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Correctional Officer Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Edited by Indeed Employer Content Team
Last updated March 4, 2025

A Correctional Officer, or Prison Guard, is responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining routines at a jail, prison or another correctional facility. Their duties include inspecting jail cells according to security protocols and safety codes, supervising individuals impacted by the legal system during meals and recreational time and diffusing conflicts between individuals to help preserve peace and order.

Correctional Officer duties and responsibilities

The important responsibilities of a Correctional Officer include maintaining a consistent routine and demeanor, because in corrections, security and control are vital. Some of the daily duties include:

  • Regular head counts of individuals within a section
  • Monitor individuals behavior and report unusual activity to ensure safety and security
  • Escort individuals to job sites, medical facilities, classrooms or wherever they are needed in a timely, secure manner
  • Assist other Correctional Officers with management of individuals
  • Conduct regular searches of individuals areas like cells, recreation rooms and showers for unauthorized items
  • Manage confrontational situations as they arise to maintain security
  • Write regular reports of activities

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Correctional Officer Job Description Examples

Example 1

Salary Information

Entry Level Full Time Correctional Officer:

16.14 per Hour.

Flexible schedule. To be determined upon completion of interview

Reports To: Sergeant/Lieutenant

Department: Security

Facility: Columbiana County Jail

JOB Description

This is an entry-level position. Upon completion of training, new candidates will work closely with supervisors and other staff to maintain custody, care, and control of individuals within the facility. Others duties such as lawn care, painting, and covering call offs will be determined after interview and availability.

Pre-employment Background and Drug Screening Required

Flexible schedule to be discussed during interview.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Oversees and monitors the activities of the individuals in living areas, recreation activities areas, dining areas, and visitation areas. Other duties to be discussed during interview.

Coordinates and monitors individuals movements and conducts counts.

Candidates will be trained to work various posts including booking and control center.

Candidates will be trained on preparing reports and maintaining daily logs.

Candidates will help promote facility cleanliness.

Performs other duties such as lawn care, painting, and covering call offs, as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

High school diploma or equivalent certification required.

Flexible and willing to work with individuals impacted by the legal system and be committed to the objectives of the facility.
  • Age: 18
  • Experience: Preferred, but not required as training is provided.

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: $16.14 per hour

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • 12 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Overnight shift
  • Weekends as needed



    Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Lisbon, OH 44432: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Preferred)

    Education:
  • High school or equivalent (Preferred)

    Shift availability:
  • Day Shift (Preferred)
  • Overnight Shift Location: In person

    • Example 2

    The Florida Department of Correctionsat Hardee Correctional Institution (Bowling Green, FL) is currently looking for individuals that uphold our values of Respect, Integrity, Courage, Selfless Service, AND Compassion to join our team.

    The Florida Department of Corrections is the largest state agency in Florida and the third largest correctional agency in the country supervising and caring for around 250,000 individuals impacted by the legal system. With over 25,000 staff members with the goal of providing a continuum of services to meet the needs of those entrusted to our care, creating a safe and professional environment with the outcome of reduced victimization, safer communities, and an emphasis on the premium of life. You can be an instrumental part of Inspiring success by transforming one life at a time.

    Correctional Officers oversee and monitor the activities of the individuals in living areas, recreation activities areas, dining areas and visitation areas. While coordinating and monitoring individuals movements, conducting counts and providing emergency response as needed all while maintaining a safe and orderly environment. Correctional Officers MUST be able to work as a team and coordinate activities with fellow officers and supervisors.

    As a recruit, you will attend a 12-week academy to prepare you for a career as a correctional officer. Courses including firearms training, defensives tactics, first aid, and more. While attending the academy recruits can expect 10 hours a day Monday-Friday. Recruits will return to their own residence and are not required to stay overnight. Upon completion the recruit must take and pass the State Officer Certification Exam.

    Minimum Qualifications:

  • 18 years old
  • United States Citizen
  • High School Graduate or equivalent
  • Valid Driver s License
  • No Felony Convictions

    Documentation that must be provide upon request:

  • Birth Certificate or passport
  • High school diploma, transcripts or equivalent non-certified copies are acceptable (some college transcripts are acceptable)
  • Driver s License
  • Social Security Card
  • Selective Service Registration or DD214 if applicable
  • Name Change Documents: If your name has ever changed for the following reasons documentation is required i.e.: adoption, marriage, divorce
  • Past employment information for the past 3 years to include: place of employment, supervisor, contact information.

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Evening shift
  • Night shift
    Supplemental pay types:
  • Signing Location: In person

    • Example 3

    Pay:$18.00 per hour, a raise to $19.00 after six months, and $20.00 at one year of employment.

