1

Correctional Officer 3 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WV Division of Personnel, 1900 Kanawha Blvd. E., Building 3, Suite 500, Charleston, WV 25305. Be ... Examples of Work Conduct orientation and/or on-the-job training of Correctional Officers. Read and ...

Be Seen First

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 ...

Be Seen First

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 ...

Be Seen First

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Correctional Officer 3 information

See salary details

$29K

$54K

$75K

How much do correctional officer 3 jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for correctional officer 3 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 is the highest paying job in corrections?

In corrections, the highest paying roles are typically senior management positions such as Warden or Director of Corrections, which oversee multiple facilities and departments. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and they can offer salaries significantly higher than entry-level correctional officer positions.

What is the difference between Correctional Officer 3 vs Correctional Officer 2?

AspectCorrectional Officer 3Correctional Officer 2
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; some agencies may require additional certificationsHigh school diploma or GED; basic correctional officer training
Work EnvironmentSupervises inmates, enforces rules, and manages security in correctional facilitiesPerforms security duties, monitors inmates, and enforces facility rules
Employer & Industry UsageState and federal correctional facilities, prisonsState and local correctional facilities, prisons

Correctional Officer 3 typically has more experience and may take on supervisory responsibilities compared to Correctional Officer 2. Both roles require similar credentials and work in similar environments, but Correctional Officer 3 often involves higher-level duties and oversight within correctional facilities.

What jobs can I do after being a correctional officer?

Correctional officers can transition into roles such as law enforcement officers, security managers, probation officers, or detention center supervisors. These positions often require similar skills in security, communication, and crisis management, and may require additional certifications or training. Many also move into related fields like criminal justice or private security.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Correctional Officer 3, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Correctional Officer 3, you need a thorough understanding of corrections procedures, security protocols, and conflict resolution, typically backed by experience in corrections and relevant training or certifications. Familiarity with security management systems, incident reporting software, and surveillance equipment is essential. Leadership, sound judgment, and strong interpersonal communication are crucial soft skills for managing both staff and inmates effectively. These skills ensure facility safety, uphold regulations, and foster a controlled, respectful environment within correctional institutions.

What are some common challenges Correctional Officer 3s face when supervising inmates and how can they effectively address them?

Correctional Officer 3s often encounter challenges such as managing inmate conflicts, maintaining safety and order, and balancing enforcement with rehabilitation. These officers are expected to use advanced communication, de-escalation, and problem-solving skills to resolve incidents and prevent escalation. They also play a leadership role within their teams, mentoring junior staff and coordinating with other departments to ensure institutional policies are followed. Relying on comprehensive training and strong teamwork is key to overcoming these challenges and maintaining a safe correctional environment.

Why do so many people quit corrections?

Correctional officers often leave the profession due to high stress, safety concerns, and challenging work environments. The job requires strong emotional resilience, adherence to strict protocols, and often involves irregular shifts, which can contribute to burnout and turnover.

What are Correctional Officer 3 responsibilities?

Correctional Officer 3s are senior correctional officers responsible for supervising inmates and lower-ranking officers within correctional facilities. Their duties often include overseeing daily operations, ensuring safety and security, conducting inspections, enforcing rules, and responding to incidents or emergencies. Additionally, they may be involved in training new officers and assisting in the development and implementation of facility policies. This role requires strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills. Correctional Officer 3s play a critical role in maintaining order and safety in correctional institutions.

What is a level 3 correctional officer?

A Level 3 correctional officer is a senior position within correctional facilities, often responsible for overseeing lower-level officers, managing inmate populations, and ensuring facility security. This role typically requires experience, specialized training, and sometimes additional certifications, with officers working in secure environments that may operate on shift schedules.
More about Correctional Officer 3 jobs
What states have the most Correctional Officer 3 jobs? States with the most job openings for Correctional Officer 3 jobs include:
Infographic showing various Correctional Officer 3 job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,007 per year, or $26 per hour.

$34K - $58K/yr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Nature of Work Special Hiring Rates: $55,900.416 upon hire/reallocation - Critical Vacancy Pay Facilities: Huttonsville Correctional Center and Jail, Mount Olive Correctional Complex and Jail, Western Regional Jail and Corrections Facility, Northern Correctional Facility (including Ohio County Correctional Center), Northern Regional Jail and Correctional Facility, Chick Buckbee Juvenile Center, Vicki Douglas Juvenile Center, Potomac Highlands Regional Jail and Correctional Facility, and Eastern Regional Jail and Corrections Facility (including Martinsburg Correctional Center) $50,900.304 upon hire/reallocation - Remainder of the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation facilities Under general supervision at the full performance level, serves as a lead workers of Correctional Officers. These positions are responsible for planning, assigning and reviewing the work of other Correctional Officers to ensure facility security and/or the functioning of a specialized post or unit. Distinguishing Characteristics: These positions serve as lead worker or as a key control, tool control, and armory officer and hold the assigned rank of Corporal

They may also serve as non-supervisory K-9 handlers. Click The APPLY Link To Apply Online. IMPORTANT: Your eligibility will be based on information provided in your resume or application; therefore, make sure your resume or application is detailed and complete.

