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Correctional Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Correctional Instructor information

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How much do correctional instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for correctional instructor in the United States is $21.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a correctional instructor?

Correctional Instructors are professionals who teach educational or vocational courses to inmates in correctional facilities. Their goal is to provide inmates with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their chances of successful reintegration into society after release. Correctional Instructors may teach subjects such as literacy, GED preparation, life skills, or trades like carpentry and culinary arts. They play a crucial role in rehabilitation by helping reduce recidivism through education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a correctional instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Correctional Instructor, you need a background in education or vocational training, subject matter expertise, and often a relevant teaching certification or degree. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), curriculum development tools, and record-keeping software is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to motivate and manage diverse learners in a secure environment are essential soft skills. These skills and qualifications ensure effective instruction, support rehabilitation, and maintain safety and order within correctional facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by correctional instructors, and how can they be addressed?

Correctional Instructors often encounter challenges such as engaging learners from diverse educational backgrounds, maintaining classroom discipline, and adapting teaching methods to a secure environment. Building rapport and trust with inmates, while enforcing clear boundaries, is essential for a productive learning atmosphere. Successful instructors use flexibility, patience, and strong communication skills to address these challenges, often collaborating closely with security staff and counselors to ensure both educational and safety goals are met.

What is the difference between Correctional Instructor vs Correctional Officer?

AspectCorrectional InstructorCorrectional Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; some roles may require certifications in security or trainingHigh school diploma or GED; basic security training
Work EnvironmentClassroom or training facility within correctional institutionsSecurity posts within correctional facilities, patrolling, supervising inmates
Employer & Industry UsageCorrectional facilities, prisons, detention centersPrisons, jails, detention centers
Common Search & ComparisonCorrectional Instructor vs Correctional Officer

Correctional Instructors focus on training and educating inmates or staff within correctional facilities, often working in classrooms or training areas. Correctional Officers primarily supervise inmates, maintain security, and enforce rules within correctional institutions. While both roles operate within the correctional system and may require similar basic credentials, their daily duties and work environments differ significantly.

More about Correctional Instructor jobs

What states have the most Correctional Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Correctional Instructor jobs include:

Infographic showing various Correctional Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,102 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

NCDAC (North Carolina Department of Adult Corrections) Basic and Recertification Instructor

South Piedmont Community College

Monroe, NC โ€ข On-site

Full-time, Contractor

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Job Title
NCDAC (North Carolina Department of Adult Corrections) Basic and Recertification Instructor
Job Description
The NCDAC Basic and Recertification Instructor position is a full-time, 12-month position located on the Lockhart-Taylor Center Campus in Wadesboro, NC. Under the direction of the NCDAC Correctional Coordinator, the NCDAC Basic and Recertification Instructor is responsible for the delivery of approved trainings specific to NCDAC staff including Community Supervision, Corrections, Office of Staff Development, and Juvenile Justice. This position will typically require teaching assignments during normal business hours; however, there may be the need for evening and weekend hours both on and off campus. Online instruction may also be required.
Comprehensive Benefits Package to include health insurance with the NC State Health Plan for Teachers and State Employees, retirement benefits through the NC Retirement System, Paid Time Off, and a supplemental cafeteria plan.
Essential Duties Summary
โ€ข Teach assigned In-Service and Basic Correctional Officer curriculum.
โ€ข Use formal and informal assessment techniques to enhance learning.
โ€ข Maintain updated course materials and resources.
โ€ข Use emerging technologies and alternative delivery methods appropriately, including online delivery, blended/hybrid course options, content software, web-enhancements, etc.
โ€ข Manage and maintain registration and reporting documentation as required for FTE generation.
โ€ข Maintain current licensure, certification, or other professional credentials required for the position.
โ€ข Participate in program review, as appropriate.
โ€ข Serve as a positive role model for students and colleagues, demonstrating strong character and civic responsibility.
โ€ข Participate in professional development and training opportunities, as appropriate.
โ€ข Actively participate in College committees and activities.
โ€ข Demonstrate a high level of professionalism, innovation, collaboration, and institutional commitment in all actions.
โ€ข Based on the needs of the College, accept teaching assignments at one or more of the following: L.L. Polk campus (Polkton), Old Charlotte Highway campus (Monroe), in community locations (Anson and Union Counties), or in a correctional setting (Anson County).
โ€ข Perform other duties as assigned by the NCDAC Correctional Coordinator, Director of Correctional Education, Associate Vice President, and Vice President of Career and Workforce Development.
โ€ข Work cooperatively with all directors and staff.
Required Qualifications
โ€ข Five (5) years of experience conducting Department of Adult Corrections (DAC) training.
โ€ข Ten (10) years of experience working in the field of corrections.
โ€ข Current certifications in the following:
1. General Instructor from the NC Criminal Justice Education & Training Standards Commission
2. Department of Corrections Control Restraints & Defensive Techniques (CRDT) Instructor
3. NCDAC Expandable Baton
4. DOC Firearms Instructor to include updated GLOCK handgun block of instruction
โ€ข Current American Heart Association Basic Life Support or HSI CPR Provider Certified.
โ€ข Ability to relate to students and staff of diverse cultural, social or educational backgrounds.
Preferred Qualifications
โ€ข Associate degree or higher in Criminal Justice or related field.
โ€ข Experience conducting training in the correctional field.
โ€ข Certified NC Criminal Justice Education & Training Standards Commission and Dept. of Correction Instructor in one or more of the following:
1. Cell Extraction
2. OC Aerosol
3. AHA CPR Instructor
4. HSI CPR/ First Aid Instructor
5. Staff and Offender Relations
6. Security Risk Groups
7. Unlawful Workplace Harassment
8. Prescription for Hope and Perseverance (Mental Health)
9. Wellness
10. Situational Awareness
11. TASER 10
Physical Demands
Special Conditions Eligibility Summary
Eeo Statement Summary
South Piedmont Community College provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees based on job related criteria without reference to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected classification. Applicants are requested to complete questions at the end of the online application process that are strictly voluntary. Answers to these questions will not be provided to the hiring manager, selection committee, or any other employees of South Piedmont other than the Human Resources Office. The Human Resources Office uses this information to maintain accurate confidential records on the composition of each applicant pool. If you require accommodation due to a disability in order to complete the application process, please make your request to the Human Resources Office.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
JP00777FY17-18
Open Date
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants