Job Summary
- Employer: Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Public Service
- Salary: Competitive salary
- Closing Date: 2026-09-11
Key Responsibilities
Requirements
- Be Zimbabwean citizens without a criminal record.
- Be at least 18 years and not more than 35 years of age by 09 October 2026 .
- Be physically and medically fit.
- Semi-skilled and skilled tradespersons should have qualifications up to Journeyman Class One for technical personnel.
- Hold Certificates, Diplomas or any higher qualification in the relevant field or speciality.
- Work experience is an added advantage.
Salary
Competitive salary
How to Apply
About the Company
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service is the state agency responsible for managing prison facilities and correctional programmes across Zimbabwe. It operates under the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, with its headquarters in Harare. The service oversees the safe custody of inmates, remand prisoners, and convicted offenders in institutions throughout the country. Beyond confinement, it delivers rehabilitation initiatives including vocational training, agricultural production, and educational programmes aimed at reintegrating offenders into society.
Securing communities through safe custody and offender rehabilitation in Zimbabwe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Correctional Officer – Technical, Specialist or Professional role in the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service?
Applicants usually need a minimum of five Ordinary Level passes including English and Mathematics, or an equivalent qualification. For technical or specialist streams, a relevant diploma or degree in fields such as engineering, information technology, healthcare, or social work is often required. Additional certifications, like first‑aid, firearms handling, or specific trade qualifications, can strengthen an application.
What are the common day‑to‑day responsibilities of a Correctional Officer in these technical or specialist positions?
They perform routine security duties such as monitoring inmate movements, conducting searches, and maintaining order within the facility. In addition, they apply their technical expertise—e.g., maintaining equipment, managing IT systems, providing medical or vocational support—according to their specialty. They also participate in rehabilitation programs, write incident reports, and assist senior staff with operational planning.
What is the typical work culture and what expectations does ZPCS have for employees in these roles?
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service emphasizes discipline, integrity, and a commitment to public safety, reflecting the broader public service ethos. Officers are expected to adhere to strict shift schedules, maintain professional conduct at all times, and engage in ongoing training. Teamwork and respect for both colleagues and inmates are valued, with a focus on rehabilitation and humane treatment of offenders.
What career progression or growth opportunities exist for Correctional Officers – Technical, Specialists and Professionals within ZPCS?
Officers can advance through graded ranks such as Officer, Senior Officer, Assistant Superintendent, and Superintendent based on performance and examinations. Specialist tracks allow movement into supervisory or managerial positions within their technical field, e.g., Chief Engineer or Head of Health Services. Continuous professional development courses and promotional exams are regularly offered to support upward mobility.
What benefits are typically provided to full‑time employees in these positions, and how should one apply?
Full‑time officers receive standard public‑service benefits including annual leave, sick leave, medical aid coverage, and a contributory pension scheme. Additional allowances may be provided for shift work, hazardous duties, or specialized skills, in line with government regulations. Applications are submitted through the ZPCS recruitment portal or advertised in government gazettes, where candidates must complete an online form, attach certified copies of qualifications, and undergo written tests, interviews, and background checks.