    Work with a purpose! Begin a rewarding career in corrections as a Correctional Officer at Lindsey State Jail in Jacksboro, TX where you will utilize your skills and abilities to change the life of residents.

    Work schedule: Full-time; 12-hour shift (day & night) Benefits Include:
  • Health/dental/vision/life insurance
  • AD&D, short-term and Long-term disability
  • 401(k)
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays
  • Career advancement opportunities

    Job Responsibilities:Responsible for the custody and care of offenders, and maintaining order and discipline in compliance with Management & Training Corporation (MTC) and Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) directives.

    Essential functions:
  • Search for contraband and provide security.
  • Count, feed and supervise offenders in housing, work and other areas, which include climbing stairs.
  • Provide custody and security of offenders including observation, which includes long periods of sitting and standing.
  • Perform security functions including “pat” and “strip” searches, by squatting and bending to perform such functions.
  • Prepare and maintain accurate records and reports.
  • Respond to emergencies and maintain order during incidents.
  • Monitor resident behavior and enforce rules and regulations.

    Education and Experience Requirements:
  • No previous experience required.
  • Graduation from an accredited senior high school or equivalent or GED.
  • Continued employment is contingent upon passing exams and skill tests in the TDCJ Correctional Officer Pre-service Training Academy.
  • Valid driver license in the state of Texas with an acceptable driving record required, unless waived by management.

    Management & Training Corporation (MTC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disabled status, veteran status, genetic information, national origin, or any other category protected by federal law. MTC participates in E-Verify. We strive to provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, including disabled veterans, in our job application and hiring process. If you are interested in employment opportunities with Management & Training Corporation and need assistance, please contact our staffing department through [website] or [phone number].

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: $18.00 per hour

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • 12 hour shift



    Ability to Commute:
  • Azle, TX Location: In person

    • Example 4

    The Stutsman County Correctional Center is seeking applicants interested in serving their community via the correctional setting. This is an excellent career option for anyone looking to start their criminal justice career.

    Job Description:

    Correctional Officer - PART TIME

    Essential Position TASKS
    (NOTE: The duties listed are not intended to be all-inclusive.)
  • Candidates for this position must be able to respond to emergency situations in the jail, provide medical assistance including CPR.

  • Process incoming arrestees and perform interviews to obtain medical history, criminal legal system history, jail classification, searches individuals, secures personal property of individuals, takes photographs and fingerprints, issues jail clothing and bedding.

  • Conduct searches of individuals cell, body (clothed and unclothed), property and work area to ensure control of contraband and compliance with institutional health standards.

  • Supervises the daily activities of individuals, including feeding and general care, discipline, medical needs, and cleaning of cell blocks and jail facility by individuals.
  • Monitors video cameras inside and outside jail facility.

  • Conduct counts at designated times to ensure security and early detection of escapees.

  • Complete verbal and written reports to supervisors regarding behavior, rule violation, work and repair orders, security issues and transportation of individuals.

    Qualifications:

    Must be 18 or older
  • Requires regular and timely work attendance.
  • Knowledge of or ability to learn current law enforcement principles, state laws, court procedures, practices, techniques and equipment.
  • Ability to react effectively and deal tactfully with persons in emergency and stressful situations.
  • Possess and maintain the physical ability sufficient to:
    1.) Physically restrain a person; 2.) Defend self and others in physical encounters; 3.) Withstand the stress of performing lifesaving techniques. Must be able to read, write, and speak English language.

  • Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; ability to read materials presenting complicated information such as legal documents, policy manuals, and state statutes.
  • Knowledge in use of computers and video camera monitoring equipment.
  • Knowledge of the Department's organization, policies and procedures.
  • Ability to interact with individuals in the housing unit and actively supervise them to identify problems in their early stages
  • Ability to communicate positively and use management techniques to prevent negative behavior and encourage positive behavior.
  • Must be able to handle high levels of stress while making prompt and effective decisions
  • Ability to deal with individuals impacted by the legal system with tact and impartiality; and exhibit sound judgment, imagination, initiative and problem solving capability in dealing with individuals with criminal legal system involvement.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, law enforcement and other agency personnel and the public.

  • Successfully complete a legal background check in accordance with Local, State, and Federal guidelines.

    Job Type: Part-time

    Pay: $22.03 per hour

    Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision Location: In person

    • Example 5

    Officer Salary Highlights
  • Starting Salary $41,844.00/YR ($20.12/HR)
  • AFTER 6 Months OF Employment $44,354.64/YR ($21.32/HR)
  • AFTER 12 Months OF Employment $46,028.40/YR ($22.12/HR)

    *****For more information call Lieutenant Couey at [phone number]

    MUST BE 21 YRS OF AGE OR OLDER. (18-20 Years old can be hired if you have previous law enforcement or military experience.)

