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Correctional Officer Illinois Jobs in Decatur, IL

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Correctional Officer Illinois information

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$28.1K

$52.4K

$72.7K

How much do correctional officer illinois jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for correctional officer illinois in Decatur, IL is $52,385.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,600.00 and $58,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a correctional officer in Illinois?

Correctional Officers in Illinois 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. They maintain order, enforce rules, and ensure the safety and security of inmates, staff, and visitors within correctional facilities. In addition to supervising inmate activities, they perform inspections to prevent contraband, respond to emergencies, and assist in rehabilitation efforts. Correctional Officers play a critical role in the criminal justice system by helping facilitate safe and secure environments for both inmates and staff.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a correctional officer in Illinois?

To thrive as a Correctional Officer in Illinois, you need a high school diploma or GED, successful completion of state training academy, and a solid understanding of correctional procedures and regulations. Familiarity with security systems, incident reporting software, and communication devices is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, stress management, and good judgment are vital for maintaining order and building rapport with inmates and staff. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safety, upholding facility rules, and effectively handling challenging situations in a correctional environment.

What are some common challenges correctional officers in Illinois face, and how do they manage them?

Correctional Officers in Illinois often encounter challenges such as maintaining safety in potentially volatile environments, managing inmate behavior, and handling stressful situations. To manage these challenges, officers rely on thorough training in de-escalation techniques, clear communication, and teamwork with fellow staff members. Support from supervisors and ongoing professional development also help officers stay prepared and resilient in their day-to-day responsibilities.

What is the difference between Correctional Officer Illinois vs Correctional Counselor Illinois?

AspectCorrectional Officer IllinoisCorrectional Counselor Illinois
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, basic training, certificationBachelor's degree in criminal justice, psychology, or related field; certification may be required
Work EnvironmentPrison facilities, security-focusedPrison facilities, counseling and rehabilitation focus
Employer & Industry UsageState correctional facilities, law enforcement agencies

Correctional Officer Illinois primarily focuses on maintaining security and order within correctional facilities, while Correctional Counselors Illinois concentrate on rehabilitating inmates through counseling and support. Both roles are essential in the correctional system but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

How easy is it to get hired as a correctional officer?

Getting hired as a correctional officer typically involves meeting minimum age and education requirements, passing a background check, and completing a training academy. Candidates with prior law enforcement or security experience may have an advantage, and physical fitness tests are often part of the selection process.

How much do correctional officers get paid?

Correctional officers in Illinois typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and shift differentials. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced officers or those with specialized training can earn higher wages. Salaries are often complemented by benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What disqualifies you from being a correctional officer?

To become a correctional officer, candidates must pass a background check, have no felony convictions, and meet age and physical fitness requirements. Disqualifications include criminal history, drug use, dishonorable military discharge, or failure to meet training standards. Good moral character and the ability to handle stressful situations are essential for the role.

Why do so many correctional officers quit?

Correctional officers often leave the job due to high stress, safety concerns, and challenging work environments. The demanding nature of the role, including long shifts and exposure to violence, can lead to burnout and high turnover rates.

What job categories do people searching Correctional Officer Illinois jobs in Decatur, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Correctional Officer Illinois jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Correctional Officer Illinois jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Correctional Officer Illinois job openings:

Correctional Officer Illinois jobs near you
Infographic showing various Correctional Officer Illinois job openings in Decatur, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,385 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

DOC Decatur CC Correctional Officer Trainee

State of Illinois

Decatur, IL

$5.0K - $6.4K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

State Of Illinois rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 52515 
Closing Date: 06/30/2027 11:59 p.m.
​Agency: Department of Corrections - Decatur Correctional Center
Class Title: CORRECTIONAL OFFICER TRAINEE - 09676 
Skill Option: None 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $5018 a month; Full Range $5018 - $6435 a month
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Macon
Number of Vacancies: 100
Bargaining Unit Code: RC006 Corrections Employees, AFSCME
Merit Comp Code: 

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

 

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the Illinois Department of Corrections Website: Become a Correctional Officer

 

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

 

The Correctional Officer Trainee position, for a period not to exceed three months, will receive formalized and on-the-job training in security and custodial duties for IDOC. Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to be physically fit at the level required at screening prior to arrival at the Training Academy. Upon successful completion of Pre-service Security Training, IDOC cadets will participate in a formal ceremony at the academy and cadets are awarded certificates and badges and sworn to the Oath of Office.
 

