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How much do department corrections jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for department corrections in the United States is $57,518.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by correctional officers working in a Department of Corrections facility?

Correctional officers often encounter challenges such as maintaining safety and security within the facility, managing confrontational situations, and balancing firmness with empathy when interacting with inmates. The role requires strong communication skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure, as officers must enforce rules while also supporting rehabilitation efforts. Working in shifts, including nights and weekends, is common, and teamwork with other staff members is essential to ensure a safe environment for both personnel and inmates.

What are Department of Corrections officers?

Department of Corrections officers, also known as correctional officers, are professionals responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in a jail, prison, or other correctional facility. Their main duties include maintaining order and security, enforcing rules and regulations, preventing disturbances, and ensuring the safety of both staff and inmates. They may also escort inmates, conduct searches, and monitor facility conditions. Correctional officers play a crucial role in the criminal justice system by helping to rehabilitate offenders and protect the public.

What is the difference between Department Corrections vs Probation Officer?

AspectDepartment CorrectionsProbation Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; some roles require correctional officer certificationBachelor's degree in criminal justice, social work, or related field
Work EnvironmentPrison facilities, detention centers, correctional institutionsCommunity settings, courts, probation offices
Employer & IndustryState or federal correctional agenciesCourts, probation departments, criminal justice agencies

Department Corrections roles focus on managing incarcerated individuals within correctional facilities, ensuring security and order. Probation Officers supervise offenders in community settings, monitoring compliance with court-ordered conditions. While both roles serve the criminal justice system, Department Corrections staff work primarily inside prisons, whereas Probation Officers work in the community to support rehabilitation and reduce recidivism.

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

To thrive as a Department of Corrections Officer, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic law enforcement knowledge, and training in correctional procedures. Familiarity with security systems, incident reporting software, and communication devices is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help officers manage inmate behavior and maintain safety. These skills are vital for enforcing rules, ensuring security, and fostering a safe environment for both staff and inmates.
What cities are hiring for Department Corrections jobs? Cities with the most Department Corrections job openings:
What states have the most Department Corrections jobs? States with the most job openings for Department Corrections jobs include:
Department Corrections jobs near you
Infographic showing various Department Corrections job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,518 per year, or $27.7 per hour.
Correctional Officer 1 Female ONLY Recruitment

Correctional Officer 1 Female ONLY Recruitment

Alaska Department of Corrections

Anchorage, AK • On-site

$47K - $61K/yr

Full-time

PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The Department of Corrections, Division of Institutions, is recruiting for multiple Female Correctional Officer 1 positions for the Hiland Mountain Correctional Center (HMCC) located in Eagle River, Alaska. **Due to the needs of the Institution this Recruitment is for Female Applicants Only** Correctional Officers earn up to 16 days of paid leave for the first two years of employment, increasing after two (2) years based on years of service, as well as also receiving 11 paid holidays annually. This recruitment is for an 84-hour work week, with a schedule of "week on/week off" that alternates "day/night shifts." What You Will Be Doing: Embark on a career in Corrections with numerous training and promotion paths.

As a correctional officer, you will play a vital role in reforming those in custody and helping them positively contribute to society. Start a rewarding career with growth prospects and make a meaningful impact in our community. We look forward to welcoming you!

New Correctional Officers undergo 12-14 months of structured field training and attend a seven-week Correctional Officer Academy. After completing training and receiving the APSC Correctional Officer Certificate, you will be promoted to Correctional Officer 2. Our Mission, Values, and Culture: The mission of the Alaska Department of Corrections is to promote public safety.

Our division provides secure confinement, access to reformative programs and offender management planning that promotes successful community reentry. Benefits of Joining Our Team: At Hiland Mountain Correctional Center, you'll join a dedicated team working together to achieve daily, weekly, monthly, and long-term goals for the benefit of the facility and department. Correctional Officers receive up to 16 days of paid leave in their first two years of employment, which increases based on years of service.

Additionally, they receive 12 paid holidays annually. This recruitment is for an 84-hour work week, with a "week on/week off" schedule that alternates between day and night shifts. The Working Environment You Can Expect: Hiland Mountain Correctional Center is Alaska's designated facility for female prisoners.

Located in Eagle River, it offers a peaceful and private setting with stunning views of the Chugach Mountains. The facility includes 11 buildings, covering approximately 120,000 square feet of space, and is situated on 62.7 acres of land. It has a capacity for around 400 prisoners.

Who We Are Looking For: To be successful in the position, a candidate will need the following core competencies: Ability to follow oral and written instructions, knowledge of business software, and effectively communicate required information. Ability to learn and apply techniques of self-defense, firearms, appropriate force to protect oneself / others and act quickly in emergencies, including diffusing conflicts by utilizing sound judgment. Ability to read and comprehend statutes, regulations, and procedures, apply them to specific situations, and explain procedures and requirements to the public, others, and the inmate population.

To truly excel in this position, a candidate will have or develop the following competencies: Assist with maintaining order and discipline, operate security control room, learn and apply techniques of handling unruly and violent prisoners, using the minimum force necessary, in resolving situations, and routine security checks and inspections. Assist in creating and maintaining an atmosphere conducive to the rehabilitation of prisoners.

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