Correctional Facility Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an ever-changing societal landscape, the role of a Correctional Facility Manager has become increasingly significant.

As society progresses, the demand for proficient individuals who can effectively manage, improve, and uphold the standards of our correctional facilities grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a Correctional Facility Manager?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring professional seeking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager formulating the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply intrigued by the complexities of correctional facility management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a versatile Correctional Facility Manager job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Correctional Facility Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Correctional Facility Managers oversee the operations of prisons, jails, and other institutions that house individuals who are serving sentences for criminal offenses.

Their role is crucial in maintaining order, ensuring the safety of inmates and staff, and facilitating rehabilitation programs.

Here are their duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and implement policies and procedures to govern the operation of the facility
• Oversee the admission, classification, and release of inmates
• Ensure the facility complies with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations
• Coordinate security measures and emergency response plans
• Supervise, train, and evaluate correctional staff
• Facilitate rehabilitation programs and services for inmates, such as educational courses and substance abuse treatment
• Manage the facility’s budget and resources, including food service, healthcare, and maintenance operations
• Maintain records and prepare reports on facility operations and inmate population
• Handle public relations, including communication with the media, inmate families, and the community
• Coordinate with law enforcement agencies, courts, and other correctional institutions

 

Correctional Facility Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Correctional Facility Manager to oversee all aspects of our correctional institution.

The Correctional Facility Manager’s responsibilities include enforcing facility regulations, managing and training staff, coordinating facility programming, and ensuring the safety and security of both inmates and staff.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of correctional facility operations, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to maintain a high level of discipline and professionalism in a challenging environment.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of the correctional facility
• Ensure adherence to facility rules and regulations by both inmates and staff
• Coordinate and oversee staff training programs
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance security and safety within the facility
• Coordinate inmate programming including educational and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services
• Manage facility budgets and resources
• Respond to emergency situations swiftly and effectively
• Coordinate with various stakeholders including law enforcement, social services, and legal teams
• Ensure facility compliance with local, state, and federal laws and regulations

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in correctional facility management or similar role
• Knowledge of correctional facility laws and regulations
• Strong leadership and organizational skills
• Ability to manage and resolve conflicts
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle high-stress situations and make decisions under pressure
• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or related field
• Certification in Correctional Management is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Correctional Facility Manager
• Work Environment: This role requires working in a secured correctional facility. Some travel may be required for training or conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Correctional Services.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Correctional Facility Manager Do?

A Correctional Facility Manager, also known as a prison warden, is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a prison or jail.

They often work directly for government agencies or private companies that manage prisons, jails, and detention centers.

They play a crucial role in maintaining order, security, and discipline within the institution.

The primary responsibilities of a Correctional Facility Manager include supervising staff, managing budgets, ensuring the facility complies with all relevant laws and regulations, and planning and coordinating responses to emergencies and other incidents.

Correctional Facility Managers also work closely with other prison staff to handle prisoner grievances, assess and manage risks within the facility, and coordinate prisoner transportation.

They often have a significant role in inmate rehabilitation, including planning and overseeing educational and vocational training programs, arranging for mental health or substance abuse counseling, and coordinating with social services agencies for prisoner reentry initiatives.

The Correctional Facility Manager also acts as the public face of the institution, addressing media inquiries and working with community organizations and the families of inmates.

Overall, the aim of a Correctional Facility Manager is to ensure the safe, secure, and efficient running of the institution while promoting rehabilitation and positive societal reintegration of inmates.

 

Correctional Facility Manager Qualifications and Skills

A competent Correctional Facility Manager must possess a range of skills and qualifications that align with the job role, including:

• Strong leadership skills to supervise and manage a diverse team of correctional officers and other staff members effectively.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise between inmates, staff, and external organizations, while also handling any disputes or conflicts that may arise.
• Knowledge of criminal justice principles and an understanding of the penal system to facilitate the smooth operation of the facility.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to quickly make decisions in high-stress situations and implement effective solutions.
• Exceptional organizational skills to handle scheduling, budgeting, and logistical aspects of running the correctional facility.
• Strong ethics and integrity to uphold the principles of the justice system and ensure the fair and humane treatment of inmates.
• Physical fitness and readiness to respond to emergencies and potential security threats within the facility.
• Experience in conflict resolution to maintain a safe, orderly, and peaceful environment within the correctional facility.

