Prison and Security Officers

Prison and Security Officers supervise and control the activities of inmates in correctional institutions, and provide security and investigative services to organisations and individuals.

**Indicative skill level:**

Most occupations in this minor group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

#### In Australia:

- AQF Certificate III including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3); or - AQF Certificate II or III, or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4); or - AQF Certificate I, or compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5)

#### In New Zealand:

- NZQF Level 4 qualification, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3); or - NZQF Level 2 or 3 qualification, or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4); or - NZQF Level 1 qualification, or compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5)

In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification. In the case of some Skill Level 5 occupations, a short period of on-the-job training may be required in addition to or instead of the formal qualification, or no formal qualification or on-the-job training may be required.

**Tasks include:**

- observing the conduct and behaviour of prisoners to prevent disturbances and escapes - supervising prisoners during work assignments, recreational periods, sporting activities and meals - patrolling and guarding properties, and checking for unauthorised entry - providing armed escort for the transport of cash and other valuables - maintaining order at venues where there are large gatherings of people - conducting investigations for clients - advising clients on security requirements and recommending and designing security specifications