    MUST NOT HAVE ANY Felony Convictions, DRUG Convictions, Fighting OR Shoplifting Convictions.

    Under supervision, maintains custody and security of prisoners and other incarcerated offenders and maintains order in correctional institutions and other places of detention. Transports offenders to and from correctional facilities. Takes offenders in custody and escort to locations within and outside of the facility. Responds to emergencies. Prepares admission, program, releases, transfers and other reports. Patrols assigned areas and report any problems. Oversees offenders during work assignments, meals, and recreation periods. Observes conduct and behavior of offenders to prevent disturbances and escapes. Maintains order, discipline, and security within assigned areas in accordance with relevant rules, regulations, policies and laws. Inspects, inventories, maintains physical control of, logs keys, tools, weapons and related equipment. Handles and trains canines for tracking, search and rescue, guard duty, detection of contraband. Guards facility entrances in order to screen visitors. Escorts offenders in transit and during temporary leaves. Enforces rules, regulations, and state laws necessary for control and management of offenders and the maintenance of public safety. Enforces all institutional policies, rules, procedures, and regulations

    Qualifications:
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Social Security Card
  • Birth Certificate
  • High school diploma or GED and any combination of training and experience which would enable the applicant to meet the minimum standards of the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (P.O.S.T.)

    THIS JOB IS FOR A Correctional Officer Position AT

    Telfair STATE Prison, 170 Longbridge ROAD MCRAE-Helena, GA 31037
  • I can meet applicants at a public location that you are comfortable with to conduct the application process.
  • This can save you gas money and help secure a new career!

    Jeremy Couey

    Recruitment Lieutenant

    Telfair State Prison

    (229) 315-4105

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: $41,844.00 - $46,028.40 per year

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee discount
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Professional development assistance
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • 12 hour shift

    COVID-19 considerations:
    All staff and offenders are required to adhere to COVID-19 safe practices.

    Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Nicholls, GA 31554: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

    Application Question(s):
  • Are you willing to submit to a background check?

    Education:
  • High school or equivalent (Required)

    Language:
  • English (Required)

    License/Certification:
  • Driver's License Location: One location

    • Example 6

    About the Rockville Correctional Facility:
    The Rockville Correctional Facility is a medium-security adult female facility located on approximately 52 acres, one mile northwest of Rockville, Indiana.

    The Department of Correction developed the prior Air Force base into a juvenile male facility In 1970. In 1992, after moving through stages from young juveniles to older juveniles, to co-ed with adolescents makes an adult female offender on the same grounds, to adult females alone, the facility became the largest female facility in the Department of Correction.

    About the Job:
    As the Correctional Officer, you will be responsible for working as a part of a team in an Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) facility for juvenile or adult offenders. You will be reporting to a Correctional Sergeant working on a 12-hour shift, rotating across a variety of duty assignments as needed. You will be responsible for supervising the offenders and monitoring their daily activities. This includes directing and ensuring that the offenders perform their daily activities on schedules such as meals, recreation, education, programs, and work assignments.

    Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans.
  • Wellness program (offers a premium discount for the medical plan and gift cards);
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution;
  • Deferred compensation 457B account (similar to 401k plan) with employer match;
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options;
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
  • 150 hours of paid new parent leave;
  • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave;

  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off;
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years;
  • Education Reimbursement Program;
  • Group life insurance;
  • Referral Bonus program;
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits;
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program;
  • Free Parking for most positions;
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access;

    A Day in the Life:
  • Monitor assigned areas at various intervals for the security of offenders, count of offenders, and security of buildings and grounds.
  • Follow and ensure compliance with established security procedures.
  • Manage offenders in various work details including general clean-up of institutional grounds and buildings.
  • Escort offenders to and from various locations across the facility for food, medicines, work assignment, and recreation.
  • Keep records and make reports on such matters as offender's movements, activities, and rule violations.
  • Search offender housing areas and visitors for possible unauthorized items.

    What You'll Need for Success:
  • Possession of a High School Diploma or High School Equivalent (HSE).
  • At least eighteen (18) years of age.
  • Possess a valid driver's license.
  • Must test negative on all drug screenings.

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: $19.00 - $20.00 per hour

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee discount
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • 12 hour shift
  • 3x12
  • Day shift
  • Evening shift
  • Holidays
  • Monday to Friday
  • Night shift
  • Overnight shift
  • Overtime
  • Weekend availability

    License/Certification:
  • Driver's License Location: One location

    • Example 7

    About the Wabash Valley Correctional Facility
    The Wabash Valley Correctional Facility is a minimum/maximum security adult facility located on approximately 340 acres north of Carlisle, Indiana in Sullivan County. It currently houses approximately 2,050 offenders.

