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Correction Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Correction Officer

South Bend, IN ยท On-site

$52K - $69K/yr

Correction Officer Status: Full time Salary: Starting at $52,000 Hours: * 6/3 rotating shifts * 8-hour shifts Location: 401 W Sample Street South Bend, Indiana 46601 Job Summary: Supervises inmates ...

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Correction Officer

Niles, MI ยท On-site

$52K - $69K/yr

Correction Officer Status: Full time Salary: Starting at $52,000 Hours: * 6/3 rotating shifts * 8-hour shifts Location: 401 W Sample Street South Bend, Indiana 46601 Job Summary: Supervises inmates ...

PCI CORRECTION OFFICER

Orient, OH ยท On-site

$24.86/hr

PCI Correction Officer Organization: Rehabilitation & Correction - Pickaway Correctional Institution Agency Contact Name and Information: DRC.PCIRecruit@drc.ohio.gov/ 614-585-5315/ Crissie.Gibson@drc ...

CORRECTION OFFICER TRAINEE

NY ยท On-site

$26.68/hr

CORRECTION OFFICER Opening Date: 06/10/2026 Closing Date: 7/31/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Distinguishing Features of the Class This position exists in the Sheriff's Department and involves responsibility ...

PCI CORRECTION OFFICER

Orient, OH ยท On-site

$24.86/hr

PCI Correction Officer Organization: Rehabilitation & Correction - Pickaway Correctional Institution Agency Contact Name and Information: DRC.PCIRecruit@drc.ohio.gov/ 614-585-5315/Crissie.Gibson@drc ...

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Correction Officer information

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$29K

$54K

$75K

How much do correction officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for correction officer in the United States is $54,007.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $60,000.00 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.

Why do so many correctional officers quit?

Correction officers often leave the job due to high stress, safety concerns, and challenging work environments. The demanding nature of the role, irregular hours, and exposure to violence can contribute to burnout and job dissatisfaction, leading to high turnover rates.

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 easy to get hired as a correctional officer?

Getting hired as a correctional officer can be competitive and typically requires passing a background check, physical fitness test, and sometimes a written exam. Candidates often need to complete training at a correctional academy and meet age and education requirements, making the process somewhat rigorous but achievable with proper preparation.

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 Correction Officers?

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 is the highest paying job in corrections?

The highest paying positions in corrections are typically supervisory roles such as Corrections Director or Warden, which oversee prison operations and staff. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced education, and leadership skills, and they can offer salaries significantly higher than entry-level correction officer positions.

How can I be a correction officer?

To become a correction officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete a training academy that covers topics like security procedures and legal regulations. Some jurisdictions require passing written exams and physical fitness tests, and applicants must often be at least 18 or 21 years old. Relevant skills include good communication, decision-making, and the ability to handle stressful situations.
More about Correction Officer jobs
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What states have the most Correction Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Correction Officer jobs include:

LORCI CORRECTION OFFICER

Ohio Department of Taxation

Grafton, OH โ€ข On-site

$24.86/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Are You Ready?

We are thrilled to see that you are interested in beginning your career with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction! ย Without a doubt, this will be the most rewarding and meaningful work youโ€™ll ever find with a work family that is second to none!

What You'll Do:

The Correction Officer responsibilities include:ย 

Maintaining control of the institution to provide for safety and security of the facility, inmates, staff, and general public by enforcing rules/regulations/policies and proceduresย 
Supervise and direct inmate activity in assigned areas of the facility/institutionย 
Assuring assigned area is clean, safe, and secureย 
Monitoring and operating security controls, equipment, and computersย 
Operation of automotive vehicles in perimeter security and the transportation of inmatesย 
Conducting inmate counts, security rounds, and searchesย 
Completes required reports and serves on committeesย 
Prevents escapes or incidents which threaten securityย 
When necessary, uses physical force, unarmed self-defense, firearms, or other force to detain or secure inmates
ย 

Newly hired Correction Officer will be hired at step 1 $24.16 and will move to step 2 $24.86 after 6 months employment. ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย ย 

Earn an additional .60 per hour working 2nd or 3rd shift

High school diploma or G.E.D.; must have valid driver's license for positions assigned to transportation section &/or requires commercial driver's license to drive vehicles qualifying as commercial. Applicants for positions in Ohio Department Of Rehabilitation & Correction must also successfully pass correction officer assessment or have successfully completed assessment within past 24 months; or applicants must be current employees with Ohio Department Of Rehabilitation & Correction who have previously been certified in position of correction officer. Probationary period is 365 days.
Job Skills:ย 

Corrections, Communications, Criminology/Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, and Security, Ethics and Values, Listening, Observation, Situational Awareness, and Teamwork