Our expertly designed online preparation courses are tailored specifically to the recruitment stages used by the Irish Prison Service. From aptitude tests to role-play exercises and competency-based interviews, our preparation supports confident performance at every stage.
Prison Officer Recruitment
Prison Officer Recruitment Campaign
The most recent Recruit Prison Officer campaign launched in July 2025, with applications managed through publicjobs.ie. The next Prison Officer recruitment campaign is expected to take place in 2026.
Full eligibility criteria and campaign details are outlined in the official Candidate Information Booklet which is published when applications open.
The competitive selection process typically includes:
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Online aptitude tests (Verbal & Numerical)
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A role-play exercise
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A competency-based interview
A career with purpose, structure, and real impact!
Source: Irish Prisons via YouTube
What our candidates say...
TestimonialsWhy choose our preparation courses
The Irish Prison Service recruitment process is highly competitive, with large numbers of applicants progressing through a limited number of places.
For over 35 years, Career Services has helped candidates prepare for Prison Officer recruitment campaigns and other Irish public-sector competitions. We are a private education company, and our courses are optional, but consistently popular among candidates seeking structured, expert preparation.
Our online course is designed to help you:
- Understand the assessment formats used
- Prepare effectively for each stage
- Approach tests and interviews with confidence
Course benefits include:
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Targeted preparation for aptitude tests, role-play exercises and interviews
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Expert-led guidance focused on public-sector assessment standards
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Flexible online access, allowing you to prepare at your own pace
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Proven track record supporting candidates across multiple recruitment campaigns
Preparation helps ensure you approach each stage informed, confident and ready to perform.
What is a Recruit Prison Officer?
A Recruit Prison Officer (RPO) is the entry-level grade within the Irish Prison Service. When recruitment campaigns open, a panel is formed from which vacancies are filled as they arise.
Following the successful completion of:
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Probation
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Three years’ service
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A Higher Certificate in Custodial Care
Recruit Prison Officers may be appointed as Established Prison Officers.
Working as a Prison Officer
Prisons operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and Prison Officers work shift patterns that include:
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Night duties
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Weekend work
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Public holidays
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Additional rostered hours
The role is challenging and demanding, but also structured, varied and rewarding. Prison Officers are expected to demonstrate professionalism, sound judgement, strong communication skills and the ability to respond calmly to complex situations.
Online Preparation Course
We run highly regarded online preparation courses for candidates applying to the Irish Prison Service. These courses focus on the assessment formats candidates can expect and are designed to support confident, structured performance at every stage.
Prison Officer Recruitment Preparation
Please note: We are not affiliated with the Irish Prison Service or the Public Appointments Service (the official recruiter) and our courses are optional.
