Correctional Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of law enforcement, the role of correctional officers is undeniably crucial.

As society evolves, the demand for dedicated professionals who can maintain order, ensure safety, and uphold the rights of incarcerated individuals heightens.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s genuinely expected of a correctional officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile of the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the day-to-day responsibilities of correctional officers,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a fully adjustable correctional officer job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Correctional Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Correctional Officers are responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in jail or prison.

They ensure the safety and security of the facility and aim to assist in the rehabilitation of inmates.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Maintain order within the institution and enforce rules and regulations
• Supervise activities of inmates and ensure they follow established policies and procedures
• Inspect facilities to ensure they meet security and safety standards
• Report on inmate conduct and any infractions of rules
• Search inmates and their living quarters for contraband items
• Escort and transport inmates within and outside the correctional facility
• Respond effectively and appropriately to emergencies, such as fights or escapes
• Assist in rehabilitation and counseling of offenders
• Complete administrative tasks such as writing reports and updating inmate files

 

Correctional Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a responsible and vigilant Correctional Officer to maintain safety and security within our correctional facility.

The candidate’s responsibilities include enforcing rules, maintaining order, preventing crime, and managing inmates.

The ideal candidate has a strong moral character, excellent observation skills, and the ability to make quick decisions.

Prior experience in law enforcement or related field will be considered an advantage.

 

Responsibilities

• Maintain order within the institution and enforce rules and regulations
• Monitor the activities and behavior of inmates to prevent crime and ensure security
• Inspect facilities to ensure they meet security and safety standards
• Manage inmates’ rehabilitation process and provide guidance when needed
• Prepare and maintain records of incidents and daily activities
• Transport inmates to and from court hearings and medical facilities
• Respond to emergencies, including fights and escape attempts

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Completion of a training academy and on-the-job training
• Knowledge of correctional laws and regulations
• Good physical condition and stamina
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to react quickly and effectively in stressful situations
• Must pass a criminal background check, drug test, and psychological examination

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Correctional Officer
• Work Environment: This role will primarily be based in a correctional facility. The job may involve exposure to potentially dangerous situations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Correctional Facility Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $36,000 minimum to $56,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• 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 Do?

Correctional Officers work in prisons, jails, and other correctional facilities, where they oversee individuals who have been arrested, are awaiting trial, or have been sentenced to serve time.

Their primary role is to ensure the security, safety, and orderliness of these facilities.

They enforce rules and regulations, supervise the activities of inmates, and prevent disturbances, assaults, or escapes.

Correctional Officers conduct periodic checks on inmates, inspect facilities to ensure they meet security and safety standards, and search inmates for contraband items.

They are trained to respond to emergencies, riots, confrontations, and physical altercations, and they may need to use force or restraints when necessary.

In addition to these duties, Correctional Officers often have a role in the rehabilitation of inmates.

They may escort inmates to and from workshops, meals, and recreational activities, and may oversee work details.

They also report on inmate conduct and progress, helping other professionals like social workers or probation officers to develop rehabilitation plans.

They maintain records and write reports on inmate behavior, and in some cases, may be asked to testify in court.

 

Correctional Officer Qualifications and Skills

Correctional officers utilize a combination of interpersonal skills, observation skills, and physical strength to maintain safety and security within a correctional facility.

These include:

• Strong interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with inmates, staff, and the public, often in stressful and difficult situations.
• Ability to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations to maintain safety and order within the facility.
• Physical strength and agility to handle challenging situations, such as restraining inmates during conflicts or emergencies.
• Good observation skills to identify any suspicious behavior or potential threats to the safety of the facility.
• Knowledge of criminal justice system and understanding of inmate rights and correctional procedures.
• Ability to handle stressful situations, such as conflicts among inmates or violent behavior.
• Strong ethical standards and integrity to handle sensitive information and situations with discretion.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports, giving instructions, and communicating with inmates, staff, and law enforcement.
• Problem-solving skills to address issues related to inmate behavior, facility operations, and staff interactions.

 

Correctional Officer Experience Requirements

Correctional Officers typically start with a high school diploma or equivalent.

Many institutions require candidates to complete a training academy, which provides foundational knowledge about law enforcement, self-defense, and emergency response.

Prior experience in the military, law enforcement or security can be beneficial.

Entry-level Correctional Officers usually have less than 2 years of experience in these related fields.

Candidates with 2 to 5 years of experience often have developed their skills in conflict resolution, crisis management, and inmate supervision, often in previous roles such as Police Officer, Security Guard, or Military Personnel.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have roles with increased responsibility, such as supervising other correctional officers or managing inmate rehabilitation programs.

Such individuals may be suitable for senior or managerial positions within correctional institutions.

Continued education, such as a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, can make a candidate more attractive for promotion or more specialized roles within the correctional system.

 

Correctional Officer Education and Training Requirements

Correctional Officers typically require at least a high school diploma or equivalent.

In addition, some agencies require correctional officers to have some college education or a degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field.

They undergo a training academy program, which can last for several weeks to several months.

This program covers topics such as institutional policies, regulations, operations, and security procedures.

All Correctional Officers must undergo on-the-job training upon starting their role, usually under the supervision of a senior officer.

The duration and content of this training vary by state but generally include learning about self-defense, institutional policies, the rights of inmates, and emergency response.

Some states require Correctional Officers to pass a certification exam after completing their training.

Additionally, Correctional Officers must maintain a certain level of physical fitness and might be required to pass periodic tests to prove they can respond appropriately to physical altercations or other incidents.

Continuous training is also important in this role due to the ever-evolving nature of correctional procedures and policies.

 

Correctional Officer Salary Expectations

A Correctional Officer earns an average salary of $45,320 (USD) per year.

The salary can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, location, and the specific institution of employment.

 

Correctional Officer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Correctional Officer need?

Correctional officers need strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively deal with inmates and co-workers.

They should possess excellent observation skills to detect any unusual inmate behavior.

Decision-making, conflict resolution, and self-defense skills are also essential.

A good correctional officer should also have a degree of emotional stability as the job can be stressful and potentially dangerous.

 

Do Correctional Officers need a degree?

A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum educational requirement for becoming a correctional officer.

However, some federal prisons require at least a bachelor’s degree.

Most correctional facilities provide on-the-job training, but a degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field can be beneficial.

 

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

The resume should show that the candidate has the requisite education and any relevant work experience.

Look for any training in self-defense, conflict resolution, and knowledge of criminal justice system procedures.

If they have any experience dealing with challenging or stressful situations, it could be a valuable asset.

Also, check if the candidate has any certifications relevant to correctional work.

 

What qualities make a good Correctional Officer?

A good Correctional Officer should be fair, firm, and consistent in their interactions with inmates.

They must have strong integrity and the ability to enforce rules and regulations without bias.

Resilience and stress management are also key, as the job involves working in a high-pressure environment.

A good Correctional Officer should also be physically fit to handle the demands of the job, and have the ability to make quick decisions in emergencies.

 

How challenging is the role of a Correctional Officer?

The role of a Correctional Officer can be quite challenging, given the environment they work in and the responsibilities they have.

They are tasked with maintaining order within the facility, enforcing rules, and preventing any potential dangerous situations.

The job can also be physically demanding and stressful due to the nature of the work and the inherent risks involved.

However, it can also be rewarding for those interested in a career in law enforcement or criminal justice.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unlocked the mysteries behind what it truly means to be a correctional officer.

Guess what?

It’s not just about maintaining order in a correctional facility.

It’s about safeguarding our society, one day at a time.

With our comprehensive correctional officer job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop here?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your surefire tool for constructing pinpoint-accurate listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every day on the job contributes to a safer community.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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