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Entry Level Correction Officer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Correction Officer information

See Alabama salary details

$28.6K

$57.1K

$90.2K

How much do entry level correction officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level correction officer in Alabama is $57,071.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,200.00 and $67,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level correction officer?

Entry level correction 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 duties include maintaining order and security within the facility, enforcing rules and regulations, supervising inmate activities, and conducting inspections to prevent contraband. Entry level officers often undergo specialized training and work under the supervision of more experienced staff as they learn the responsibilities of the job. This role can be challenging but is essential for ensuring the safety and security of both inmates and staff.

What is the difference between Entry Level Correction Officer vs Correctional Officer?

AspectEntry Level Correction OfficerCorrectional Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often required
Work EnvironmentPrison or jail facilities, security-focusedPrison or jail facilities, security-focused
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position in correctional facilitiesMid-level position, often with more experience or responsibilities

Entry Level Correction Officers are typically new to the correctional field, performing basic security and supervision duties. Correctional Officers may have more experience or responsibilities but share similar work environments and credential requirements. Both roles are essential in maintaining safety within correctional facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level correction officer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Correction Officer, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic knowledge of correctional facility procedures, and the ability to pass physical and background checks. Familiarity with security systems, surveillance equipment, and incident reporting software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, stress management, and sound judgment help officers effectively interact with inmates and maintain order. These skills are vital for ensuring safety, compliance, and a secure environment within correctional facilities.

What are some common challenges entry level correction officers face during their first year on the job?

Entry level correction officers often encounter challenges such as adjusting to the structured environment, managing interactions with inmates, and handling the stress that comes with ensuring safety and security. Building strong communication and conflict resolution skills is essential, as is learning to follow strict protocols and procedures. New officers may also face shift work and long hours, but support from experienced colleagues and ongoing training can help ease the transition.

What are the most commonly searched types of Correction Officer jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Correction Officer jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Correction Officer jobs in Alabama?

For Entry Level Correction Officer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Correction Officer jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Correction Officer jobs in Alabama are:

Entry Level Correction Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Correction Officer job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,071 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Correctional Officer Trainee -Elmore

Alabama Department of Corrections

Deatsville, AL • On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Alabama Department Of Corrections rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 43 rated prisons

Job description

The Alabama Department of Corrections is hiring Correctional Officer Trainees in Elmore, Alabama. Start at $27.94/hour with full benefits. Apply now and serve your community with top pay, and purpose that matters

Salary Information

$55,375.20 - $70,718.40 Annually

$26.62 - $34.00 Hourly

PLUS earn up to almost 30% more within the first 2 years!

General Overview

The Correctional Officer Trainee is an entry-level, full-time position with the Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC). Employees serve a critical role in the overall success of the ADOC by performing correctional work in state prisons by overseeing the custody, rehabilitation, and reentry of inmates. Correctional officers participate in the custody, transport, detention, treatment, and rehabilitation of adult inmates in correctional institutions following ADOC administrative regulations and job specific training. Correctional officers must be alert, decisive, demonstrate good judgment, and serve the citizens of the State of Alabama honor and integrity.

Responsibilities of a Correctional Officer

(Any one position may not include all the duties listed, nor do the examples cover all the duties which may be performed.)

  • Stands watch in halls or in wall towers to control movement of inmates.
  • Supervises groups of inmates on work details in kitchens, shops, laundries, recreation areas; instructs inmates performing semi-skilled and unskilled manual assignments; checks inmates in and out of the institution.
  • Inspects quarters for safety and sanitary conditions and for presence of contraband, searches inmates and visitors for contraband.
  • Maintains constant alert and reports unusual conditions and disturbances; inspects doors, fences, and other security equipment.
  • Makes regular and unscheduled inmate counts and constant checks on those supervised.
  • Completes reports and keeps records of work progress, behavior of inmates, infractions of rules of conduct, and unusual occurrences.
  • Drives transfer vehicle and inspects and keeps screens and other safety equipment in perfect condition.
  • Explains to inmates rules, procedures, and services available at correctional institutions; assists inmates regarding personal problems, educational and vocational opportunities, and work assignments through day-to-day contacts.
  • Observes inmate behavior and adjustment to a correctional environment; submits evaluation reports.
  • Instructs inmates in personal hygiene, discipline, and proper etiquette.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Applicants must possess a high school diploma or GED certificate (copy will be required during hiring process)
  • Applicants must be 19 years of age or older
  • Applicants must provide one of the following during the hiring process:
    1. Valid certification of having passed the Basic Ability Test (BAT) for Law Enforcement Officers (also called ACT WorkKeys). - OR -
    2. Proof of possession of an Associate's degree or higher from an accredited college or university (copy of diploma and/or transcript will be required during hiring process).

NOTE: Applicants previously certified by APOSTC are not required to take the BAT, provided they have been active within the last ten (10) years.

Special Requirements
  • Applicants must be a U.S. Citizen at the time of appointment.
  • Applicants must possess a valid driver license from their State of residency.
  • Applicants must meet APOSTC requirements, designated agency training, and other specialized training during the probationary period. Includes the successful completion of a 10-week training program at the ADOC Training Center located in Selma, Alabama.
  • Applicants must participate in a Pre-Employment Physical Assessment. Specific details of assessment can be accessed on the ADOC website.
  • Applicants must successfully complete a background investigation which includes a fingerprint-based criminal history background check and drug screening. Applicants with a felony and/or domestic violence conviction are not eligible for employment.
  • If an applicant is a veteran of the armed forces of the United States, their discharge must be under honorable conditions.
  • Applicants are subject to assignment anywhere within the State.
Benefits

Subsistence Pay

$12/day physically worked (estimated to be a $2,500 - $3,000 annual benefit)

Retirement

  • Defined Benefit Retirement Plan (employer/employee based)
  • Optional Deferred Compensation Programs

Low Cost Health Insurance

  • Blue Cross/Blue Shield Health (Single/Family Coverage)
  • Optional Dental (Single/Family Coverage)
  • Optional Health and Supplemental Insurance Coverage
  • Optional Cancer Policy
  • Discounted Vision Care Program
  • Flexible Benefits Program (pre-tax dollars for qualified Medical Expense and Dependent Care)

Paid Time Off

  • 12 Holidays per year
  • 1 Personal leave day per year or Mardi Gras Holiday (Baldwin and Mobile counties only)
  • 13 Sick days per year (accrued time off)
  • 13 to 29 Annual leave days per year (accrued time off)
  • 168 Hours of military leave per year
    Learn more about jobs at the ADOC.

What Alabama Department Of Corrections employees say

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