Immigration careers at Serco
Are you made for this?
Become a Detention Custody Officer.
What does a Detention Custody Officer actually do?
No two days are the same. As a DCO, you’ll listen, guide and reassure residents, while helping them access essential services such as healthcare, education, faith and cultural support, and legal advice.
You’ll also play an important role in maintaining a safe, secure and respectful environment, using your judgement and communication skills to respond calmly and professionally to different situations.
You’ll be part of a highly supportive team working 24/7, where flexibility, teamwork and looking out for one another are essential.
You’ll also play an important role in maintaining a safe, secure and respectful environment, using your judgement and communication skills to respond calmly and professionally to different situations.
You’ll be part of a highly supportive team working 24/7, where flexibility, teamwork and looking out for one another are essential.
Supporting people
Listen, guide, reassure and help residents access the support they need.
Keeping people safe
Help maintain a safe, secure and respectful environment, responding calmly to different situations.
Working as a team
Work closely with colleagues across a 24/7 operation, supporting each other and sharing responsibility.
Every day is different
From routine support to unexpected challenges, you’ll need to stay adaptable, make good decisions and be ready for whatever the shift brings.
The recruitment process
1. Apply online
Complete your application and online assessments.
2. Assessment Day
Meet the team, complete interviews and a fitness test (bleep and agility).
3. Vetting and offer
If successful, you’ll receive a provisional offer while Home Office security checks are completed.
4. Training and onboarding
Once cleared, you’ll begin your Initial Training Course and start your journey as a DCO.
What you can expect from us
A place you can
make an impact
Every interaction matters. As a Detention Custody Officer, you’ll support people through some of the most challenging moments in their lives, helping to create a safe, respectful environment where they feel heard and supported.
You’ll balance empathy with responsibility, using your judgement and communication skills to make a positive difference to residents, your colleagues and the wider service.
You’ll balance empathy with responsibility, using your judgement and communication skills to make a positive difference to residents, your colleagues and the wider service.
A place you
can count on
We care for our people as much as we care for our residents. That means flexibility, support, headroom to grow, and a culture built on trust, respect and inclusion.
Benefits include:
Benefits include:
- 23 days’ holiday (plus bank holidays), increasing with service
- Up to 6% contributory pension
- Free meals on shift and Serco discounts on shopping, entertainment and leisure
- Structured salary progression as you grow
A place for
you
At Serco, we want everyone to feel they belong, can be themselves and have the opportunity to thrive.
From dedicated employee networks and wellbeing support to learning, development and career opportunities, there are plenty of ways to feel connected and supported at Serco.
We’re proud to be recognised as the UK’s No. 1 employer for veterans, reservists and military families in the 2026 Great British Employers of Veterans rankings, alongside our Disability Confident Leader and Inclusive Employers Gold status.
From dedicated employee networks and wellbeing support to learning, development and career opportunities, there are plenty of ways to feel connected and supported at Serco.
We’re proud to be recognised as the UK’s No. 1 employer for veterans, reservists and military families in the 2026 Great British Employers of Veterans rankings, alongside our Disability Confident Leader and Inclusive Employers Gold status.
Where you could work
What is an Immigration Removal Centre? It’s a secure facility where people without legal immigration status are held while awaiting deportation or a decision on their case. Our IRCs provide dignity, safety and support for residents from all backgrounds and cultures.
Yarl’s Wood IRC – Bedfordshire
A transitioning site with innovative services and a strong sense of community. Our team of over 200 staff supports residents awaiting immigration clearance with care and respect.
Gatwick IRC –
Surrey
Home to around 600 residents, Gatwick (Brook House and Tinsley House) is diverse, fast-paced and built on teamwork and trust. Over 580 colleagues work together to make every day count.
Derwentside IRC – County Durham
A centre for adult women, Derwentside’s community model gives residents freedom of movement and choice, delivered with empathy and understanding.