Image of career: Prison Officer

Prison Officer

Overview

Prison Officers ensure the security and discipline of offenders, and help them integrate back into society.

Description

  • Ensure the prison facility remains secure and safe.
  • Offer guidance and support to offenders to prevent repeat offences.
  • Monitor inmates, ensure safety and enforce rules.
  • Help offenders turn over a new leaf and integrate back into society.
  • Supervise inmates to maintain good discipline and order.

Entry requirements

  • You need at least 'A' Levels, diploma, or Higher NITEC for Sergeant roles, or a Bachelor's Degree for rehabilitation officer positions.
  • Normal colour vision and physical fitness are required, with males needing PES status B1 and above.

Salary

$2,250 – 6,200

/mo

Salary ranges are estimated based on public information found on Singaporean job portals, including MyCareersFuture, MySkillsFuture. Updated as of 2026.

Trivia

Besides guarding, prison officers coach, inspire, and create positive impact on offenders' lives, giving them another chance in society.

What to expect

Working with inmates requires passion, effort, and perseverance. You may work in intelligence, prison operations, or community corrections.

Soft
skills

People Development

Able to help inmates develop skills and mindset needed for successful reintegration into society.

Communication

Ability to communicate effectively to maintain order and collaborate with colleagues.

Decision Making

Ability to make quick and sound decisions in high-pressure situations to ensure safety.

Security Control

Ability to maintain inmate and staff safety through strict security protocols.

Patrol

Able to conduct regular patrols and monitoring to maintain order and security.

Tactical Skills

Knowledge and application of advanced tactics for quick resolution of situations.

Hard
skills

Elvis Tan, Housing Unit Officer
"Prison Officers have to be aware of things and operate as a team to make a safer environment."

Elvis Tan, Housing Unit Officer

Singapore Prison Service

Frequently asked questions

Sergeants complete a 28-week Basic Officer Course, whilst rehabilitation officers undergo a 35-week course at the Home Team Academy. Both roles include prison officer training covering physical fitness, tactical readiness, and job-specific knowledge.

Yes, prison officers (sergeants) may be promoted to rehabilitation officer if they perform well and show potential within their first few years of service.

Yes, they're responsible for maintaining order and security throughout the facility,

It may be dangerous due to the nature of work involved alongside those in the facility.

They use de-escalation techniques to reduce tension and promote cooperation, helping to resolve conflicts.