DOC employs Correctional Officer Trainees at each of its 26 Correctional Centers across the state. Positions will be filled at different times for each of the following facilities:

Big Muddy River - Jefferson County

Centralia - Clinton County

Danville - Vermillion County

Decatur - Macon County

Dixon - Lee County

East Moline - Rock Island County

Graham - Montgomery County

Hill - Knox County

Illinois River - Fulton County

Jacksonville - Morgan County

Kewanee - Henry County

Lawrence - Lawrence County

Lincoln - Logan County

Logan - Logan County

Menard - Randolph County

Pinckneyville - Perry County

Pontiac - Livingston County

Robinson - Crawford County

Shawnee - Johnson County

Sheridan - LaSalle County

Southwestern IL - St Clair County

Stateville - Will County

Taylorville - Christian County

Vandalia - Fayette County

Vienna - Johnson County

Western - Brown County

For more information about the training process to become a correctional officer, visit Training Academy - About (illinois.gov)  on the Department’s website.

 

 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Essential Functions
  1. Receives eight weeks of formalized pre-service security training at the Illinois Corrections Training Academy including firearms training due to requirements mandating qualification.
  2. Receives on-the-job training under immediate supervision of a qualified correctional employee. A
    1. Assigned each work week to another correctional employee to assist in running lines, yard, dining room, housing units, facility buildings, writs, observing individuals in custody, perimeter patrol, armory, counting, shakedowns, movement, etc.
    2. Travels by using a state issued vehicle to complete assignments.
  3. Receives one week orientation at facility.
    1. Given formal training in housing unit work, report writing, out-count work, yard work, running lines, individuals in custody at this institution and their assignments, chain-of-command, security buildings, disciplinary procedures, and any other training deemed necessary.
  4. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  1. Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four years of high school.
  2. Requires elementary knowledge of resident behavior problems.
Conditions of Employment
  1. Requires completion of a pre-service security training course during trainee period.
  2. Requires successful completion of a firearms training course and learn the proper use of firearms during trainee period.
  3. Requires a valid appropriate driver’s license and the ability to travel statewide.
  4. Must be eligible under federal and state law to acquire and possess a firearm and must possess or be able to obtain and maintain a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card.
  5. Required to utilize digital technology, tools, platforms, and processes in managing and supporting various digital enhancements for greater efficiency, productivity, and digital transformation efforts within the department.
  6. Requires ability to pass the IDOC/IDJJ background check.
  7. Requires ability to pass a drug screen.  The use of unauthorized drugs by an employee, regardless of the position held, is prohibited.
  8. Applicants are required to abide by all vaccine and/or other medical standards as set out by the employer.

Work Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., 11:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m.; shift and days off will vary
Headquarter Location: 2310 E Mound Rd, Decatur, Illinois, 62526
Work County: Macon
Agency Contact: Mitzi Minton
Email: Mitzi.Minton@illinois.gov  
Posting Group: Public Safety

This position DOES NOT contain “Specialized Skills” (as that term is used in CBAs).

The Illinois Department of Corrections is a multicultural agency deeply committed to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion.  This commitment is at the forefront of our operations, hiring, policies and procedures, and training. We recognize the benefit of workplace empowerment, the importance of diversity and fully support an environment where ALL employees are treated fairly, respectfully, and have equal access to opportunities and resources necessary to thrive and contribute to the agency’s success. IDOC genuinely values the differences of individuals in our custody and is committed to ensuring a healthy living environment where they feel valued, respected, and included. Through our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), we shall establish and uphold agency policies and practices conducive to eliminating all forms of exclusion including, but not limited to, racism, ageism, ableism, sexism, discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender, and religious oppression. The IDOC team works to serve justice in Illinois and increase public safety by promoting positive change in behavior of individuals in custody, operating successful reentry programs, and reducing victimization. Employees enjoy excellent benefits, including health, vision, and dental insurance; retirement plan and deferred compensation; state holidays and other benefit time off; and pre-tax benefit programs. The department also offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities. The Illinois Department of Corrections is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

As an IDOC employee, you are entitled to a robust benefits package that includes:

Health, Life, Vision and Dental Insurance

12 weeks paid maternity/paternity leave

Pension Plan - Vesting at 10 years for Tier II

Full 20-year retirement awards free health insurance during retirement

Deferred compensation and other pre-tax benefits programs

Paid state holidays: 13 - 14 day annually

3 paid Personal Business days annually

12 paid Sick days annually (Sick days carry over year to year)

10 - 25 Paid Vacation days annually (10 days beginning at year 1 employment)

Personal, Sick and Vacation rates modified for 12-hour work schedules (As applicable)

Employee Assistance Program and/or Mental Health resources

For more information about our benefits, please follow this link:  Benefits Information

What State Of Illinois employees say

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About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

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