Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the field of law enforcement, the importance of Correctional Officer Shift Supervisors has never been more prevalent.

As the need for safety and order within our correctional systems increases, so too does the demand for effective leaders who can manage, guide, and ensure the security of our prison infrastructures.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the complexities of this role,
• A hiring manager detailing the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the mechanics of correctional supervision,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor Duties and Responsibilities

Correctional Officer Shift Supervisors play a critical role in the prison system, managing staff, maintaining safety, and coordinating operations during their shift.

They ensure all activities are conducted according to regulations and the prison environment is secure and orderly.

The duties and responsibilities of a Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor include:

• Oversee the management and safety of inmates during the assigned shift
• Conduct inspections of facilities to ensure adherence to safety and security standards
• Supervise and coordinate the activities of correctional officers
• Resolve conflicts or disturbances among inmates and staff
• Prepare and maintain reports and records related to incidents, staff performance, and inmate behavior
• Enforce rules, regulations, and procedures within the correctional facility
• Facilitate training programs for correctional officers as required
• Assist in inmate rehabilitation and counseling
• Coordinate with other shift supervisors to ensure seamless transition between shifts
• Respond to emergencies and initiate emergency response procedures

 

Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a responsible and experienced Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor to oversee the operations of our correctional facility during designated shifts.

The successful candidate will be responsible for supervising correctional officers and inmates, ensuring adherence to policies and procedures, and maintaining safety and security within the facility.

 

Responsibilities

• Supervise correctional officers to ensure the maintenance of order, discipline, and security within the facility.
• Conduct regular inspections of officers, inmates, and facilities to ensure compliance with regulations.
• Resolve conflicts and handle emergencies quickly and effectively.
• Enforce disciplinary measures as necessary.
• Prepare and maintain records and reports.
• Assist in the training and development of new correctional officers.
• Ensure that all officers adhere to institutional policies and procedures.
• Communicate effectively with staff, inmates, and external entities.
• Coordinate with other shift supervisors to ensure consistent operations.
• Review incident reports and conduct investigations as required.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a correctional officer, preferably in a leadership role.
• Excellent knowledge of correctional procedures and regulations.
• Ability to handle high-stress situations calmly and effectively.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• High school diploma or equivalent required. Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice or related field preferred.
• Valid state correctional officer certification.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor
• Work Environment: Correctional Facility
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the 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)
• 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 Shift Supervisor Do?

A Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor typically works in a prison or jail, overseeing the activities of correctional officers during a particular shift.

They are responsible for the safety and security of both the correctional facility and the inmates within it.

Their primary duties often include managing and coordinating the activities of correctional officers and ensuring that they fulfill their duties and responsibilities adequately.

Correctional Officer Shift Supervisors monitor inmate behavior to prevent disturbances and escapes.

They are also responsible for enforcing disciplinary measures when rules are violated, as well as ensuring that the rights of inmates are respected.

They often have administrative duties such as scheduling shifts, conducting staff meetings, training new correctional officers, and writing reports on inmate behavior or incidents within the facility.

They may also interact with inmates, addressing their concerns or grievances, and supervise visitations to ensure they occur in a secure and orderly manner.

The Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor must also respond to emergencies and potentially dangerous situations, making split-second decisions to ensure the safety of staff, inmates, and visitors.

This role demands strong leadership abilities, excellent communication skills, and a firm understanding of the laws and regulations governing correctional facilities.

 

Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor Qualifications and Skills

A Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor should possess the qualifications and skills that align with the job description, including:

• Strong leadership skills to effectively manage a team of correctional officers, providing guidance, direction, and discipline as necessary.
• Exceptional communication skills for clear and effective interaction with subordinates, peers, and inmates, ensuring that instructions and policies are understood and followed.
• Conflict resolution skills to mediate disputes among inmates or between staff and inmates, maintaining a safe and orderly environment.
• Strong decision-making abilities to make quick and accurate decisions in high-stress situations, often with limited information.
• Knowledge of correctional facility operations and regulations to ensure the adherence of rules and procedures by both inmates and staff.
• Physical strength and stamina to handle the physical demands of the job, including potential altercations with inmates, and long periods of standing or walking.
• Detail-oriented nature to accurately document incidents, maintain inmate records, and monitor the facility for any irregularities.
• Problem-solving skills to identify issues that may compromise the safety or integrity of the facility and develop solutions to address these concerns.

