ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Correction Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Somerset County

Correction Officer

Somerset, PA · On-site

$37K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Corrections Officer (FLSA Status: NON-EXEMPT ) REPORTS TO : LieutenantCO's / Chief CO's (in absence ofLieutenantCO's) POSITION OVERVIEW : The Corrections Officer position involves providing a safe ...

Ulster County

Correction Officer

Kingston, NY · On-site

$28.34/hr

CORRECTION OFFICER CORRECTION OFFICER DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: An employee in this class is responsible for guarding inmates and for ensuring that order, discipline and security are ...

Ohio Department of Aging

FMC CORRECTION OFFICER

Columbus, OH · On-site

$25.61/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

The Correction Officer responsibilities include: Maintaining control of the institution to provide for safety and security of the facility, inmates, staff, and general public by enforcing rules ...

Ohio Department of Aging

AOCI CORRECTION OFFICER

Lima, OH · On-site

$25.61/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

The Correction Officer responsibilities include: Maintaining control of the institution to provide for safety and security of the facility, inmates, staff, and general public by enforcing rules ...

Otsego County

Correction Officer

Cooperstown, NY · On-site

$50K - $62K/yr

Correctional Facility EOE DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS : The work involves responsibility ... May perform duties of communications officer and related work, including but not limited to use of ...

Ohio Department of Aging

NCI CORRECTION OFFICER

Caldwell, OH · On-site

$25.61/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

The Correction Officer responsibilities include: Maintaining control of the institution to provide for safety and security of the facility, inmates, staff, and general public by enforcing rules ...

Ohio Department of Aging

MCI CORRECTION OFFICER

Marion, OH · On-site

$25.61/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

The Correction Officer responsibilities include: Maintaining control of the institution to provide for safety and security of the facility, inmates, staff, and general public by enforcing rules ...

St. Joseph County Police Department

Be Seen First

Correction Officer

South Bend, IN · On-site

$52K - $69K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Correction Officer Status: Full time Salary: Starting at $52,000 Hours: * 6/3 rotating shifts * 8-hour shifts Location: 401 W Sample Street South Bend, Indiana 46601 Job Summary: Supervises inmates ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCorrection Officer Jobs

Correction Officer information

See salary details

$29K

$54K

$75K

How much do correction officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for correction officer in the United States is $54,007.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges correction officers face in managing inmate behavior, and how are they typically addressed?

Correction Officers often encounter challenges such as defusing conflicts between inmates, preventing contraband smuggling, and responding to unpredictable situations. These challenges are typically addressed by following strict protocols, participating in regular training on de-escalation techniques, and working closely with fellow officers to maintain a safe environment. Teamwork, vigilance, and effective communication are essential skills that help Correction Officers manage these responsibilities and ensure the security of the facility.

What is the difference between Correction Officer vs Prison Guard?

AspectCorrection OfficerPrison Guard
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, training certificationHigh school diploma or GED, basic training
Work EnvironmentPrisons, detention centers, correctional facilitiesPrisons, detention centers, correctional facilities
Employer & IndustryState and federal correctional agenciesState and federal correctional agencies
Job RoleSupervise inmates, enforce rules, maintain securitySupervise inmates, enforce rules, maintain security

Correction Officers and Prison Guards often perform similar duties within correctional facilities, supervising inmates and ensuring security. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, and both roles require comparable credentials and work environments. The main difference is often regional terminology, with 'Correction Officer' being more formal and widely used in official contexts.

What do you need to do to be a correction officer?

To become a correction officer, candidates typically need to meet age and education requirements, pass a background check and drug test, and complete a training academy that covers security procedures, legal issues, and emergency response. Some positions may require a valid driver's license and physical fitness tests. Certification or licensing is often required depending on the jurisdiction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a correction officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Correction Officer, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong observational skills, and training in law enforcement or corrections procedures. Familiarity with security systems, surveillance technology, and incident reporting software is typically required. Excellent communication, conflict resolution, and resilience under pressure are valued soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety, managing inmate behavior, and ensuring a secure correctional environment.

What is a correction officer?

Correction Officers are law enforcement professionals responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in jail or prison. Their primary duties include maintaining security and order within correctional facilities, supervising inmate activities, and ensuring the safety of staff, inmates, and visitors. Correction Officers also enforce rules, conduct searches for contraband, and respond to emergencies. They play a critical role in the rehabilitation and reintegration of incarcerated individuals. The job often requires strong communication, observation skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

How many years does it take to be a correction officer?

Becoming a correction officer typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by a training academy that can last from a few weeks to several months. Most agencies do not specify a set number of years of experience but require applicants to meet minimum education and training requirements before employment.

Is becoming a correction officer hard?

Becoming a correction officer involves meeting specific requirements such as background checks, physical fitness tests, and training programs. The job can be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to handle stressful situations. Success depends on preparation, understanding of procedures, and maintaining professionalism throughout the process.
More about Correction Officer jobs

What cities are hiring for Correction Officer jobs?

Cities with the most Correction Officer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Correction Officer jobs?

The most popular types of Correction Officer jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Correction Officer jobs?

The top employers for Correction Officer jobs are:

What states have the most Correction Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Correction Officer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Correction Officer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Correction Officer jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Correction Officer jobs?

For Correction Officer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Correction Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Correction Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,007 per year, or $26 per hour.

Correction Officer

Middlesex Sheriff's Office

Billerica, MA • On-site

$69K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

The Middlesex Sheriff's Office (MSO) is seeking qualified professionals to work as a Correction Officers at the Middlesex Jail and House of Correction in Billerica, MA. This is a full-time, non-exempt position covered under a collective bargaining agreement.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The essential job duties and responsibilities of Correction Officers includes, but is not limited to, the following:
  • Maintaining custodial care and control of inmates/detainees by escorting or transporting them under restraint;
  • Patrolling facilities; making periodic rounds, head counts and security checks of buildings, grounds and inmate quarters;
  • Observing conduct and behavior of inmates/detainees, noting significant behavioral patterns, to prevent disturbances, violence, escapes or other crises such as suicides; notes and investigates suspicious inmate/detainee behavior, including the possibility of contraband, by searching individuals, vehicles, mail, packages, and inmate/detainee quarters;
  • Guarding and directing inmates during work assignments to maintain order and security in a correctional institution.
  • Developing working relationships with inmates/detainees by referring individuals to appropriate supportive services (e.g., medical, psychiatric, vocational, etc.) as needed to aid in rehabilitation and foster an atmosphere of cooperation between inmates/detainees and staff;
  • Preparing reports relative to fires, disturbances, accidents and security breaches;
  • Preparing evaluation reports on inmates/detainees;
  • Accounting for inmate whereabouts at all times, making entries into unit log of daily activities and reviewing daily activity reports;
  • Maintaining cleanliness and safety of work area;
  • Enforcing regulations pertaining to meals, recreation, shakedowns, showers, visits, key control, and inmate movement;
  • Performing related operational duties such as screening visitors, operating two-way radios, carrying and operating firearms, serving food to inmate;
  • Performing other related work as required.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Correction Officers work in a correctional facility on a 24/7 basis and are required to work on varied shifts (7/3; 3/11; 11/7), weekends, nights, holiday and are subject to being forced to work over eight (8) hours depending on operational needs. Correction Officers may encounter verbal and physical abuse from offenders; interact with people who are under physical and/or emotional stress; stand and walk for prolonged periods of time; work alone in an isolated area; required to lift and carry heavy objects and; restrain inmates/detainees in accordance with policy. Correction Officers may also work under exposure to adverse weather conditions.
Individuals selected for the position of Correction Officer shall be cognizant of the confidential and sensitive nature of working in a law enforcement agency and must comply with all institutional rules regarding safety and security.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Twenty-one [21] years of age;
  • Graduated from high school or possess a GED equivalency certificate;
  • Active valid driver's license, good communication skills, and the ability to pass a required criminal background check, including a drug screening.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
Salary: Starting annual base salary is $69,522.12 plus additional incentives, bonuses and employment benefits , including a $2,500 sign on bonus.
Interested candidates for the position of Correction Officer must register for the required written examination by submitting a written request to [email protected]. or call 781.960.2800.
For further information regarding the Correction Officer position, please visit www.middlesexsheriff.org and review the 'Employment' tab.

Apply