    Next-level benefits at the State of Indiana are here! Be sure to review our expanded benefit package offerings below.

    About the Job:
    A Correctional Officer works on an assigned shift in a specific unit/or post under the general supervision of a Correctional Sergeant. This individual maintains the security of the unit as well as the safety of staff and offenders while ensuring daily activities and programs proceed on schedule.

    Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana::
  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans.
  • Wellness program (offers a premium discount for the medical plan and gift cards);
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution;
  • Deferred compensation 457B account (similar to 401k plan) with employer match;
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options;
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
  • 150 hours of paid new parent leave;
  • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave;

  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off;
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years;
  • Education Reimbursement Program up to $5,250.00;
  • Group life insurance;
  • Referral Bonus program;
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits;
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program;
  • Free Parking for most positions;
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access;

    A Day in the Life:
  • Remains alert for signs of disorder or tension
  • Patrols assigned areas at various intervals for the security of offenders, count of offenders, and security of buildings and grounds
  • Follows or ensures compliance with established security procedures
  • Tower duty which includes the possession and possible use of firearms
  • Maintains lock control at specific posts
  • Supervises offenders in various work details including general clean-up of institutional grounds and buildings
  • Supervises offenders during shower and bath periods
  • Escorts offenders to and from the visiting room and dining room and on various trips away from the institution
  • Counsels with offenders when necessary, discussing offender's problems in an informal and unofficial capacity
  • Keeps records and makes reports on such matters as movements of individuals with criminal legal system involvement and progress and offender's violation of rules
  • Works in shake-downs of cell blocks and/or dormitories, searching for possible contraband
  • Searches vehicles entering and leaving the gates for contraband and trafficking offenses
  • Searches visitors and all packages for contraband
  • Encourages offenders to accept professional assistance from staff

    What We're Looking For:
  • Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age
  • Possession of a high school diploma or possession of a High School Equivalent (HSE).
  • Willingness to undergo a background investigation.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license from state of residence.

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: $19.00 - $20.00 per hour

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee discount
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • 12 hour shift
  • 3x12
  • Day shift
  • Evening shift
  • Holidays
  • Night shift
  • Overnight shift
  • Overtime
  • Weekend Location: One location
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    What does a Correctional Officer do?

    Correctional Officers work closely with individuals impacted by the legal system in their living quarters to oversee and monitor their daily activities. They can work for governmental institutions or for private prisons. Correctional Officers record the events of each day and make note of any confrontations or other issues. They confiscate contraband and determine when to discipline individuals who break protocol. Correctional Officers can also act as an escort when taking individuals to court hearings, health clinics, classrooms and recreation areas. They distribute supplies and ensure that individuals impacted by the legal system get proper care and protection from harm while in custody.

    Correctional Officer skills and qualifications

    A successful Correctional Officer candidate needs these skills and qualifications:

    • Good writing skills to create clear reports
    • Strong verbal communication skills to interact with people impacted by the legal system and coworkers
    • Leadership skills to maintain order and control
    • Ability to work 12-hour shifts or longer
    • Fluency in English
    • Ability to pass a minimum fitness test
    • Sound judgment skills to make good decisions in high-stress situations

    Correctional Officer Salary Expectations

    A Correctional Officer makes an average salary of $37,998 per year. Pay rate may depend on level of experience, education and the geographical location.

    Correctional Officer Salary Expectations

    2025-10-019.2524.1745.90HOURLY
    • Common salary: 24.17 HOURLY
    • Typical salaries range from 9.25 - 45.90 HOURLY
    • Find more information on Indeed Salaries

    *Indeed data – 2025-10-01

    Correctional Officer education and training requirements

    The minimum educational requirement for a Correctional Officer is a high school diploma or GED. A hiring preference is given to applicants with a military or law enforcement background, a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science or criminal justice or cultural diversity training.

    Correctional Officer experience requirements

    Typical experience requirements for a Correctional Officer vary. Some join an organization with a high level of experience while others have no direct experience at all. Training is often given to all new officers regardless of prior experience to ensure that a facility is operated according to the standards regulated by the State Department of Corrections.

    Job description samples for similar positions

    We hope this job description sample serves you well in creating your own job listing. If not, you may like to review the following example:

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    Three individuals are sitting at a table with a laptop, a disposable coffee cup, notebooks, and a phone visible. Two are facing each other, while the third’s back is to the camera. The setting appears to be a bright room with large windows.

    Hire your next Correctional Officer today.

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    Frequently asked questions about Correctional Officers

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