The Office of the Inspector of Prisons (OIP) is a statutory office, independent in its function, currently under the aegis of the Department of Justice, Home Affairs & Migration.

The key role assigned to the Inspector of Prisons (Chief Inspector) is to carry out regular inspections of prisons in Ireland. The OIP is now looking for Lead Inspectors (Assistant Principal Officer level) and applications are invited from committed individuals who can positively relate to and effectively engage with people deprived of their liberty and those responsible for their custody.

Reporting to a Senior Inspector/Deputy Chief, Lead Inspectors will manage a team of inspectors/investigators, as well as the substantive work of any administrative staff assigned to their team. They will be responsible for the organisation and delivery of a programme of inspections/investigations as directed by a Senior Inspector, in line with the OIP’s strategic and business plans. 

Full details of the role, including specific eligibility requirements, is available on Lead Inspector

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 3pm on Thursday 5 February 2026.

They are committed to a policy of equal opportunity and encourage applications under all nine grounds of the Employment Equality Act.