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Correction Officer Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

State of Delaware

Correctional Lieutenant

Smyrna, DE · On-site

$78K/yr

Employees in a Correctional Officer (CO) series position will be eligible to retire under the provisions of HB363 if, at the time of retirement, they have completed twenty-five (25) years of pension ...

New

United Security, Inc.

Armed Detention Officer

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

Armed Detention Officer Are you looking to be part of a company where teamwork is encouraged? A ... Transport prisoners from correctional institutes to courthouse & medical facilities. * Completes ...

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Correction Officer information

See Delaware salary details

$29K

$54.1K

$75.1K

How much do correction officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for correction officer in Delaware is $54,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $60,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

Is it hard to become a correction officer?

Becoming a correction officer typically requires meeting minimum age and education requirements, passing a background check, and completing training at a correctional academy. The process can be competitive and may involve physical fitness tests and written exams, depending on the jurisdiction. Success often depends on meeting these standards and demonstrating good conduct and communication skills.

Why do so many correction officers quit?

Correction officers often leave the job due to high stress, exposure to violence, and demanding schedules that can lead to burnout. The physically and emotionally challenging environment, along with limited advancement opportunities, also contributes to high turnover rates in the profession.

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

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

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

The top searched job categories for Correction Officer jobs in Delaware are:

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

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

Correction Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Correction Officer job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,054 per year, or $26 per hour.

Correctional Officer

Dover, DE • On-site

State of Delaware - Department of Corrections - DOC
See more jobs at State of Delaware - Department of Corrections - DOCexternal

$59K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

$5,000 SIGN-ON BONUS!

Become a Delaware Correctional Officer

Protect. Lead. Serve. Build a Career That Matters.

Are you ready for a career with purpose—not just a paycheck?

The Delaware Department of Correction is seeking motivated, dependable individuals who are ready to make a difference every day. As a Correctional Officer, you'll help maintain the safety and security of our facilities while positively influencing the lives of those in custody and protecting the communities we serve.

Whether you're just starting your career or looking for a profession with outstanding benefits, paid training, and unlimited advancement opportunities, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

Why Choose the Delaware Department of Correction?

  • Competitive Pay - Earn a competitive salary with opportunities for overtime and shift differentials.
  • $5,000 Sign-On Bonus* - Qualified new hires may be eligible for a $5,000 hiring incentive.
  • Paid Academy Training - No prior correctional experience? No problem. We'll provide the professional training and support you need to succeed.
  • Outstanding State Benefits - Enjoy an exceptional State of Delaware benefits package featuring comprehensive health insurance, a State pension, generous paid leave, tuition assistance, retirement savings options, employee wellness resources, and opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.

Essential Functions

  • Maintains control of inmates while escorting individuals or groups within the prison.
  • Keeps accurate head counts of inmates in the assigned security post.
  • Conducts periodic shakedowns of inmates and searches inmates, visitors, employees, cell blocks and/or other structures for such prohibited items as tools, weapons or other contraband.
  • Operates manual and electronic locking systems.
  • Enforces all rules, regulations and procedures affecting inmate discipline, security and safety.
  • Observes inmate activities to detect unusual or prohibited behavior which may be a threat to the security of the facility or the safety of the inmate, other inmates, employees or visitors.
  • Ensures inmates conform to proper standards of care as required for the living areas and personal hygiene.
  • Maintains the custody of inmates during transport to other institutions and in the community for court appearances or a variety of appointments.
  • Prepares and maintains a daily log and routine reports of activities and incidents on the assigned shift using an automated information system to enter, update, retrieve and report on data.
  • May be required to train and care for K-9 including feeding, grooming and kennel maintenance.
  • May enter institution as backup in riot control and shakedown activities. May participate in the pursuit of escapees.

Job Requirements

  1. At least 18 years of age.
  2. Possession of a High School Diploma or equivalent.
  3. Possession of a valid Driver’s License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

Company Description

The Department is the second largest Executive branch agency in the State, and the largest law enforcement agency in the State with over 2,500 employees. The Department is comprised of the Office of the Commissioner, Bureau of Administrative Services, Bureau of Correctional Healthcare Services, Bureau of Prisons and Bureau of Community Corrections.

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