Correctional Officer Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of criminal justice reform, the role of Correctional Officer Instructors has taken center stage.

As society evolves, the need for professionals who can educate, guide, and develop our correctional officers continues to grow.

So, let’s break it down: What’s truly expected from a Correctional Officer Instructor?

Whether you are:

• A job applicant striving to understand the core of this role,
• An hiring manager drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of correctional officer instruction,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Correctional Officer Instructor job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Correctional Officer Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Correctional Officer Instructors are responsible for teaching and training correctional officers in a variety of skills, from basic duties to advanced techniques in maintaining safety and order in a correctional facility.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Develop and conduct training programs for new and existing correctional officers
• Teach techniques in handling inmates, including conflict resolution and crisis intervention
• Instruct officers on the laws, rules, and regulations governing the operation of a correctional facility
• Assess the skills of correctional officers and provide feedback to improve their performance
• Teach safety procedures to help correctional officers maintain order and prevent escapes
• Develop and implement training curriculum, including creating course materials and lesson plans
• Evaluate the progress of correctional officers through written exams and practical demonstrations
• Stay updated on best practices in corrections and incorporate new methods into the training program
• Conduct field training exercises to give officers hands-on experience

 

Correctional Officer Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Correctional Officer Instructor to educate our staff on the best methods and procedures within a correctional facility.

Responsibilities include providing training on various correctional practices, developing lesson plans, and conducting assessments to ensure our correctional officers are ready for duty.

The ideal candidate has previous experience in a correctional setting and a knack for teaching.

They should be knowledgeable about correctional laws and safety protocols and be able to convey this information effectively.

 

Responsibilities

• Prepare and deliver training courses on correctional practices and procedures
• Develop unique and comprehensive lesson plans
• Assess officers’ knowledge and skills through testing and observation
• Stay updated on new laws, regulations, and procedures within correctional settings
• Handle any classroom or training-related issues
• Develop and implement strategies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of training programs
• Ensure all training material and methods comply with established policies and standards
• Provide feedback and advice to correctional officers on their performance

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Correctional Officer Instructor or similar role
• Strong knowledge of correctional laws and safety protocols
• Experience in curriculum development and training
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Ability to handle and resolve conflicts effectively
• Strong leadership and management skills
• Ability to work with a diverse group of individuals
• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Education, or a related field is preferred

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Correctional Officer Instructor
• Work Environment: Correctional facility setting with classroom-style teaching. Some travel may be required for meetings or additional training.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Training Director or Correctional Facility Warden.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 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 Officer Instructor Do?

A Correctional Officer Instructor is a professional responsible for the training and education of correctional officers within a prison or correctional facility.

Their main task is to design, develop, and implement training programs that meet the requirements and standards of the correctional institution.

They ensure that the curriculum covers all aspects of the job such as law enforcement, security procedures, crisis management, interpersonal communication, and inmate rights and treatment.

They are responsible for providing hands-on training, conducting seminars, workshops, and lectures to educate correctional officers about various aspects of their job.

This also includes the use of correctional equipment, self-defense tactics, and emergency response procedures.

Correctional Officer Instructors also evaluate the performance of the trainees during and after the training program, providing them with constructive feedback and guidance.

They also keep themselves updated with the latest developments in correctional practices and adapt the training programs accordingly.

Their role also involves maintaining detailed records of the training programs, the progress of the trainees, and any issues that arise during the training process.

This helps in refining future training programs and addressing any persistent issues.

In addition to teaching, they may also work closely with other prison staff and officials, participate in staff meetings, and provide input on improving institutional policies and procedures.

 

Correctional Officer Instructor Qualifications and Skills

A competent Correctional Officer Instructor should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of correctional procedures and regulations to effectively train and guide aspiring correctional officers.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to explain complex procedures in an understandable manner, resolve conflicts, and build relationships with trainees.
• Experience in creating and implementing training curriculums that meet the needs of diverse learning styles.
• Ability to evaluate trainee performance and provide constructive feedback to improve their skills and knowledge.
• Strong leadership and motivational skills to encourage active participation and maintain a high level of morale among trainees.
• Ability to handle high-stress situations, demonstrating patience, professionalism, and tactfulness.
• Strong physical fitness to demonstrate self-defense techniques and other physical requirements of the job.
• Experience with emergency response planning and implementation in a correctional setting.

