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Correction Officer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Florida Department of Corrections

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Security / Correctional Officer

Live Oak, FL · On-site

$48K/yr

Correctional Officers are responsible for the supervision, care, custody, control and physical restraint, when necessary, of inmates in a Correctional Institution or facility. Career opportunities ...

CoreCivic

Correctional Officer

Lake City, FL · On-site

$39K - $51K/yr

We are currently seeking a Correctional Officer who has a passion for providing the highest quality care in an institutional, secure setting. Come join a team that is dedicated to making an impact ...

CoreCivic

Correctional Officer

Lecanto, FL · On-site

$18.92/hr

We are currently seeking a Correctional Officer who has a passion for providing the highest quality care in an institutional, secure setting. Come join a team that is dedicated to making an impact ...

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All JobsCorrection Officer JobsCorrection Officer Jobs in Florida

Correction Officer information

See Florida salary details

$21.7K

$40.4K

$56K

How much do correction officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for correction officer in Florida is $40,359.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,400.00 and $44,800.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Correction Officer jobs in Florida?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Florida are hiring for Correction Officer jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Correction Officer job openings:

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

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

Correction Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Correction Officer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,359 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Security / Correctional Officer

Florida Department of Corrections

Live Oak, FL • On-site

$48K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 17 days ago

Be Seen First

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Job description

Come join the Florida Department Corrections in a rewarding career as a Correctional Officer.

No prior experience is necessary, all training is provided and paid. This is a great opportunity for those looking for a new career and a change away from security jobs, the construction industry, warehouse work and those with other similar work history.

Compensation: $48,620.00/ $22 an hour.

Correctional Officers are responsible for the supervision, care, custody, control and physical restraint, when necessary, of inmates in a Correctional Institution or facility.

Career opportunities for growth, development and promotion:

  • Correctional Officer
  • Correctional Officer Sergeant
  • Correctional Officer Lieutenant
  • Correctional Officer Captain
  • Correctional Officer Major
  • Correctional Officer Colonel
  • Assistant Warden
  • Warden

Benefits:

  • Paid vacation, sick leave and holidays
  • Comprehensive health insurance and life insurance with accidental death and dismemberment benefits
  • Supplemental Dental, Vision, Life, Disability and Hospitalization insurance
  • Tuition-Free college courses
  • 457 Tax Deferred Retirement Plan

Correctional Officers may also qualify for additional benefits:

  • "Special Risk" Retirement benefits
  • Criminal Justice Incentive Pay up to $1,560.00 annually ($130.00 per month)
  • Annual uniform and shoe allowance of $325.00
  • Annual salary additive of approximately $1,200 when employed in Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, or St. Lucie counties
  • Annual salary additive of approximately $2,500 when employed in Palm Beach, Broward, Dade or Monroe counties.

Qualifications:

  • Be at least 18 years of age (no age limit)
  • Be a United States Citizen
  • Possess a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Possess a valid driver’s license
  • Pass a drug test and physical examination
  • Pass a background investigation and fingerprinting, which includes; no felony convictions; no misdemeanor involving perjury or false statement; no misdemeanor conviction of domestic violence.
  • Must demonstrate good moral character as determined by a thorough background investigation.

Below are the next steps to becoming a Correctional Officer:

  • Step 1 - Apply in the People First system. (Click “Apply Now” at the top or bottom of this page.)
  • Step 2 - Submit a FDC Correctional Officer Supplemental Application and Willingness Questionnaire, DC2-854. (You will be emailed this form the next business day after the online application is submitted.)
  • Step 3 - FDC Recruitment Center will begin the process of conducting a Background Screening.

Note: Consideration as a correctional officer applicant begins upon completion of step 1 and 2.

Please visit http://www.fldocjobs.com/paths/co/index.html for additional information about working for the Florida Department of Corrections. You may also contact Mayo Correctional Institution at (386)294-7012 for assistance with your application process. If you experience problems applying online, please call the People First Service Center at 1-877-562-7287. Only electronic applications will be accepted.