important Information
- No accommodation is provided.
- A driving licence is beneficial but not essential.
- Security and identity checks are required before employment.
- Flexible working options are available where operationally possible.
- Full training is provided.
Eligibility
This vacancy is open to UK-based applicants who have the legal right to work in the UK and meet the Civil Service nationality requirements.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their application before 11:55 PM on 23 July 2026.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a secure government career with excellent pay, generous pension benefits, comprehensive training, and genuine opportunities for progression, the Operational Support Grade role at HMP Berwyn is well worth considering. Whether you’re changing careers or seeking a long-term public sector position, this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
Application Deadline: 23 July 2026. Apply early to avoid missing out.