 

Correctional Officer Instructor Experience Requirements

Candidates for the role of a Correctional Officer Instructor should ideally possess a significant amount of experience within the correctional system.

This is generally gained through at least 3-5 years of full-time work as a Correctional Officer, enabling them to fully understand the complexities and challenges of the job.

In addition to this, potential Correctional Officer Instructors should possess experience in training or teaching roles, demonstrating their ability to effectively communicate and impart knowledge to others.

This could be gained through on-the-job mentoring, delivering workshops or seminars, or even in a formal educational setting.

Some institutions may also require their Correctional Officer Instructors to possess advanced experience in areas such as crisis management, conflict resolution, or self-defense training.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have gained leadership skills and have the ability to handle administrative responsibilities in their previous roles.

This experience would be beneficial for potential managerial roles within the correctional instruction field.

Candidates may also be required to complete a certified training program and hold a valid correctional officer certification, demonstrating their understanding of laws and regulations governing the correctional system.

This also showcases their ability to adhere to professional ethical standards and guidelines.

In general, a broad range of correctional experience, combined with a demonstrated ability to educate and train others, is key for the role of a Correctional Officer Instructor.

 

Correctional Officer Instructor Education and Training Requirements

Correctional Officer Instructors typically require a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, corrections, criminology, or a related field.

They need comprehensive knowledge about the criminal justice system, correctional administration, and behavioral science.

Work experience as a correctional officer or in related law enforcement roles is usually necessary, with many employers requiring a minimum of three to five years in such positions.

Correctional Officer Instructors should also possess various certifications, such as the Correctional Officer Certification or the Correctional Training Instructor Certification.

These certifications are offered by various correctional associations and organizations and require ongoing education to maintain.

In some cases, a master’s degree in criminal justice or related field may be advantageous for more advanced or specialized roles.

This demonstrates a high level of knowledge in the field and may indicate leadership potential.

Extensive training on specific aspects of correctional work such as self-defense, crisis intervention, and emergency response is also required.

Additionally, Correctional Officer Instructors should have proven experience in training or instructing, as they will be responsible for educating other officers and staff in the facility.

Continuing education is also encouraged in this field to stay updated with the latest trends, laws, and practices in corrections.

 

Correctional Officer Instructor Salary Expectations

A Correctional Officer Instructor can expect to earn an average salary of $52,830 (USD) per year.

However, the salary may vary based on factors such as years of experience, level of education, specific training, and the state or federal institution they work for.

 

Correctional Officer Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Correctional Officer Instructor need?

Correctional Officer Instructors should have strong communication and leadership skills to effectively impart knowledge to their students.

They must also be highly knowledgeable about correctional operations, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.

Patience, discipline, and the ability to handle stress are also crucial.

 

Do Correctional Officer Instructors need a degree?

While a degree may not be mandatory, having a degree in criminal justice, corrections, or a related field can be beneficial.

Typically, Correctional Officer Instructors are expected to have a substantial amount of experience working in corrections.

They may also be required to have teaching or training certifications.

 

What should you look for in a Correctional Officer Instructor resume?

A Correctional Officer Instructor’s resume should highlight their experience in the corrections field.

Look for positions of responsibility, as these may indicate leadership and problem-solving skills.

Any teaching or training experience should also be noted.

Certifications in areas like first aid, crisis intervention, or use of force can be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Correctional Officer Instructor?

A good Correctional Officer Instructor is knowledgeable, approachable, and patient.

They should be able to clearly explain complex concepts and procedures, and be able to motivate and engage their students.

A good instructor will also stay updated on the latest corrections practices and legislation.

 

Is it difficult to hire Correctional Officer Instructors?

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

Many instructors come from a background of serving as correctional officers themselves, which can limit the candidate pool.

Offering competitive salaries, benefits, and opportunities for advancement can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve pulled back the veil on what it truly means to be a correctional officer instructor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about maintaining discipline.

It’s about shaping a secure and rehabilitative environment, one lesson at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive correctional officer instructor job description template and real-life examples, you’re prepared to make a career move.

But why stop here?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your next leap towards precision-tailored job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every lesson taught is a step towards a safer society.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a Correctional Officer Instructor (Complete Guide)

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