1

Corrections Officers Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Corrections Officers Academy. • Must successfully pass department firearms training/qualification. We require a professional appearance for this role. While tattoos are generally acceptable ...

Juvenile Corrections Officer

Yakima, WA · On-site

$23.03 - $24.44/hr

Recognizes juvenile efforts to manipulate corrections officers. Counsels juveniles to help resolve problems. Prepares and submits all written documentation and reports concerning juvenile population ...

Corrections Officer

Yakima, WA · On-site

$5K - $6K/mo

The City of Yakima is offering new Corrections Officers a hiring incentive of $10,000!! $5,000 be paid on their first paycheck following the first full month of employment and the additional $5,000 ...

$47K/yr

Corrections officers contribute to the public safety mission by providing for the safety and security of the public, staff, and inmates by ensuring effective and safe custody and control along with ...

Corrections Officer

Waupaca, WI · On-site

$27.22 - $32.02/hr

Corrections Officers are additionally responsible for the control and monitoring of all visual and sound devices utilized to ensure officer's safety, inmate's welfare, and building security. This ...

Recognizes juvenile efforts to manipulate corrections officers. Counsels juveniles to help resolve problems. Prepares and submits all written documentation and reports concerning juvenile population ...

Recognizes juvenile efforts to manipulate corrections officers. Counsels juveniles to help resolve problems. Prepares and submits all written documentation and reports concerning juvenile population ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Corrections Officers information

See salary details

$29K

$54K

$75K

How much do corrections officers jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for corrections 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 Corrections Officers?

Corrections 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 duties include maintaining order and security within correctional facilities, supervising inmate activities, conducting searches for contraband, and ensuring the safety of both inmates and staff. Corrections Officers also play a crucial role in preventing escapes, resolving conflicts, and sometimes assisting with rehabilitation programs. The job requires strong communication skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to respond effectively in stressful situations.

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

To thrive as a Corrections Officer, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, knowledge of legal procedures, and often completion of academy training. Familiarity with security systems, surveillance equipment, and incident reporting software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, stress management, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help officers manage inmates and resolve conflicts effectively. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, enforcing rules, and fostering a secure correctional environment.

How much do correctional officers pay?

Correctional officers typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $50,000, depending on location, experience, and the facility. Salaries can range from approximately $30,000 for entry-level positions to over $70,000 for experienced officers or those in high-cost areas. Benefits often include health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime opportunities.

Is it easy to get hired in corrections?

Getting hired as a corrections officer can be competitive and typically requires passing a background check, physical fitness test, and sometimes a written exam. Candidates often need relevant training or certification, and job openings depend on agency needs and budget, making the hiring process variable in difficulty.

What is the difference between Corrections Officers vs Jailers?

AspectCorrections OfficersJailers
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, basic corrections trainingHigh school diploma or GED, similar corrections training
Work EnvironmentPrisons, detention centers, correctional facilitiesJails, local detention centers, short-term facilities
Employer & IndustryState and federal correctional agenciesCounty or city jails, local law enforcement agencies
Job DutiesSupervise inmates, enforce rules, maintain securitySupervise inmates, process intake and release, maintain security

Corrections Officers and Jailers perform similar roles in supervising inmates and maintaining security within correctional facilities. While their work environments and employers differ—Corrections Officers often work in prisons, whereas Jailers are typically employed in local jails—their required credentials and job duties are quite comparable. Both roles are essential for the safety and security of detention facilities and often overlap in responsibilities.

What is the highest paying job in corrections?

The highest paying jobs in corrections are typically supervisory roles such as Corrections Directors or Wardens, who oversee prison operations and staff. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and they can earn salaries significantly higher than entry-level correctional officer roles.

What are some common challenges Corrections Officers face when working with inmates, and how are they typically addressed?

Corrections Officers often encounter challenges such as managing inmate conflicts, maintaining safety and security, and coping with high-stress situations. These challenges are typically addressed through comprehensive training in de-escalation techniques, clear protocols for incident reporting, and strong teamwork among staff members. Officers also participate in regular briefings and may have access to counseling services to support their well-being. Effective communication and vigilance are essential to successfully navigate the demands of the role.