You MUST complete ALL parts of the application OR upload a resume to your submission. ATTENTION: Applicant must verify post high school education by submitting an official transcript or diploma, training or licensure earned pertaining to this position by the closing date of the posting, if not previously verified. If you are claiming Veterans preference, please submit "MEMBER 4" form and/or your VA Letter.

Protecting your personal information is our highest priority. If your official transcript, training/licensure, or Veterans documentation contains your Social Security Number and/or birthdate, please redact that information before submitting it to the Division of Personnel. Please attach documents to the online application before submitting it.

Or, you may email it to: applicantservices@wv.gov or by mail to: WV Division of Personnel, 1900 Kanawha Blvd. E., Building 3, Suite 500, Charleston, WV 25305. Be sure to submit your resume or application for each position of interest

To receive an email notice anytime jobs in this or other categories are posted, you may choose to complete a Job Interest Card from the slide-out menu located at the top left of our Job Opportunities page. Examples of Work Conduct orientation and/or on-the-job training of Correctional Officers. Read and implement training materials, post orders, administrative regulations, log entries and/or memoranda.

Provide guidance and direction to subordinate officers. Monitor the performance of subordinate officers, making assignments to units as necessary. Obtain information from previous shift regarding activities occurring on that shift.

Conduct/assist with offender intake/discharge procedures. Observe offenders to detect unusual or prohibited behavior and maintain custody and control within the correctional facility. Perform and train subordinate officers to conduct offender counts and offender escort/transport security.

Perform and train subordinate officers to conduct contraband searches. Instruct offenders in performing assigned tasks. Maintain public safety and control of offenders by ensuring the enforcement of rules, regulations and state law; report violations.

Testify in internal disciplinary hearings and in court. Listen and respond appropriately to offender requests, problems and complaints. Models appropriate personal and social living skills when interacting with offenders.

Recognize and train subordinate officers to respond to potential or actual emergencies, such as but not limited to, fires, physical altercations, disturbances or escapes in a manner that is consistent with policy, procedure and state law and ensure public safety. Handles and operate security/communications equipment and/or firearms as directed in a manner that is consistent with policy, procedure and state law and ensures public safety. Conduct incident inquiries/investigations as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge of correctional security, treatment and support program operations. Knowledge of rules, regulations and state law. Skill in locating and identifying contraband.

Ability to operate a motor vehicle. Ability to train subordinate officers on the rules, regulations and state law. Ability to lead subordinate staff and offender activities and work details.

Ability to resolve offender and subordinate staff problems and conflicts. Ability to follow and issue written and oral direction within a formal chain of command. Ability to interact positively with staff, inmates and the public.

Ability to run, jump, climb stairs and physically restrain violent residents. Ability to use appropriate physical force to control offenders when necessary. Ability to safely handle and use firearms, chemical agents and mechanical restraints and to obtain certification in the use of this equipment.

Ability to conduct correct contraband searches. Ability to write routine reports and complete standard forms. Ability to read, understand and apply training and directive materials.

Ability to complete tasks in a specialized assignment. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Minimum Qualifications Training: High school diploma or the equivalent.

AND Experience: Two (2) years of full-time or equivalent part-time paid experience as a Correctional Officer, probation/parole officer, U.S. Military Service, police officer or in a criminal justice or related field. OR Substitution: Successfully completed coursework from an accredited college or university in corrections, criminal justice or related field may be substituted for the required experience at the rate of one (1) year for every thirty (30) semester hours of study

Conditions of Employment Applicants must successfully complete a psychological examination prior to appointment and as required thereafter. Applicants must successfully complete a medical examination prior to appointment and as required thereafter. Applicants must successfully complete a physical performance test prior to appointment and annually thereafter.

Applicants must successfully complete a chemical urinalysis drug-screening test prior to initial employment. All employees in this job class shall be subject to random drug testing, as well as drug testing for reasonable suspicion as set forth in agency policy. Applicant's character and suitability for employment as a Correctional Officer must be verified through an agency investigation prior to employment.

Applicant's background must be clear of felony convictions. All employees assigned to the K9 unit shall qualify with the agency issued handgun, shotgun, and basic rifle prior to graduation from the Special Operations Basic Course and at least semi-annually thereafter." Applicant's background must be clear of any activity prohibited by the Prison Rape Elimination Act. Applicants are subject to recurring background checks as may be required by law, rule, standard, or policy

Applicants will be required to work various shifts and it is understood schedules are subject to change at any time. Applicants are subject to mandatory overtime requirements and must be available for assignment to any location in the State of West Virginia. Applicants must possess a valid driver's license prior to appointment and continuously maintain such license while employed in this classification.

Applicants must maintain a working telephone in order for the agency to contact them. Applicants shall successfully complete training as may be required by policies established by the Commissioner or as may be required by law, rule or standard. Applicants shall successfully complete a Supervisor Training Course within six (6) months of reallocation.