 

Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor Experience Requirements

The role of a Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor often requires several years of experience in correctional facilities.

Typically, an individual may need to start as a Correctional Officer, gaining frontline experience within a jail or prison setting for a minimum of 3 to 5 years.

During this time, individuals will learn the daily operations, security protocols, and management of inmates, all of which are essential skills for a Shift Supervisor.

It is also beneficial for the candidate to have experience in dealing with a variety of situations such as riots, emergencies, or delicate negotiations, as they may be responsible for handling such situations in their supervisory role.

Additionally, some roles may require candidates to have taken on previous leadership roles within a correctional facility, such as a Senior Correctional Officer or Assistant Shift Supervisor.

This is to ensure they are familiar with managing teams and coordinating schedules, as well as handling administrative tasks.

Those with more than 5 to 7 years of experience in correctional facilities may have developed a higher level of expertise and may be ready for a Shift Supervisor role.

Some correctional facilities may also require candidates to have completed specific training programs or hold a degree in criminal justice or a related field.

Note: Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor positions often require a thorough background check, and previous experience in law enforcement could be considered a strong asset.

 

Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor Education and Training Requirements

Correctional Officer Shift Supervisors usually require a high school diploma or GED.

Many states and federal jurisdictions also require some college credits, but relevant work experience can often be substituted.

Typically, prospective Correctional Officer Shift Supervisors begin their careers as correctional officers to gain the necessary experience.

Some employers require a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field, especially for those aspiring to a supervisory role.

Most correctional facilities provide on-the-job training which could last for several weeks to months, including legal limitations, institutional policies, and procedures, as well as specific security techniques.

In addition to these requirements, all correctional officers and supervisors must attend a training academy, followed by official certification, which is granted upon the successful completion of a written exam, physical fitness test, and sometimes, a psychological evaluation.

Advanced roles such as a Shift Supervisor may require additional courses or certifications in leadership, conflict resolution, or crisis management.

Correctional Officer Shift Supervisors also need to demonstrate excellent communication, decision-making, and negotiation skills, as well as the ability to handle stressful situations.

Continued education and training, such as staying updated with changes in laws and procedures, is generally necessary for advancement in this field.

 

Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor Salary Expectations

A Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor can expect to earn an average salary of $47,000 (USD) per year.

The salary may fluctuate depending on factors such as years of experience, qualifications, and the location of the facility.

 

Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor need?

A Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor should have excellent leadership and management skills to oversee the activities of correctional officers.

They should also have strong communication skills to liaise with personnel and inmates.

They should have good decision-making skills and the ability to handle emergencies or conflicts that may occur in the facility.

Knowledge of correctional procedures and laws is also crucial.

 

What are the daily duties of a Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor?

A Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor oversees the activities of correctional officers during their shift.

They are responsible for ensuring that officers adhere to established protocols and procedures.

They assign tasks, handle complaints, and manage conflicts.

They also supervise the movement and behavior of inmates, ensuring their safety and the overall security of the facility.

 

What qualities make a good Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor?

A good Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor has strong leadership abilities and can effectively manage and motivate their team.

They have a keen eye for detail, which helps in monitoring the facility and identifying potential security risks.

They are also calm under pressure, capable of making quick decisions in emergency situations.

A good supervisor also maintains high standards of professional conduct and fairness, ensuring the respect and cooperation of both staff and inmates.

 

Do Correctional Officer Shift Supervisors need a degree?

Correctional Officer Shift Supervisors do not necessarily need a degree, although some facilities may prefer candidates with a degree in criminal justice or a related field.

However, they must have substantial experience as a correctional officer and proven leadership abilities.

Some facilities may also require supervisors to undertake further training in management or corrections.

 

What should you look for in a Correctional Officer Shift Supervisor resume?

Look for a strong background in corrections, including substantial experience as a correctional officer.

Leadership experience, whether in corrections or another setting, is also vital.

Any additional training in management, conflict resolution, or related areas is a plus.

The candidate should also demonstrate a clear understanding of correctional procedures and laws.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the veil on the true nature of being a correctional officer shift supervisor.

And guess what?

It’s not merely about monitoring prisoners and maintaining order.

It’s about shaping a safer and more secure environment, one shift at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive correctional officer shift supervisor job description template and concrete examples, you’re all ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating detailed job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every shift you oversee contributes to a larger, safer community.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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