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Correction Officer Trainee Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Administrative Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

TCI is opening a new facility in Jackson, Tennessee designed to host training classes for corrections professionals. The ASA supports our Training Officer and is crucial in meeting our trainees ...

Administrative Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

TCI is opening a new facility in Jackson, Tennessee designed to host training classes for corrections professionals. The ASA supports our Training Officer and is crucial in meeting our trainees ...

TCI is opening a new facility in Jackson, Tennessee designed to host training classes for corrections professionals. The ASA supports our Training Officer and is crucial in meeting our trainees ...

Correction Officer Trainee information

See Tennessee salary details

$31.3K

$67.6K

$128K

How much do correction officer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for correction officer trainee in Tennessee is $67,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,800.00 and $82,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a correction officer trainee?

A Correction Officer Trainee is an entry-level position in the corrections field, responsible for overseeing inmates in jails, prisons, or other correctional facilities. Trainees undergo a period of training and probation where they learn the rules, procedures, and skills necessary to maintain safety and security within the facility. Duties include supervising inmate activities, conducting searches, enforcing regulations, and responding to incidents. This role is designed to prepare individuals for advancement to full Correction Officer status upon successful completion of the training period.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a correction officer trainee?

To thrive as a Correction Officer Trainee, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and knowledge of security procedures and regulations. Familiarity with security surveillance systems, incident reporting tools, and basic first aid certifications is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, stress management, and effective communication are crucial for managing inmate interactions and maintaining order. These abilities are essential to ensure the safety, security, and smooth operation of correctional facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by correction officer trainees during their initial training period?

Correction Officer Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to a highly structured and secure environment, learning to manage stressful or confrontational situations, and balancing strict adherence to protocols with the need for sound judgment. Trainees must quickly develop skills in communication, observation, and conflict de-escalation while undergoing both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Building resilience and maintaining professionalism under pressure are crucial during this period, as trainees transition into responsible and safety-focused roles within a correctional facility.

What is the difference between Correction Officer Trainee vs Correction Officer?

AspectCorrection Officer TraineeCorrection Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, basic trainingSame as trainee, plus completion of training program
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervisedFull-duty correctional facility
Job StatusTraining position, probationaryFull employee status

The Correction Officer Trainee is a probationary role where individuals undergo training and supervision, while the Correction Officer is a fully qualified staff member responsible for inmate supervision and security. The trainee stage prepares candidates for the responsibilities of a correction officer, with similar credentials and work environments.

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

The most popular types of Correction Officer jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Correction Officer Trainee jobs in Tennessee?

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

Infographic showing various Correction Officer Trainee job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,557 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Police Officer Trainee

Oak Ridge, TN

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

The City of Oak Ridge is currently beginning its recruitment activities for the position of Police Officer trainee. Please carefully read this document to learn how this process will work.
Mandatory Qualifications:
MANDATORY QUALIFICATIONS:
1.     
Be a United States citizen 2.     
Be at least 21 years of age 3.     
Possess excellent moral character for carrying out law enforcement duties 4.     
Be free of a criminal conviction record 5.     
High School diploma/equivalent. 6.
Must have at least one (1) of the following:
Two years of continuous, progressive full-time employment with an emphasis on increased responsibilities; or 
Two years’ service as a full-time, sworn law enforcement officer/corrections officer; or
Two years full-time military service with an honorable discharge; or
Associate’s Degree or 60 credit hours of college level courses. 7.     
Must become Certified Police Officer (POST) in the state of Tennessee within the timeframes specified by the City.  8.     
Out-of-state POST certifications will be considered.  Candidates must obtain Tennessee Certification within six (6) months from date of hire. 9.     
Must possess a valid State of Tennessee Driver’s license. 10     
Must successfully pass Pre-employment and Post-Offer Testing, including a background investigation, drug screen and psychological examination. Failure to pass these will result in revocation of the employment offer. 11.   
Must pass a post offer pre-employment physical and functional ability exam.  Failure to pass these will result in revocation of the employment offer. 12.
Tattoos on the face and neck are strictly prohibited.
Applicants meeting ALL of the mandatory qualifications above will be invited to participate in a Police Officer Assessment Center and will receive an invitation by email the week after the position closes. As part of the Assessment Center, participants will be required to run 1 ½ mile (timed), complete a 300 yard sprint (timed), and do 20 pushups and 20 sit-ups.
Other future selection steps for some applicants may include an oral interview, a psychological evaluation, background investigation, drug screening, and medical evaluation. Individuals interested in submitting for this position must complete an application/resume online by
5:00 p.m., Friday, September 25, 2026. 
 


Exempt : No
Type : FT Employee
Department : Police Department
Location : DEFAULT
https://www.oakridgetn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1923/Police-Officer-Trainee-PDF