How to Become a Correctional Officer
Correctional officer jobs continue to grow in popularity and are considered an entry-level law enforcement job for the most part. It’s not a glamorous job, but it’s probably one of the most important criminal justice careers.
Many new to law enforcement are excited to put on their new correctional officer gear. They soon learn that it takes a special person to wear a deputy sheriff or police badge. There are several things you need to know about becoming a correctional officer, and there are some minimum standards you need to meet.
Photo by Ron Lach
What Is a Correctional Officer?
Correctional officers supervise prisoners in prisons and rehabilitation facilities. Most of them work for federal, state or local governments, but some work at psychiatric hospitals and substance abuse centers.
The terms correctional officer and jailor are often used interchangeably but there is a difference. In many localities, a sheriff’s office oversees the jail. Therefore, jailors are deputy sheriffs assigned to the jail.
Jails are different from prisons in that they hold inmates awaiting trials and prisoners sentenced to two years and under.
Correctional officers usually work for state or federal prisons that house prisoners who have already been sentenced. Their job is to enforce prison rules and protocols and write reports, as well as enforce local, state and federal laws. These officers also:
- Transport prisoners to and from court and appointments
- Perform cell inspections for contraband and to see if any prisoner has tampered with equipment
- Escort prisoners to various parts of the prison, including visitation and attorney visits
- Record any unusual activity and perform routine patrols of cell blocks and cells and check exterior fences, locks, gates and more
- Manage strict prisoner schedules and prevent or intervene in assaults and fights
Minimum Requirements to Be a Correctional Officer
Requirements vary from state to state and between localities and federal facilities, but there are general minimum standards to meet.
- You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Ages vary, but, generally, you must be at least 20 years old. Some places hire as young as 18 for jailors.
- You must pass a background check, including a credit check.
- You also need a high school diploma or equivalent.
- To be a federal corrections officer, you need a bachelor’s degree or comparable experience.
- You must have a valid state driver’s license.
- You must pass a physical fitness test.
- You must be able to pass extensive training.
If you plan to work for a specific state, make sure you research the requirements you need to meet. Searching online for the state and then “department of corrections” will usually provide the information you need.
Photo by RODNAE Productions
Bachelor’s Degree vs. Experience
While most states and local jails only require a GED or high school diploma, they will give preference to people with previous correctional experience or degrees. A correctional officer is an entry-level law enforcement position that young adults often use to gain experience so they can become a police officer or deputy.
A college degree will also help you rise through the ranks at various supervisor levels. If that’s your goal, you should try to get an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
Prior military experience is also a plus since prisons and jails tend to model the military ranking structure. People with previous law enforcement or military experience may also start off at a higher salary.
Law enforcement officers who want to work in corrections may also be chosen over someone with no experience.
How to Apply to Be a Correctional Officer
Most state, local and federal prisons and jails have websites where you can print off an application or stop by in person to pick one up. Most departments require that you pass a physical and a fitness test to prove that you can handle the challenging environment and stressful situations. You may also need to take a written test as well as a psychological exam.
After you pass those steps in the process, you’ll need to pass a background check and possibly even a polygraph test. Each part of the selection process is critical because the job you are applying for is a vital part of the criminal justice system.
After you pass each part of the application process and get hired, you’ll go through corrections training. The length of the academy varies from state to state. While in the academy, you’ll receive training on firearms and defensive tactics, as well as constitutional, local, state and federal laws.
The training may be six weeks in one state or municipality, or it may be several months long. Once you pass, you’ll go through field training where you shadow an officer and receive more training on the correctional or law enforcement facility that you work for.
It’s a long process but a truly rewarding career–whether you’re using it as a stepping-stone to other positions or dedicate your entire career to correctional institutions. Check out your local jail or state prison to get more information on how to become a correctional officer.
