Detention Custody Officer Manager (DCOM) - International Immigration Removals

Closing date for applications will be 23rd November 2026

Working as a DCOM within our Gatwick team means that you will be responsible for the day-to-day management of Detainee Custody Officers (‘DCO') within Overseas Escorting transporting and removing immigration returnees within the UK and flying internationally, other modes of transportation can be used in some circumstances. This will mean you are the responsible for maintaining high standards of safety and security for those being removed from the UK, whilst promoting their welfare and decency.

In this fast-paced role you will need to have strong communication and interpersonal skills to support colleagues, work together in teams and a passion for delivering exceptional service to our returnees.  No two days are the same and as you gain experience within this challenging role, we'll support you throughout your time to grow and develop. 

Manage, motivate, coach, monitor and support staff to maximise their performance and ensure they are fully informed about and work in accordance with company policies and procedures and contractual requirements.  Fulfil the responsibilities of the Senior Manager on site during an incident until a Senior Manager is available (if appropriate) to ensure the situation is managed in line with relevant standards and requirements.

Organise and manage the provision of accurate data for management information so that informed decisions can be taken. Support the implementation of scheduled and charter removal activities always ensuring a safe and effective operation.

Maintain regular liaison with the operational control centre to ensure accurate and current communication. Manage the accurate completion of all necessary documentation in line with company policies and procedures, highlighting any potential issues and discrepancies.

Due to the safety-critical nature of this role, we require that employees are not under the influence of any substance—including prescribed medication—that may impair their ability to perform their duties safely. This includes any THC-based prescriptions due to the lack of reliable evidence on safe levels of THC in the system.

If you are currently prescribed medication that may affect your ability to carry out safety-critical tasks, we encourage you to discuss this with us as part of the recruitment process. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments where appropriate and in line with our obligations under the Equality Act 2010.

To ensure the highest standards of safety and compliance, we operate a random drug and alcohol testing programme. By applying, you acknowledge that participation in this testing is a condition of employment.

Due to UK Government Standard Security Clearance and Vetting associated with this role the following points are applicable to proceed with an application for this position:

• You are British or Irish National with a valid and in date passport.
• If you are not a UK or Irish National that you hold full Settled Status or Indefinite Leave to Enter/Remain in the UK.
• You hold a full and valid UK manual driving licence which you have held for 12 months or longer.
• You have lived permanently in the UK for the past 3 years.
• In the past 3 years, you have you not been out of the UK for any continuous periods of more than 3 months or longer.

Who we are looking for…

We're looking for respectful, diligent, and caring people to join our team. Being a Detention Custody Officer demands patience, resilience, and professionalism to handle an ever-changing day. You'll need the emotional intelligence to understand and reassure others, even if you can't speak their language. Adaptability is important too, as is a genuine commitment to safety, respect, and dignity. In return you will receive the below:

• Basic Salary £41,387 per annum 
• 37.5 hours per week, this will be on a shift pattern of 10 days on and 4 days off, 24/7 - 365 days a year.
• Free Parking
• Uniform Provided 
• Experience in a custodial environment or escorting service as a manager, supervisor, or team leader (desirable)