Detention Custody Officer

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Location: Yarls Wood Immigration Centre, MK44 2FQ
Schedule: Full-time, permanent, variety of shift patterns
Salary: £31,000 per annum, rising incrementally to £32,000 (upon successful completion of 6 month probationary period) and £35,000 upon 2 years of service.

This isn't just security work.

You'll support people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives - staying calm, showing respect, and making a real difference every day.

Why this role matters

• You treat everyone with dignity and respect
• You support people who may be scared, frustrated or vulnerable
• You rely on communication and empathy - not just authority

What you'll actually do

• Maintain safety and security across the centre
• Build professional, respectful relationships
• De-escalate challenging situations calmly
• Support people from diverse cultures and backgrounds
• Stay alert, hands-on, and ready for anything

You're made for this if you are

• Calm under pressure
• Able to listen without judgement
• Respectful of every background and culture
• Motivated to help people through tough moments

No experience? No problem. If this sounds like you - you're made for this.

What shifts look like

• 40 hours per week (average)
• Day + night shifts (6-12 hours)
• Fair, structured rota

What you'll get

Training and development:

• 7 week fully paid training programme
• Clear pathways into leadership & specialist roles
• 224 hours annual leave (incl. bank holidays)
• Pension (matched up to 6%)
• Free on-site parking
• Subsidised meals + 1 free meal per day
• Full uniform provided
• Employee discounts + Blue Light Card

Eligibility and checks (important)

• Must already have the right to work in the UK (no visa sponsorship)
• Typically requires:
  • Indefinite leave to remain
  • 3+ years living in the UK
• Security clearance required:
  • Home Office CTC
  • Enhanced DBS (adult and child barring)
  • 5 years checkable history

A little bit about us:

At Serco, everyone plays a vital part in delivering essential public services that make a real difference. As a global team of 50,000 people across Defence, Transport, Justice, Immigration, Healthcare, Leisure and Citizen Services, we're united by a shared purpose: to improve the services that communities rely on. Guided by our values of Trust, Care, Innovation and Pride, our people make meaningful impact, every single day.

Our inclusive recruitment commitment:

We prioritise your skills and potential. As a Disability Confident Leader, a top Great British Employer of Veterans, and a Gold Inclusive Employer Standard holder, we champion equal opportunities for all. We offer flexible and hybrid working where possible and make reasonable adjustments throughout recruitment and employment.

• Guaranteed Interview Scheme: Applicants with disabilities, veterans and people with convictions, who meet the minimum job criteria, are guaranteed an interview. Simply opt into the relevant scheme on the application form.
• Ban The Box: We also support fair access for those with unspent criminal convictions through our 'Ban the Box' pledge (some roles may have security exemptions).