Corrections Facility Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the landscape of criminal justice, the role of corrections facility managers is more critical than ever.
As the complexity of the prison system evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can oversee, improve, and uphold the standards of our correctional facilities magnifies.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a corrections facility manager?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker attempting to comprehend the scope of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply intrigued by the operations of correctional facility management,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable corrections facility manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Corrections Facility Manager Duties and Responsibilities
Corrections Facility Managers are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a correctional facility, ensuring the safety and security of both staff and inmates.
They also perform administrative tasks and ensure the facility abides by relevant laws and regulations.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Supervising and directing the activities of correctional officers and other staff
- Ensuring the safety and security of the facility, its staff, and inmates
- Developing and implementing policies and procedures for the facility
- Managing the budget and allocating resources efficiently
- Overseeing the admission, classification, and release of inmates
- Ensuring that the facility complies with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations
- Working with medical, mental health, and educational professionals to ensure that inmates have access to necessary services
- Responding to emergencies and making quick decisions to maintain control in the facility
- Communicating with external agencies, including courts, law enforcement, and community service providers
- Managing staff training and development programs
- Addressing inmate complaints, grievances, and requests
Corrections Facility Manager Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Corrections Facility Manager to oversee all operations within our correctional institution.
The ideal candidate will implement policies, manage staff, and ensure the facility operates within all local, state, and federal laws.
The Corrections Facility Manager is responsible for maintaining a safe and secure environment for inmates, staff, and visitors.
They will also oversee the planning and coordination of inmate programs, such as educational and vocational training, substance abuse programs, and other rehabilitation efforts.
Responsibilities
- Manage and coordinate the daily operations of the correctional facility
- Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, policies, and laws
- Recruit, train, and supervise correctional staff
- Develop and implement security policies and procedures to maintain a safe environment
- Oversee the intake and release of inmates
- Coordinate and monitor inmate programs and rehabilitation efforts
- Manage the budget and resources of the facility
- Handle any emergencies or incidents within the facility
- Communicate with law enforcement agencies, court officials, and community organizations
Qualifications
- Proven experience in corrections or law enforcement management
- Knowledge of correctional procedures and legal regulations pertaining to prisoner rights and treatment
- Excellent leadership and decision-making abilities
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to handle high-stress situations and make quick decisions
- High level of integrity and ethical standards
- Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or related field
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Corrections Facility Manager
- Work Environment: This role is based within a correctional facility. It may involve exposure to potentially dangerous situations and individuals.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Corrections or other senior management.
- 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)
- 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 Corrections Facility Manager Do?
A Corrections Facility Manager, also known as a prison warden or superintendent, is responsible for the operation, management, and supervision of a correctional facility or prison.
They ensure the safety and security of both the staff and inmates, and are responsible for managing the facility’s budget, policies, and procedures.
This includes overseeing the hiring, training, and management of correctional officers and other staff members.
Corrections Facility Managers also play a crucial role in enforcing discipline among the inmates, managing potential conflicts, and ensuring the appropriate response to emergencies and incidents within the facility.
Additionally, they oversee programs aimed at prisoner rehabilitation, including educational programs, vocational training, counseling, and substance abuse treatment programs.
They also liaise with other law enforcement agencies, the court system, and community groups, and are often involved in the parole review process.
In summary, a Corrections Facility Manager ensures that the correctional facility operates smoothly and effectively, in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, and that it serves its fundamental purpose of ensuring public safety and aiding in the rehabilitation of offenders.
Corrections Facility Manager Qualifications and Skills
A proficient Corrections Facility Manager should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, such as:
- Extensive knowledge of correctional facility operations, rules, regulations, and procedures.
- Strong leadership and managerial skills to effectively oversee a team of correctional officers and maintain a safe, orderly environment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with staff, inmates, and external stakeholders such as law enforcement agencies.
- Ability to handle stressful situations calmly and professionally, maintaining the security of the facility and the safety of its residents and staff.
- Proficient in conflict resolution, with the ability to mediate disputes and enforce discipline within the facility.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills to manage logistical aspects of facility operations, including inmate scheduling and facility maintenance.
- Problem-solving skills to address and resolve issues that can arise within a correctional facility environment.
- Experience in budget management, ensuring the facility stays within its operational budget.
- Understanding of legal guidelines for area of security and public safety.
- Physical fitness and readiness to respond to emergencies and confrontations if necessary.
