Principal Psychologist

In the role of Principal Psychologist, you will contribute to the range of functions performed by psychological services, including risk assessment and management, treatment interventions (psychological therapies and offending behaviour interventions), supervision, case-management and training delivery, all of which contribute to the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) vision of helping to build a safer Scotland. Post holders will provide management and leadership to Psychology Department teams within establishments and deliver training to other staff.

You will be able to work across more than one establishment, providing variety to your daily role and supporting continued professional development through breadth of experience.

If you have the following, we would like to hear from you:

• Evidence of a degree in Psychology with Graduate basis for registration; a BPS accredited MSC in Forensic Psychology and hold current HCPC registered practitioner status. (Essential)
• Extensive experience of working as a Psychologist within a forensic setting and at least two years’ experience post registration with HCPC as a practitioner. This must include experience of implementing and supervising high intensity offending behaviour programmes. (Essential)
• Extensive experience of psychological risk and risk assessment tools, including writing psychological risk reports and presenting to external agencies such as Parole Board. (Essential)
• Ability to act as designated and/or coordinating supervisor to Forensic Psychologists in Training, to ensure that standards of professional supervision meet the required standard for Chartered Psychologist status. (Essential)
• Ability to manage staff and assist their development to achieve desired outcomes. (Essential)

Some of the benefits you can enjoy in role are:

This role allows the flexibility of Hybrid working, in line with policy. While the main office location will be SPS HQ there may be some travel to establishments.

• Attractive Pension (Civil Service)
• Commitment to your personal and professional development
• Free gym and car parking
• Discounts at high street stores, supermarkets and restaurants through our partners at Blue Light Card, Edenred and Civil Service Sports Council. 
• Sick Pay
• Annual Leave - 37 days rising to 42 days

For information on the job, including full job description and person specification, and to apply for these vacancies please visit the Scottish Prison Service website. We are committed to your personal and professional development and offer a wide range of career progression opportunities.

Closing date: 17 September 2026.