***Your complete work history is needed to qualify you for positions. Please be as detailed as possible and list all of your past employment.*** Other Information Additional Information: Upon completion of the first year of continuous service in the position, any employee hired into the rank of the Correctional Officer series shall receive a retention incentive of $2,000. Employees in this classification shall receive an annual base building pay differential of $250 on July 1st, beginning July 1, 2024

This pay differential shall be allowed to take DCR employees' salaries above the maximum of the compensation range. If an employee is hired into a Critical Vacancy Pay Facility (CVPF) and leaves the facility, the additional pay differential of $5,000 shall be removed from their salary, unless transferring to another CVPF. Adult Facilities Prisons and Jails Central Regional Jail and Correctional Facility - Braxton County (304) 765-7904 Denmar Correctional Center and Jail - Pocahontas County (304) 653-4201 Eastern Regional Jail and Correctional Facility / Martinsburg Correctional Center and Jail - Berkeley County (304) 267-0046 Huttonsville Correctional Center and Jail/Huttonsville Work Camp - Randolph County (304) 335-2291 Lakin Correctional Center and Jail - Mason County (304) 674-2440 Mount Olive Correctional Complex and Jail/Slayton Work Camp - Fayette County (304) 442-7213 North Central Regional Jail and Correctional Facility - Doddridge County (304) 873-1384 Northern Regional Jail and Correctional Facility / Ohio County Correctional Center and Jail - Marshall/Ohio (304) 843-4067 Potomac Highlands Regional Jail and Correctional Facility - Hampshire County (304) 496-1275 Pruntytown Correctional Center and Jail - Taylor County (304) 265-6111 Saint Marys Correctional Center and Jail - Pleasants County (304) 684-5500 Salem Correctional Center and Jail - Harrison/Doddridge County (304) 782-2371 South Central Regional Jail and Correctional Facility - Kanawha County (304) 558-1336 Southern Regional Jail and Correctional Facility - Raleigh County (304) 256-6726 Southwestern Regional Jail and Correctional Facility - Logan County (304) 239-3032 Stevens Correctional Center - McDowell County (304) 436-5420 Tygart Valley Regional Jail and Correctional Facility - Randolph County (304) 637-0382 Western Regional Jail and Correctional Facility - Cabell County (304) 733-6821 Community Corrections Anthony Correctional Center - Greenbrier County (304) 536-3911 Beckley Correctional Center and Jail - Raleigh County (304) 256-6780 Charleston Correctional Center and Jail - Kanawha County (304) 340-6921 Parkersburg Correctional Center and Jail - Wood County (304) 420-2443 Juvenile Facilities and Reporting Centers Donald R.

Kuhn Juvenile Center - Boone County (304) 369-2976 Gene Spadaro Juvenile Center - Fayette County (304) 877-6890 J.M. "Chick" Buckbee Juvenile Center - Hampshire County (304) 496-1341 Kenneth "Honey" Rubenstein Juvenile Center - Tucker County (304) 259-5241 Lorrie Yeager Jr. Juvenile Center - Wood County (304) 420-4860 Robert L

Shell Juvenile Center - Cabell County (304) 948-2190 Ronald C. Mulholland Juvenile Center - Ohio County (304) 232-3441 Sam Perdue Juvenile Center - Mercer County (304) 425-9721 James H. "Tiger" Morton Juvenile Center - Kanawha County (304) 766-2616 Vicki V.

Douglas Juvenile Center - Berkeley/Jefferson County (304) 267-0164 Youth Reporting Centers Boone/Logan County Youth Reporting Center - Boone County (304) 369-8949 or (304) 369-8959 Brooke/Hancock County Youth Reporting Center - Hancock County (304) 748-1490 Cabell County Youth Reporting Center - Cabell County (304) 528-5266 or (304) 528-5267 Fayette County Youth Reporting Center - Fayette County (304) 465-2107 Greenbrier County Youth Reporting Center - Greenbrier County (304) 647-7509 or (304) 647-7511 Harrison County Youth Reporting Center - Harrison County (304) 627-2183 Jefferson County Youth Reporting Center - Jefferson County (304) 724-6317 Kanawha County Youth Reporting Center - Kanawha County (304) 558-9800 Lincoln County Youth Reporting Center - Lincoln County (304) 824-6000 Ext. 4307 Marion County Youth Reporting Center - Marion County (304) 368-4460 Mason County Youth Reporting Center - Mason County (304) 675-4835 Mercer County Youth Reporting Center - Mercer County (304) 425-4525 or (304) 425-5850 Monongalia County Youth Reporting Center - Monongalia County (681) 990-7387 Pocahontas County Youth Reporting Center - Pocahontas County (304) 456-0090 Putnam County Youth Reporting Center - Putnam County (304) 586-2055 Raleigh County Youth Reporting Center - Raleigh County (304) 256-6907 Randolph County Reporting Center - Randolph County (304) 636-9156 STARS Berkeley County Youth Reporting Center - Berkeley County (304) 260-4365 or (304) 260-4363 Wetzel/Tyler County Youth Reporting Center - Wetzel County (304) 337-2010 Wood County Youth Reporting Center - Wood County (304) 295-3024