Recruit.ie is proud to welcome The Irish Prison Service (IPS) as an exhibitor at Jobs Expo Galway, taking place at the Galmont Hotel & Spa on Saturday, 13th September (10am-4pm). This vital public sector organisation plays a central role in Ireland’s Criminal Justice System and is currently seeking motivated individuals to join its ranks in shaping safer communities through rehabilitation, care, and custodial excellence.
A Pillar of Ireland’s Justice System
Operating under the Department of Justice and Equality, the Irish Prison Service employs approximately 3,200 uniformed and civilian staff across a network of 12 prisons, which includes 10 closed institutions and two open centres. At any given time, the IPS is responsible for the secure custody and care of around 4,000 individuals, both male and female, aged 18 and over.
The organisation’s mission is clear: “Providing safe and secure custody, dignity of care and rehabilitation to prisoners for safer communities.” This is supported by a strong vision of “A safer community through excellence in a prison service built on respect for human dignity.”
A Career with Purpose
Joining the IPS is a public service role with real purpose. New recruits begin their journey as Recruit Prison Officers, with clear and structured opportunities for progression to Governor Grade and beyond. Specialised career paths are also available in areas such as Trades, Gym Instruction, Bakery, and Work Training, allowing individuals to put their existing skills to meaningful use within the prison system.
With the IPS, personal and professional development is not only encouraged but actively supported. Staff can avail of official study leave, the Refund of Fees scheme, and a broad range of continuing professional development options.
Core Values that Make a Difference
At the heart of the Irish Prison Service are five guiding values:
- Teamwork – Achieving more together
- Integrity – Doing what’s right, even when unobserved
- Potential – Believing in better for staff and those in custody
- Safety – Fostering emotional and physical wellbeing
- Support – Uplifting both staff and prisoners on their journeys
These values define the culture and conduct of the service, ensuring that every staff member contributes to a positive, respectful environment.
Join the IPS at Jobs Expo Galway
If you’re looking for a rewarding career in public service where you can truly make a difference, visit the Irish Prison Service stand at Jobs Expo Galway. Meet their team, learn about current vacancies, training pathways, and what it’s like to work in one of the most important arms of the justice system.
Recruit.ie is proud to support the Irish Prison Service in their mission to build safer communities and we look forward to seeing you there.
What can you expect at Jobs Expo Galway?
- Employers actively recruiting for hundreds of jobs at home and abroad
- Specialised areas dedicated to jobs in particular industries
- The Career Clinic offering one-on-one CV, job seeking and career advice from professional career guidance counsellors
- A packed seminar timetable on important and topical issues by a range of industry experts
Career Clinic
The Career Clinic offers the chance for attendees to meet with professional development coaches. They can help candidates with crucial issues such as interview skills, CV presentation and changing career direction.
Agenda Stage
Jobs Expo’s Agenda Stage will host talks on a variety of topics including jobseeking skills such as using social media to land your dream job and interview techniques as well as a CV writing workshop. Other seminars include talks by industry insiders on a variety of career topics.