Detention Custody Officer (DCO) Location: Derwentside Immigration Removal Centre, Corbridge Rd, Consett DH8 6QY Schedule: Full-time, permanent, variety of shift patterns Salary: £27,484, rising to £28,857.57 after two years of service This isn’t just security work. It’s people work. You’ll support individuals 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 1. Online application 2. 1-hour virtual interview (Teams) 3. Assessment day (group tasks, fitness test, site tour) 4. 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&icareersUK@serco.com. Start a career where your work truly matters. Apply today. immigrationjobs dcojobs