1

Correctional Officers Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Correctional Officer

Norman, OK ยท On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Correctional Officers are also assigned responsibilities involving routine duties as a first level trained security officer in the security, control and custody of inmates in a state adult ...

Correctional Officer

Oklahoma City, OK ยท On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Correctional Officers are also assigned responsibilities involving routine duties as a first level trained security officer in the security, control and custody of inmates in a state adult ...

Correctional Officer

Pawhuska, OK ยท On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Correctional Officers are also assigned responsibilities involving routine duties as a first level trained security officer in the security, control and custody of inmates in a state adult ...

Correctional Officer

Mcalester, OK ยท On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Correctional Officers are also assigned responsibilities involving routine duties as a first level trained security officer in the security, control and custody of inmates in a state adult ...

Correctional Officer

Perry, OK ยท On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Correctional Officers are also assigned responsibilities involving routine duties as a first level trained security officer in the security, control and custody of inmates in a state adult ...

Correctional Officer

El Reno, OK ยท On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Correctional Officers are also assigned responsibilities involving routine duties as a first level trained security officer in the security, control and custody of inmates in a state adult ...

Correctional Officer

Cherokee, OK ยท On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Correctional Officers are also assigned responsibilities involving routine duties as a first level trained security officer in the security, control and custody of inmates in a state adult ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Correctional Officers information

See salary details

$29K

$54K

$75K

How much do correctional officers jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for correctional officers 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 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, solid knowledge of security procedures, and physical fitness, often supplemented by completion of a training academy. Familiarity with surveillance systems, incident report software, and basic self-defense techniques is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and sound judgment are crucial for managing inmates and diffusing tense situations. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safety, maintaining order, and upholding institutional standards in correctional facilities.

What jobs can a correctional officer do?

Correctional officers primarily work in prisons or jails, supervising inmates and maintaining security. They can also transition into roles such as probation officers, parole officers, or security personnel, often requiring additional training or certification. These positions involve skills in conflict resolution, observation, and report writing.

Why do so many correctional officers quit?

Correctional officers often leave the job due to high stress, exposure to violence, and challenging working conditions. The demanding environment, irregular shifts, and emotional toll can contribute to burnout and job dissatisfaction, leading to high turnover rates.

What are some common challenges Correctional Officers face when working in correctional facilities?

Correctional Officers often encounter challenges such as managing inmate behavior, maintaining safety and security, and handling high-stress situations. They must remain vigilant and composed while enforcing rules and responding to conflicts or emergencies. Effective communication and teamwork with fellow officers and facility staff are essential, as is the ability to adapt to a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable work environment. These challenges are balanced by comprehensive training, support from colleagues, and opportunities for career advancement within the corrections system.

Is it easy to get hired in corrections?

Getting hired as a correctional officer can be competitive and typically requires meeting minimum age and education requirements, passing background checks, and completing training programs. Candidates with prior law enforcement or security experience and good physical fitness often have better chances of employment.

What is the highest pay for a correctional officer?

The highest pay for correctional officers varies by location and experience, with some earning over $70,000 annually in high-paying states or facilities. Advanced certifications, supervisory roles, and working in specialized or high-security institutions can increase earning potential.

What are Correctional Officers?

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 and security within correctional facilities, supervising inmate activities, and enforcing rules and regulations. They also perform inspections, conduct searches for contraband, and respond to emergencies. Correctional Officers play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of both inmates and staff while supporting rehabilitation efforts. The job can be challenging, requiring strong communication, observation, and conflict resolution skills.

What is the difference between Correctional Officers vs Police Officers?

AspectCorrectional OfficersPolice Officers
Work EnvironmentPrison or jail facilitiesPublic streets, neighborhoods, and crime scenes
Primary ResponsibilitiesSupervise inmates, maintain security inside correctional facilitiesEnforce laws, respond to emergencies, patrol communities
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, correctional officer trainingHigh school diploma or GED, police academy training
Employer & Industry UsageCorrectional institutions, detention centersLaw enforcement agencies, police departments

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 enforce laws outside. Their training, responsibilities, and work settings differ, making each role unique within the criminal justice system.

More about Correctional Officers jobs
What cities are hiring for Correctional Officers jobs? Cities with the most Correctional Officers job openings:
What states have the most Correctional Officers jobs? States with the most job openings for Correctional Officers jobs include:
Infographic showing various Correctional Officers job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,007 per year, or $26 per hour.
Correctional Officer

Correctional Officer

State of Oklahoma

Norman, OK โ€ข On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Posting Title
Correctional Officer
Agency
131 DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
Supervisory Organization
DOC Empl Develop/Academy
Job Posting End Date
Refer to the date listed at the top of this posting, if available. Continuous if date is blank.
Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the day prior to the posting end date above.
Estimated Appointment End Date (Continuous if Blank)
Full/Part-Time
Full time
Job Type
Regular
Compensation
Correctional Officer: $44,680.90
Corporal: $46,924.80
Job Description
Applicants must be willing to attend an 8-week live-in academy in Oklahoma City from Sunday 6:00 PM through Thursday 6:00 PM and return home on the weekends.
Applicants will work at their selected facility with a Field Training Officer until the academy begins.
Academy Start Date: August 3, 2026
Lodging and meals are provided.
Basic Purpose
Positions in this job family are assigned responsibilities related to maintaining the security, control and custody of inmates in a state adult correctional facility.
Typical Functions
  • Provides security and supervision to inmates in a variety of situations and activities; maintain security of an assigned area or post.
  • Provides security and supervision over inmate work crews; escorts inmates to work sites; inventories and controls all equipment, weapons, tools and keys.
  • Patrols yards, grounds, cell houses, corridors, dormitories and work areas on an assigned shift; observes activities and movements of inmates; manages inmate conduct, work and discipline.
  • Maintains order and discipline in programs and during meals and recreation periods; inspects living areas, facilities and work locations for unauthorized objects or materials; makes reports on incidents.
  • Operates manually or electronically controlled security equipment maintaining controlled movement of inmates, staff and the public.
  • Conducts inmate counts; performs searches of inmates and living quarters for contraband; enforces institutional rules and regulations.
  • Prepares written documentation and reports concerning inmate behavior, status and movement.
  • Participates on escape and apprehension teams; responds to riots and fires.

Level Descriptors
Correctional Officer:
This is the basic level where employees are assigned as correctional officer cadets and receive formal and on-the-job training in security and custody duties and various policies and procedures relating to control and management of inmates. Correctional Officers are also assigned responsibilities involving routine duties as a first level trained security officer in the security, control and custody of inmates in a state adult correctional center after completion of all statutory training requirements and job orientation. This will include the supervision of inmates in a wide variety of situations and activities, which may include supervising inmate work crews at work sites as well as patrolling yards, cell houses, grounds and other areas to control the movements, conduct, work and discipline of inmates. Employees at this level are responsible for interpreting and executing post orders.
Corporal:
This is the career level where employees are assigned responsibilities at the full performance level as a correctional security corporal, for providing security and control of inmates. Assignments are related to maintaining discipline and security among inmates, both within and outside the facility. Incumbents interpret and execute post orders.
Education and Experience
Correctional Officer:
Education and Experience requirements at this level consist of the statutory requirements contained in Title 57 O.S., Section 510.A.2: "a. The minimum age for service shall be twenty (20) years of age. The Director shall have the authority to establish the maximum age for correctional officers entering service and b. possession of thirty (30) semester hours from an accredited college or university; or possession of a high school diploma acquired from an accredited high school or GED equivalent testing program and graduation from a training course conducted by or approved by the Department and certified by the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training either prior to employment or during the first six (6) months of employment.
Note: Successful completion of the GED test is based upon standards established by the Oklahoma Department of Education.
Corporal
Those identified for Correctional Officer plus 12 months of experience in correctional or security work for a governmental agency or private corrections agency.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities required at this level include knowledge of the fundamentals of English usage; of basic math; of reporting writing; of the use and care of firearms; of proper restraint methods and techniques; of self-defense methods; of the methods and objectives of discipline required for inmates under restraint; and of the psychology of inmate behavior. Ability is required to evaluate situations and adopt effective courses of action; to exercise alertness and be able to act quickly and effectively in an emergency situation; to follow oral and written instructions; to gather and organize facts and complete clear, concise reports; to communicate effectively; to establish and maintain effective working relationships; to maintain proficiency with firearms; and to assess and manage conflicts within the inmate population.
Special Requirements
Applicants/employees in this job family shall be subject to the following additional requirements:
Satisfactory completion of minimum testing or professional evaluation through Human Capital Management to determine the fitness of the individual to serve in the position with written evaluations submitted to the Department of Corrections.
Satisfactory completion of pre-employment and annual physical examination that is consistent with and indicative of the conditions required to perform the job based upon the guidelines established by the Department of Corrections.
Applicants must possess a valid driver's license at the time of appointment in order to perform necessary travel.
Applicants will be subject to drug testing.
Applicants must be willing and able to work any assigned shift or day of the week, and additional shifts as required.
NOTE: Employees in this job classification may be designated as peace officers by the Director pursuant to 57 O.S. ยง 510 and required to meet the training and screening requirements conducted by the Department and certified by the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training to include any psychological or physical testing required for eligibility to complete a basic police course or be certified as a peace officer. Training will include physical conditioning, self-defense tactics, and receipt of an application of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray. (70 O.S. ยง 3311).
No person who has been found guilty of or pled guilty or nolo contendere to any offense requiring registration under the Sex Offenders Registration Act is eligible for employment as a peace officer. (57 O.S. ยง 589 (C)).
No person who has been convicted of a crime of moral turpitude who has not received a full pardon from the proper agency is eligible for employment as a peace officer. (70 O.S. ยง 3311).
No person who has been convicted of a nonviolent felony and who has not received a full pardon from the proper authority, or who has been convicted of any other felony offense, is eligible for employment in this job classification. (21 O.S. ยง 1283(B)).
No person who has been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, who has not been pardoned for, or had the conviction expunged or set aside, or is subject to a court order that restrains the person from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner or the partners' child or engaging in other conduct that would place an intimate partner or the partners' child in reasonable fear of bodily injury and includes a finding that the person is a credible threat; or who has been dishonorably discharged from any branch of the armed services is eligible for employment in this job classification. (18 U.S.C. ยง 922).
The Department of Corrections has determined that some positions in this job family are safety sensitive as defined by 63 O.S. ยง 427.8.
Additional Job Description
Joseph Harp Correctional Center
This is not a remote position.
Equal Opportunity Employment
The State of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of genetic information, race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, or disability.
Current active State of Oklahoma employees must apply for open positions internally through the Workday Jobs Hub.
If you are needing any extra assistance or have any questions relating to a job you have applied for, please click the link below and find the agency for which you applied for additional information:
Agency Contact