What does it take to be a correctional officer?

To become a correctional officer, candidates typically need to be at least 18 or 21 years old, pass a background check, complete a training academy, and obtain any required certifications. Physical fitness, good communication skills, and the ability to handle stressful situations are also important for the role.
More about Corrections Officers jobs
What cities are hiring for Corrections Officers jobs? Cities with the most Corrections Officers job openings:
What states have the most Corrections Officers jobs? States with the most job openings for Corrections Officers jobs include:
Infographic showing various Corrections Officers job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,007 per year, or $26 per hour.
Corrections Officer: Coffeewood Correctional Center

Corrections Officer: Coffeewood Correctional Center

State of Virginia

Culpeper, VA • On-site

$47K/yr

Other

Posted yesterday


State Of Virginia rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 50 rated states


Job description

Corrections Officer: Coffeewood Correctional Center

Apply now Job no: 5097306
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Culpeper, Virginia
Categories: Public Safety

Title: Corrections Officer: Coffeewood Correctional Center

State Role Title: Security Officer III

Hiring Range: $47,721.00

Pay Band: 3

Agency: Dept of Corr - Central Admin

Location: Coffeewood Correctional Center

Agency Website: www.vadoc.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

*** $3,000 bonus is payable to eligible new hires!***
Corrections officers contribute to the public safety mission by providing for the safety and security of the public, staff, and inmates by ensuring effective and safe custody and control along with compliance with policy and procedure. Successfully accomplished through the use of evidence-based practices and principles that enhance effective communication strategies and role modeling as part of collaborative multi-disciplinary teams addressing inmate needs. Officers provide security over adult inmates at the institution and while in transport; supervise the daily activities of inmates while observing and recording their behavior and movement to ensure their safe and secure confinement.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or a GED equivalent. Valid Driver's License. Demonstrated ability to read and comprehend workplace policies and procedures and to prepare workplace reports and documentation. Ability to lawfully possess a firearm in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Ability to successfully complete all pre-employment requirements which include medical screening, background check and drug testing to include screening for marijuana use.

Additional Considerations

Stable employment history, military or related criminal justice experience. Prefer individuals at least 21 years old (a waiver may be provided by the Unit Head for individuals 18-20 years old). Bi-lingual and Multi-lingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

If selected as a finalist with the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC), candidates can expect the following:
Background Investigation Requirements: All applicants are subject to a background investigation. Investigations may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI); local agency checks; employment verification; verification of education (relevant to employment); credit checks; and other checks based on the position.
Drug Testing Requirements: Applicants applying to a designated safety sensitive position are subject to a pre-employment drug screen. Marijuana use is prohibited for positions that require possession of a firearm or a Commercial Driver's License in the performance of official duties such as Corrections Officers, Probation Officers, Tractor Trailer Drivers and others.
Application Requirements: Application and/or resume for this position are only accepted electronically through the Commonwealth of Virginia's Electronic Recruitment System. All applications should be submitted by 11:55pm on the closing date for the position. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand delivered applications and/or resumes will not be accepted. The decision to interview an applicant is based solely on the information received for this position from the electronic application and/or resume.
Layoff Preferences: Applicants who possess an Interagency Placement Screening Form (Yellow Form) or a Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Form) as issued under the Department of Human Resources Management (DHRM) Policy 1.30 Layoff (Commonwealth of VA employees only) MUST attach these forms when submitting their state application and/or resume.
VADOC is an EEO employer and is committed to supporting workforce diversity, equitable opportunities and inclusivity. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.
VADOC values our Veterans and encourages all to apply and receive preference in the hiring process. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other nation service alumni are also encouraged to apply. Click here for more information: Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program - Virginia Department of Veterans Services

Contact Information

Name: Human Resources

Phone: 540-829-6483

Email: Emailed applications are not accepted.

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Advertised: 12 Jan 2026 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close:

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend

Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What State Of Virginia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom