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Correctional Officer Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

United Security, Inc.

Armed Detention Officer

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

Armed Detention Officer Are you looking to be part of a company where teamwork is encouraged? A ... Transport prisoners from correctional institutes to courthouse & medical facilities. * Completes ...

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Correctional Officer information

See Delaware salary details

$29K

$54.1K

$75.1K

How much do correctional officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for correctional officer in Delaware is $54,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $60,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a correctional officer?

Correctional 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 order, enforcing rules, preventing disturbances, and ensuring the safety and security of inmates and staff within correctional facilities. They also inspect facilities for security breaches, conduct searches, and respond to emergencies as needed. Correctional Officers play a crucial role in supporting the rehabilitation and safe reintegration of inmates into society.

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

To thrive as a Correctional Officer, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and knowledge of criminal justice protocols. Familiarity with security systems, surveillance equipment, and incident reporting software is often required, along with completion of relevant training programs. Strong interpersonal skills, resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set exceptional officers apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, order, and effective communication within correctional facilities.

What does a correctional officer do?

Correctional officers mainly work in prisons. Their duties include processing new prisoners, ensuring the security of the facility, and keeping the incidents of violence among inmates under control. They also conduct periodic searches for weapons and contraband.

What challenges do correctional officers face and how are they managed?

Correctional officers often encounter challenges such as maintaining safety in high-stress environments, managing confrontational situations, and ensuring compliance with facility rules. They address these by relying on thorough training in de-escalation techniques, clear communication, and teamwork with other officers and staff. Regular briefings, support from supervisors, and adherence to strict protocols help officers manage incidents effectively and maintain a secure environment for everyone in the facility.

What is the difference between Correctional Officer vs Police Officer?

AspectCorrectional OfficerPolice Officer
Work EnvironmentPrison or jail facilitiesPublic streets, neighborhoods, and crime scenes
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; some states require correctional officer trainingHigh school diploma or GED; police academy training
Employer & IndustryCorrectional facilities, state and federal prisonsLaw enforcement agencies, city or county police departments
Job FocusSupervising inmates, maintaining security within correctional facilitiesPreventing and investigating crimes, enforcing laws in the community

Correctional Officers and Police Officers both serve in law enforcement but work in different environments. Correctional Officers focus on supervising inmates within correctional facilities, while Police Officers patrol communities and respond to incidents. Although their roles differ, they often require similar credentials and training, making them common points of comparison for those interested in law enforcement careers.

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

Getting hired as a correctional officer typically requires meeting minimum age and education requirements, passing background checks, and completing training or certification programs. Job openings can be competitive, and candidates with prior law enforcement or security experience may have an advantage.

How long does it take to become a correctional officer?

Becoming a correctional officer typically requires completing a training academy, which in California usually lasts around 160 hours over several weeks. Candidates must also pass background checks, physical fitness tests, and sometimes written exams; the overall process from application to employment can take several months.

What are the requirements to be a correctional officer?

To become a correctional officer, applicants typically must be at least 18 years old, pass a background check and drug screening, complete a training academy, and hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require additional certifications or physical fitness tests, and candidates must often pass a written exam and psychological evaluation.
More about Correctional Officer jobs

What are popular job titles related to Correctional Officer jobs in Delaware?

For Correctional Officer jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Correctional Officer jobs in Delaware look for?

The top searched job categories for Correctional Officer jobs in Delaware are:

What cities in Delaware are hiring for Correctional Officer jobs?

Cities in Delaware with the most Correctional Officer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Correctional Officer jobs in DE?

For Correctional Officer jobs in DE, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Correctional Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Correctional Officer job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,054 per year, or $26 per hour.

Correctional Officer

State of Delaware - Department of Corrections - DOC

Dover, DE • On-site

$59K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

$5,000 SIGN-ON BONUS!

Become a Delaware Correctional Officer

Protect. Lead. Serve. Build a Career That Matters.

Are you ready for a career with purpose—not just a paycheck?

The Delaware Department of Correction is seeking motivated, dependable individuals who are ready to make a difference every day. As a Correctional Officer, you'll help maintain the safety and security of our facilities while positively influencing the lives of those in custody and protecting the communities we serve.

Whether you're just starting your career or looking for a profession with outstanding benefits, paid training, and unlimited advancement opportunities, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

Why Choose the Delaware Department of Correction?

  • Competitive Pay - Earn a competitive salary with opportunities for overtime and shift differentials.
  • $5,000 Sign-On Bonus* - Qualified new hires may be eligible for a $5,000 hiring incentive.
  • Paid Academy Training - No prior correctional experience? No problem. We'll provide the professional training and support you need to succeed.
  • Outstanding State Benefits - Enjoy an exceptional State of Delaware benefits package featuring comprehensive health insurance, a State pension, generous paid leave, tuition assistance, retirement savings options, employee wellness resources, and opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.

Essential Functions

  • Maintains control of inmates while escorting individuals or groups within the prison.
  • Keeps accurate head counts of inmates in the assigned security post.
  • Conducts periodic shakedowns of inmates and searches inmates, visitors, employees, cell blocks and/or other structures for such prohibited items as tools, weapons or other contraband.
  • Operates manual and electronic locking systems.
  • Enforces all rules, regulations and procedures affecting inmate discipline, security and safety.
  • Observes inmate activities to detect unusual or prohibited behavior which may be a threat to the security of the facility or the safety of the inmate, other inmates, employees or visitors.
  • Ensures inmates conform to proper standards of care as required for the living areas and personal hygiene.
  • Maintains the custody of inmates during transport to other institutions and in the community for court appearances or a variety of appointments.
  • Prepares and maintains a daily log and routine reports of activities and incidents on the assigned shift using an automated information system to enter, update, retrieve and report on data.
  • May be required to train and care for K-9 including feeding, grooming and kennel maintenance.
  • May enter institution as backup in riot control and shakedown activities. May participate in the pursuit of escapees.

Job Requirements

  1. At least 18 years of age.
  2. Possession of a High School Diploma or equivalent.
  3. Possession of a valid Driver’s License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

Company Description

The Department is the second largest Executive branch agency in the State, and the largest law enforcement agency in the State with over 2,500 employees. The Department is comprised of the Office of the Commissioner, Bureau of Administrative Services, Bureau of Correctional Healthcare Services, Bureau of Prisons and Bureau of Community Corrections.

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