Is being a prison officer a good fit for you?
Guards people held in prisons and other secure centres. Follows strict rules and may escort prisoners between places.
What the work involves
- Counts prisoners to make sure each one is present.
- Checks locks, window bars, doors and gates to keep the prison secure and stop escapes.
- Watches prisoners' behaviour in housing, at work and at recreation to prevent escapes or violence.
- Searches prisoners, vehicles and cells for weapons, drugs and stolen items.
The interests that suit it
People in this work tend to be hands-on and organising. Here is how much each of the six kinds of interest comes into it.
What it tends to reward
Compared with other work, this job stands out for:
- Belonging. People who look out for each other, and a manager who has your back.
How much training it needs
Fast start. Little or some training needed. Rules differ from country to country, so check locally before you commit.
Find out if it fits you
Answer quick questions about what you like doing and what keeps you going. We match you with roles from over 900 kinds of work, and you can see if a prison officer is one of yours.
Free. About 15 minutes. No account.