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Correction Officer Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Summit County

Reserve Corrections Officer

Park City, UT · On-site

$28.76 - $48.13/hr

Summit County, located in Utah, is currently accepting applications for Reserve Corrections Officers to perform law enforcement duties related to the security, safety, order, operation and ...

Weber County

Deputy Sheriff Corrections

Ogden, UT · On-site

$31/hr

Education: High school diploma and current Special Functions Officer and Basic Corrections Officer Certification (or Certifiable as such) from Utah Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)

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Correction Officer information

See Utah salary details

$26.4K

$49.2K

$68.3K

How much do correction officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for correction officer in Utah is $49,167.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,900.00 and $54,600.00 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 Utah?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Utah are hiring for Correction Officer jobs?

Cities in Utah with the most Correction Officer job openings:

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

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

Correction Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Correction Officer job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,167 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Correctional Officer

Utah Division of Human Resource Management

Salt Lake City, UT

$44K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

With a career in Law Enforcement as a Correctional Officer, you can earn a total possible compensation package valued up to 92,298.90 in the first year. The Utah Department of Corrections is seeking individuals who can balance compassion with accountability while supervising offenders in our care and custody at the Utah State Correctional Facility and various correctional centers in Salt Lake, Utah and Weber counties, correctional center job locations are dependent on availability. (This recruitment is not hiring for the Central Utah Correctional Facility - Gunnison). 

  • With a two year commitment as a Correctional Officer at UDC you will receive a 6000 Signing Bonus.
    -Utah Department of Corrections Bonus Parameters: If hired by the Utah Department of Corrections (UDC) as a correctional officer, you will receive a 3,000 hiring bonus upon successful completion of the correctional officer training academy. On the 1 year anniversary of your hire date, you will receive a second 3,000 hiring bonus, for a total of 6,000. Acceptance of one or both of these bonuses requires you to commit to remain employed within the area of UDC that hired you throughout your 18-month probationary period.
  • Paid training through POST certification.
  • An amazing benefits package including health, dental, vision, tuition reimbursement, and retirement plans.
  • No prior experience required.
  • Maintain safety and security of facilities as well as may career path opportunities in various areas like training, transportation, programming, CIRT, investigations, etc.
  • The department offers a contract buyout of up to 20,000 to qualified applicants that are currently working for another law enforcement agency in the state of Utah. Contact the recruitment team for more info at https://corrections.utah.gov/about-us/join-our-team/

UDC now offers 1 for 1 years of service credit on our certified pay plan. The entry pay rate will increase for each prior year of Corrections or Law Enforcement experience. Please see our current pay plan rates below:

Job Title Step 1   2   3   4  5  6  7  8  9  10 Correctional Officer  31.52 32.39  33.28  34.18  35.14 36.10  37.08  38.12 39.17  40.24
Initial testing consists of a physical fitness test. You will receive additional information about testing date, time and location from the recruitment team after you apply.
The minimum requirements for the physical fitness test are as follows:
- Vertical Jump of 14.5" or higher
- Push-ups, 14 continuous (military style)
- Plank, 30 seconds
- 1.5 Mile Run within 16 minutes 11 second or less

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