Corrections Facility Manager Experience Requirements
Corrections Facility Managers should ideally possess a minimum of 5 to 7 years of experience in correctional facilities, law enforcement, or a related field.
This experience should include several years in a supervisory or managerial position, allowing them to gain the necessary leadership and administrative skills required for the job.
Entry-level professionals might start their careers in roles such as Correctional Officer or Probation Officer, accumulating knowledge about the corrections system, inmate management, and the legal aspects of the job.
After gaining sufficient experience, they might move into roles such as Correctional Sergeant, Lieutenant, or even a Warden, which will expose them to aspects of facility management and the administrative responsibilities of running a correctional institution.
Professionals with more than 10 years of experience and a strong background in leadership and administrative roles within correctional institutions may be well-suited for the role of a Corrections Facility Manager.
This level of experience should ideally include strategic planning, inmate rehabilitation program development, facility safety protocols, and personnel management.
Continuing education, such as advanced degrees in criminal justice, corrections, or public administration, can also supplement practical experience and provide a competitive edge in the field.
Corrections Facility Manager Education and Training Requirements
A Corrections Facility Manager often needs a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field.
Certain roles may require a master’s degree in criminology, corrections administration, or a similar field.
This higher level of education can help to develop managerial and leadership skills, as well as provide a deeper understanding of the corrections system.
Knowledge of law enforcement principles, correctional institution operations and legal codes is critical for this role.
This knowledge can be obtained through academic coursework and practical work experience.
In addition to formal education, candidates often need several years of experience in corrections or law enforcement, frequently with a portion of that time spent in a supervisory or managerial role.
Many states require Corrections Facility Managers to be certified.
This certification process typically involves attending a training academy, passing a written examination, and meeting certain physical fitness requirements.
Continued education and training is also important in this role as it keeps the manager updated with the latest trends and advances in correctional system.
Professional development courses in areas such as management skills, conflict resolution, and crisis intervention can be beneficial.
In order to advance in this field, a Corrections Facility Manager may also need to complete specialized training programs offered by the American Jail Association or other similar organizations.
These programs focus on leadership development, advanced correctional management strategies, and ethical decision-making.
Corrections Facility Manager Salary Expectations
A Corrections Facility Manager earns an average salary of $62,500 (USD) per year.
The actual earnings may vary depending on factors such as level of experience, the size and location of the facility, and the employing entity.
Corrections Facility Manager Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Corrections Facility Manager need?
Corrections Facility Managers should possess strong leadership and management skills.
They must be able to maintain discipline and ensure security within the facility.
Good communication and interpersonal skills are crucial in dealing with inmates, staff, and external agencies.
They also need to have a good understanding of correctional laws, procedures, and regulations.
Do Corrections Facility Managers need a degree?
Yes, a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, social work, psychology or a related field is usually required.
In addition, experience in corrections, law enforcement, or a similar field is often necessary.
Some positions may also require a master’s degree in public administration or a related field.
What should you look for in a Corrections Facility Manager resume?
Look for evidence of leadership experience, preferably in a correctional facility.
Check their education to ensure they have a degree in a relevant field.
Also, look for any specialized training they might have completed, such as courses in correctional administration or criminal justice.
Familiarity with the legal system and crisis management skills are also beneficial.
What qualities make a good Corrections Facility Manager?
A good Corrections Facility Manager is a strong leader who is able to uphold the law and maintain order within the facility.
They should be fair, compassionate, and able to make tough decisions when necessary.
They must also be able to handle stressful situations and manage conflicts effectively.
Above all, they should be committed to rehabilitating inmates and ensuring they are treated with dignity and respect.
Is it difficult to hire Corrections Facility Managers?
Hiring a Corrections Facility Manager can be challenging due to the specific set of skills and experiences required for the role.
The job is demanding and stressful, which can make it difficult to attract and retain qualified candidates.
However, offering competitive salaries, good benefits, and opportunities for professional development can help attract top talent.
Conclusion
There you have it.
Today, we’ve unveiled the true nature of being a Corrections Facility Manager.
Surprised?
It’s not just about overseeing inmates.
It’s about ensuring safety and justice, one day at a time.
With our comprehensive Corrections Facility Manager job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to step up.
But why limit yourself?
Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your ideal tool for creating precision-tailored job listings or refining your resume to stand out.
Remember:
Every decision made within a correctional facility contributes to a larger goal.
Let’s uphold justice. Together.
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