 

Correctional Facility Manager Experience Requirements

Correctional Facility Managers typically must have a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field, with at least 5 years of experience in a correctional facility setting.

They often start their careers as correctional officers or related roles, gaining hands-on experience with institutional operations, security procedures, and inmate management.

Entry-level correctional facility management roles may require 2 to 3 years of experience in an administrative capacity within a correctional facility.

This experience often comes from roles such as Correctional Counselor, Correctional Case Manager, or Administrative Assistant in a correctional setting.

Candidates aspiring for senior-level roles usually have more than 5 years of experience.

This experience includes not only managing daily operations but also handling critical situations, leading teams, and developing policies and programs for the correctional facility.

Those with more than 10 years of experience may have significant leadership and administrative experience.

They are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of correctional facility management, including budgeting, staffing, policy enforcement, and crisis management.

Such candidates are typically eligible for director-level positions or higher within the facility.

 

Correctional Facility Manager Education and Training Requirements

Correctional Facility Managers are generally expected to have a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field.

In addition to a degree, they need to have considerable work experience in correctional facility settings, often as a correctional officer or related role.

As part of their training, they must understand various aspects of criminal law and correctional administration.

They need to be proficient in areas such as institutional management, offender rehabilitation, and organizational behavior.

States may also require Correctional Facility Managers to be certified.

Certification criteria vary by state, but generally require a combination of education and experience, as well as successfully completing an exam.

Continuing education is also important for Correctional Facility Managers.

They need to keep up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in correctional facility management, including changes to laws and regulations, advancements in rehabilitation techniques, and new management practices.

Some Correctional Facility Managers may pursue a master’s degree in a related field, such as public administration or criminal justice, to increase their knowledge and skills, and to enhance their career prospects.

While this is not a requirement, it may be beneficial in a highly competitive job market.

 

Correctional Facility Manager Salary Expectations

A Correctional Facility Manager earns an average salary of $63,380 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary widely based on experience, geographical location, and the size of the correctional facility.

Experience in law enforcement or military service may also impact the salary range.

 

Correctional Facility Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Correctional Facility Manager need?

Correctional Facility Managers need strong leadership and decision-making abilities to oversee the facility’s operations and maintain order.

They need excellent communication skills for liaising with staff, inmates, and external agencies.

A keen understanding of the law and correctional systems, crisis management skills, and the ability to handle high-stress situations are also crucial.

 

Do Correctional Facility Managers need a degree?

Yes, most Correctional Facility Managers hold a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field.

Some facilities might prefer candidates with a master’s degree.

Also, experience in correctional administration or as a correctional officer is generally required.

 

What should you look for in a Correctional Facility Manager’s resume?

Apart from academic qualifications, look for relevant experience in correctional administration or law enforcement.

Specialized training or certification in correctional management can be a plus.

Skills such as leadership, decision-making, conflict resolution, and crisis management should be highlighted.

Any evidence of successful management of a correctional facility, like effective rehabilitation programs or a decline in inmate conflicts, can add value.

 

What qualities make a good Correctional Facility Manager?

A good Correctional Facility Manager should exhibit strong leadership and decision-making abilities.

They need to be fair, firm, and consistent in enforcing rules and regulations.

They should be skilled in conflict resolution and crisis management.

A high level of integrity and the ability to handle stressful situations calmly are also important.

They must have a deep understanding of correctional systems and the rights of inmates.

 

Is it difficult to hire Correctional Facility Managers?

Hiring Correctional Facility Managers can be challenging due to the specific skill set and experience required for the role.

Candidates must demonstrate strong leadership skills, have a strong understanding of the correctional system, and be able to handle high-stress situations effectively.

Moreover, it can be tough to find candidates who are prepared to work in a challenging and often stressful environment like a correctional facility.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve illuminated the multifaceted role of a correctional facility manager.

Surprised?

It’s not just about maintaining order.

It’s about fostering rehabilitation and contributing to public safety, one day at a time.

With our handy correctional facility manager job description template and authentic examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why halt your progress?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your secret weapon to creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to absolute precision.

Keep in mind:

Every decision made contributes to the larger mission.

Let’s make a difference. Together.

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