Detention Custody Officer

Detention Custody Officer (DCO)

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.
It’s people 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 create a safe, secure environment
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
Confident handling difficult situations
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
Paid breaks on night shifts

What you’ll get

Training and development:

7 week fully paid training programme
Learn conflict resolution, communication, cultural awareness
Clear pathways into leadership & specialist roles

Benefits:

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

Application process

Online application
1-hour virtual interview (Teams)
Assessment day (group tasks, fitness test, site tour)
7-week training (full attendance required)

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).

For support with your application, please contact j&[email protected].

Start a career where your work truly matters. Apply today.

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Work Location: In person