What is a Correctional Officer?
A correctional officer, also known as a detention officer, is a law enforcement agent who is responsible for supervising prisoners, enforcing rules and keeping order in a prison. Correctional officers are in-charge of maintaining security by preventing any disturbances, assaults and attempts to escape. They aid in the rehabilitation and counseling of people involved in criminal offences and the supervision of their daily activities. In addition to that, they are also responsible for inspecting prison facilities for any required updates or improvements, searching inmates for any illegal items and reporting on the overall conduct of the prisoners.
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Now that you are clear on what a correctional officer does, you might be wondering how to become a corrections officer. Read on to find out how.
Skills Required to Become a Correctional Officer
To become a successful correctional officer, it is essential to possess a specific set of skills and attributes that will help you effectively manage and maintain a safe and secure environment within a correctional facility. Here are some key skills and qualities required for this role:
Physical Fitness
Correctional officers must be in good physical shape, as the job often involves standing for long periods, restraining or subduing inmates, and responding to emergencies.
Interpersonal Skills
The ability to communicate and interact effectively with inmates, coworkers, and supervisors is crucial. Building rapport and maintaining a professional demeanor is necessary for maintaining order and respect within the facility.
Emotional Intelligence
Correctional officers need to manage their emotions and understand those of others, especially when dealing with potentially volatile situations. Being able to empathize, maintain self-control, and remain calm under pressure is essential.
Observational Skills
Keen attention to detail and the ability to recognize potential problems or threats is critical for maintaining security and preventing incidents within a correctional facility.
Conflict Resolution
Officers must be adept at resolving conflicts among inmates and deescalating tense situations. This includes using negotiation, problem-solving, and mediation skills.
Integrity and Ethics
Correctional officers are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, honesty, and ethical behavior, both on and off the job.
Adaptability and Resilience
Officers should be able to handle stress, adapt to changing circumstances, and maintain a positive attitude despite the challenging environment they work in.
Cultural Competency
Correctional facilities house diverse populations, so understanding and respecting various cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values is essential for fostering a harmonious environment.
Decision-making and Critical Thinking
Officers must be able to assess situations, weigh options, and make sound decisions quickly, especially in emergencies.
Time Management and Organization
Correctional officers are responsible for managing multiple tasks, such as supervising inmates, conducting searches, and completing paperwork. Efficient time management and organizational skills are crucial to performing these duties effectively.
In addition to these skills, most correctional officer positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may require additional education or certification, such as completion of a training academy. Many jurisdictions also require a thorough background check and a clean criminal record.
Work Environment for a Correctional Officer
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Correctional Officers and Bailiffs held nearly 419,000 jobs in 2021. A majority of these worked at the federal, state or local government level while some were employed by private companies.
The job of a correctional officer can get pretty tough. You may be required to stand for long periods of time. Your work might be indoors or outdoors and the conditions of the facility you work in will play a huge part in how comfortable the job is for you. Some correctional facilities are temperature controlled and properly ventilated, while others might be old, overcrowded, noisy and hot.
A typical correctional officer usually works 8 hours per day, 5 days per week on rotating shifts. Since prisons operate on a 24/7 basis, officers are required to work all hours, day or night, weekends and even holidays.
There are different careers that you can pursue with a corrections degree. Some include:
- General Corrections Officer.
- Corrections Counselor.
- Corrections Administrator.
- Probation Officer.
- Substance Abuse Counselor.
- Activities Specialist.
- Local Corrections Officer.
- Juvenile Corrections Officer.
- State Correctional Administrator.
- Federal Correctional Case Manager.
How to Become a Corrections Officer?
Education
Corrections officers are required to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. State and local corrections organizations might require some college credits. Military or any other law enforcement experience might be substituted for this requirement in certain circumstances.If you are looking for employment in federal prisons, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree for an entry level job, as per the requirements of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. You might also be required to have at least 3 years of full-time experience relating to counseling, assistance or supervision of individuals.
Training
In addition to educational requirements, training is a very integral part of the process of becoming a correctional officer. These trainings are provided by federal, state and some local departments of corrections as well as by private corrections companies. The trainings conducted need to be in compliance with the guidelines of the American Correctional Association (ACA). Some states have academies that teach a number of subjects including self-defense, operations, regulations, institutional policies, custody and security processes.After this, candidates receive on the job training as well. This includes training on legal restrictions and interpersonal relations. An experienced officer typically conducts this training, which lasts for several weeks at times.
New federal corrections officers are required to complete 200 hours of formal training within their first year of employment. This includes 120 hours of specialized training at the Federal Bureau of Prisons residential trainings center. Annual in-service trainings are also a frequent matter to keep officers updated on the latest development and procedures.
Trainings conducted for correctional officers usually include methods of response to disturbances, hostage situations, riots and other potentially perilous situations. Trainees are taught basic safety measures, crisis management and self defense techniques.
Keep in Mind!
Requirements for becoming a correctional officer might vary according to state but there are a few common criteria for eligibility:
- Candidate must be at least 18 years of age
- He must have a valid driver’s license
- All physical and physiological examinations must be cleared along with a thorough background check
- Candidate should have good communication skills
How long does it take to become a Correctional Officer?
The answer to the amount of time required to become a correctional officer varies according to the educational path you take. For instance, if you go for a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as criminal justice, you will spend four years in college. And upon graduation, you will need to enroll in a training program which could take between 6 to 12 months.
So, now that you are aware of how to become a correctional officer, read on to find out what the job entails.
Work Environment for a Correctional Officer
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Correctional Officers and Bailiffs held nearly 462,300 jobs in 2019. A majority of these worked at the federal, state or local government level while some were employed by private companies.
The job of a correctional officer can get pretty tough. You may be required to stand for long periods of time. Your work might be indoors or outdoors and the conditions of the facility you work in will play a huge part in how comfortable the job is for you. Some correctional facilities are temperature controlled and properly ventilated, while others might be old, overcrowded, noisy and hot.
A typical correctional officer usually works 8 hours per day, 5 days per week on rotating shifts. Since prisons operate on a 24/7 basis, officers are required to work all hours, day or night, weekends and even holidays.
Beware of the Offenders!
So when applying to become a correctional officer, be mentally prepared for the amount of energy you will be required to put into the job and the types of circumstances you might have to face.
How Much Can I Earn as a Correctional Officer in the US?
If you are wondering what the requirements are to become a correctional officer and the kind of money they make, then we have the information you need. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Correctional Officers and Jailers earned $ 53,420 as mean annual salary in the US in 2021.
Below are the top paying states for
State | Annual Mean Wage |
California | $ 81,170 |
New Jersey | $ 73,490 |
Massachusetts | $ 72,260 |
New York | $ 71,160 |
Oregon | $ 68,790 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)
Career Outlook
In comparison to other jobs in similar field, not much growth is seen for Correctional Officers and Jailers in the US. In fact, according to the job projections by BLS, Correctional Officers and Jailers will experience 0% growth between 2021 and 2031. There are some states however, that have good opportunities for correctional officers.
States with the highest employment level in Correctional Officers and Jailers:
State | Employment |
Texas | 39,030 |
California | 37,640 |
New York | 34,280 |
Florida | 21,890 |
Pennsylvania | 16,590 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)