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Correction Officer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Correctional Officer

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Correctional Officer - State of Iowa Department of Corrections Are you ready for more than just a job. How about a career that challenges you, shapes lives, and contributes to the safety and security ...

Corrections Officer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$54K - $77K/yr

Job Summary Under general supervision, the Corrections Officer ensures the safety, security, and orderly operation of the inmates and daily routines in the Scott County Jail. -Starting Wage is $26.07 ...

Job Summary Under general supervision, the Corrections Officer ensures the safety, security, and orderly operation of the inmates and daily routines in the Scott County Jail. -Starting Wage is $26.07 ...

Corrections Officer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$54K - $77K/yr

No 13 If you answered yes, to the previous question, please explain. 14 Why do you want to be a correction officer, and what is your career goals? 15 What is the most important quality a correction ...

Correctional Officer

Clarinda, IA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

  • Retirement

Join us at Clarinda Correctional Facility as a Correctional Officer. At the full performance level, maintains security and manages offenders consistent with their programming and behavioral ...

No 13 If you answered yes, to the previous question, please explain. 14 Why do you want to be a correction officer, and what is your career goals? 15 What is the most important quality a correction ...

Correctional Officer

Rockwell City, IA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

CORRECTIONAL OFFICER JOB DUTIES: As part of a multi-disciplinary team, observes incarcerated individual behavior/interaction with staff, other incarcerated individuals, and visitors; communicates and ...

Correctional Officer

Fort Dodge, IA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

CORRECTIONAL OFFICER JOB DUTIES: As part of a multi-disciplinary team, observes incarcerated individual behavior/interaction with staff, other incarcerated individuals, and visitors; communicates and ...

Correctional Officer

Anamosa, IA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

A Position in the Iowa Department of Correction is more than a job. It's a calling. Corrections ... Join us at the Anamosa State Penitentiary as a Correctional Officer. Patrols facilities and makes ...

Correctional Officer

Coralville, IA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

IMCC serves as the reception and classification center for all those entering the adult male institutional corrections system, which is estimated to be 400-500 new commitments every month that are ...

Correctional Officer

Newton, IA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

... Newton Correctional Facility, we offer a wide range of career opportunities in various departments; i.e., Security, Treatment, Medical, Administrative, Business, Records, Maintenance/Trades ...

Jailer

Boone, IA · On-site

$23.84 - $28.05/hr

Correctional Officers work 12-hour rotating shifts. The Boone County Correctional Officers are considered essential personnel. Shifts are 12-hours and include nights and weekends. Requirements:

RN Corrections weekly

Newton, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Correctional RN The Correctional RN works in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, correctional officers, and administrators to ensure the well-being of the incarcerated population. The ...

RN Corrections- Newton

Newton, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Correctional RN The Correctional RN works in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, correctional officers, and administrators to ensure the well-being of the incarcerated population. The ...

RN Corrections weekly

Anamosa, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Correctional RN The Correctional RN works in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, correctional officers, and administrators to ensure the well-being of the incarcerated population. The ...

RN Corrections 58 hourly

Newton, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Correctional RN The Correctional RN works in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, correctional officers, and administrators to ensure the well-being of the incarcerated population. The ...

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Showing results 1-20

Correction Officer information

See Iowa salary details

$27.2K

$50.7K

$70.4K

How much do correction officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for correction officer in Iowa is $50,727.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,200.00 and $56,400.00 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Correction Officer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Correction Officer job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Correction Officer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,727 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Correctional Officer

State of Iowa

Fort Madison, IA • On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


State Of Iowa rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description Correctional Officer - State of Iowa Department of Corrections Are you ready for more than just a job. How about a career that challenges you, shapes lives, and contributes to the safety and security of our communities. The State of Iowa Department of Corrections is on the lookout for dedicated and passionate individuals to join our team as Correctional Officers.

This is more than a career; it's a calling to make a positive impact on the lives of those incarcerated while safeguarding the integrity of our correctional facilities. Position Overview: As a Correctional Officer, you'll be the backbone of the correctional system, balancing the crucial mission of security with the opportunity to help individuals reform and reintegrate into society. This role is not only challenging but immensely rewarding, offering the chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in your care.

Training and Compensation: Embark on a journey where new Correctional Officers earn a full-time salary during training, receiving comprehensive instruction to equip them for success. The State of Iowa offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in both the private and public sectors, ensuring you're well taken care of. Responsibilities: As a Correctional Officer, you will: Observe and document incarcerated individual behavior to ensure effective security.

Utilize behavioral techniques to facilitate behavior change and foster problem-solving skills. Conduct security checks, patrols, and inspections to maintain safe and secure correctional facilities. Instruct incarcerated individuals in rules, policies, procedures, and expectations for successful adaptation to life within an institution.

Interact with the general public, visitors, and victims with professionalism and empathy. Maintain logs, prepare reports, and enter information into the DOC electronic record system. Skills Required Include: Social Perceptiveness - Be aware of others' reactions and understand why they react as they do.

Active Listening - Give full attention to what others are saying, ask questions, and seek to understand points being made. Monitoring - Assess performance to make improvements or take corrective action. Coordination - Adjust actions in relation to others' actions.

Judgment and Decision Making - Consider costs and benefits to choose the most appropriate actions. Critical Thinking - Use logic and reasoning to identify strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions. Complex Problem Solving - Identify complex problems and evaluate options to implement solutions.

Speaking - Convey information effectively. As a State of Iowa Employee, you will also receive a robust benefits package including: Paid Time Off: Enjoy vacation, paid holidays, and sick leave with no limits on sick leave accrual. Great Benefits: Excellent Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Package.

Retirement Plan: IPERS Retirement package and an option for a deferred compensation plan. Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and dependent care). Life Insurance: Free Life Insurance.

Support: Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs. Join Us: If you're ready for a career that's both challenging and fulfilling, apply today to become a Correctional Officer with the State of Iowa Department of Corrections. Make a difference in the lives of others and contribute to the safety and well-being of our communities.

Your journey begins here. Note: The Iowa Department of Corrections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

E-Verify and Right to Work The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization.

For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov. Minimum Qualification Requirements Graduation from high school, GED, or equivalency. For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description

Additional Qualification Requirements All applicants must be able to successfully pass the following: Psychological tests A background investigation check. A post-offer health screen administered by an institutional physician. A urinalysis screen for drugs.

All new employee training during the probationary period, including local orientation, new employee orientation, and emergency preparedness training. Designated positions in this job class require applicants to obtain a Commercial Driver's License and endorsements within a period of time as determined by the appointing authority at the time of hire.


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State of Iowa logo

About State of Iowa

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Iowa is not a company but the governmental structure of the U.S. state of Iowa, stationed in the capital city, Des Moines. The official website, iowa.gov, is a platform dedicated to providing information and services related to the state's governance. As a governmental establishment, the State of Iowa's 'industry' primarily involves social governance, policy-making, and public administration, overseeing sectors like education, health, transportation, agriculture, and other public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1939