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Entry Level Correction Officer Jobs in California

Written Examination - Interested candidates who meet the position qualifications will take the entry-level Adult Correction Officer BSCC Selection Examination. The examination will be administered by ...

Custody Officer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

Written Examination - Interested candidates who meet the position qualifications will take the entry-level Adult Correction Officer BSCC Selection Examination. The examination will be administered by ...

Recruit Police Officer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $158K/yr

The Position: This position is an entry level, non-sworn position in the Police Department ... Applicants with correction afforded by soft contact lenses are exempt from the minimum uncorrected ...

... adult and juvenile community corrections and juvenile residential corrections; conducts ... This is the entry-level classification in the Deputy Probation Officer series. Initially under ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Correction Officer information

See California salary details

$31.1K

$62.1K

$98.2K

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

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level correction officer in California is $62,140.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $73,500.00 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Correction Officer jobs in California?

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Correction Officer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Correction Officer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Correction Officer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,140 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

$74K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform duties related to processing and booking of arrestees, including receiving, fingerprinting, photographing, and classifying prisoners.

  • Maintain the safety, security, and health of prisoners by performing security, safety, and health checks, and managing custody verification forms.

  • Manage the care of prisoners by preparing meals, ordering and maintaining inventory of food and supplies, and handling bail monies and prisoner releases.


Job description

Description SALARY $74,256 - $99,504 annually There is currently one (1) full-time vacancy. JOB SUMMARY: Under general supervision, performs a variety of duties related to the processing and booking of arrestees; processing related data; maintaining a variety of records and caring for those in custody at the City's jail facility. CLASS CHARACTERISTICS: Reports directly to the Custody Supervisor.

Does not exercise supervisory responsibilities over other jail staff. For more information about the Costa Mesa Police Department, click here. APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS: Applications must be completed and submitted on-line.

This recruitment will remain open until filled and may close without prior notice. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, therefore prompt application is encouraged. The first application review date has passed, applications submitted after the first review date will be screened as needed.

Candidates are requested to provide specific information regarding their education and experience as it relates to the position by completing all fields of the application. Applications may be rejected if incomplete. Do not include text or attached resumes, as they will not be accepted or reviewed in the application process.

Based upon the information presented on the application, a limited number of candidates who possess qualifications most pertinent to the position will be invited to participate in the selection process. The selection process may include, but is not limited to the following components: application review and evaluation, written examination or exercise, physical examination, practical exercise and interview evaluation. Please notify the Human Resources Division 72 hours in advance of the test date if you have a disability which requires accommodation for the testing process.

The eligibility list will be in effect for one (1) year, unless exhausted sooner. The eligibility list established from this recruitment may be utilized to fill lower-level vacancies which occur during the life of the list. It is recommended you use a personal email address on your application instead of a work email address.

Notifications during this recruitment will be sent by email only (regardless of the notification preference selected during the on-line application process). Notifications will be sent to the email address that is listed on your on-line application. All employment offers made by the City are contingent upon establishing proof of a prospective candidate's legal authorization to work in the United States and successfully passing all components of the pre-employment process which may include, but is not limited to: comprehensive background check, criminal history check (livescan fingerprint check), polygraph examination, post-offer psychological evaluation and post-offer medical evaluation (may include drug screen).

Note: The provisions of this job bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provisions contained within may be modified or revoked without notice. Selection Process: The testing and evaluation for Custody Officer is as follows: Written Examination - Interested candidates who meet the position qualifications will take the entry-level Adult Correction Officer BSCC Selection Examination.

The examination will be administered by the City and scheduled shortly after the review date. Interview Evaluation - Based upon the information presented in the application, a limited number of applicants who possess qualifications most pertinent to the position will be invited to participate in the selection process. Candidates must pass the written examination or possess the BSCC Standards and Training Certificate (Jailer Academy) in order for their applications to be reviewed.

Please notify the Human Resources Division 72 hours in advance of the test date if you have a disability which requires accommodation for the testing process. AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFIERS: Please be advised of the Costa Mesa Police Department automatic disqualifiers: click here for a list of background disqualifiers. Essential Functions These functions may not be present in all positions in this class.

When a position is to be filled, the essential functions will be noted in the announcement of position availability. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind work assignments as needed. Maintain the safe and orderly operation of the City jail facility.

Receive, book, fingerprint, and photograph prisoners; perform prisoner classification and medical screening; verify and prepare custody verification forms for prisoners requiring medical treatment while in custody. Assume responsibility for the welfare and safety of all prisoners within the City jail facility; perform security, safety, and health checks of persons and facilities. Prepare meals for those in custody; order and maintain inventory control of food and supplies.

Receive bail monies and issue receipts; release prisoners on O-R and W.P.A. Perform jail desk duties; provide information to the public over the telephone. Coordinate visiting procedures including those between prisoners and bail bondsmen, attorneys, and personal visitors

Prepare prisoners for court arraignment by completing required booking forms, attaching copies of warrants, holds, and medical forms, returning clothing items, sealing prisoner property, and searching and handcuffing inmates prior to transportation to Court or another jail facility. Transport prisoners. Perform related duties as required.

Qualification Guidelines A typical way to obtain the requisite knowledge and abilities to perform the duties and responsibilities of this classification is as follows: EDUCATION, TRAINING AND/OR EXPERIENCE: One year of responsible work experience preferably in a jail/detention facility or in a law enforcement environment. High school graduation or its equivalent. An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience that provides the desired knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform essential functions may also be considered.

LICENSE AND/OR CERTIFICATE: Possession of, or ability to obtain, the following: Valid Class C California Driver's License. Revocation of license during employment may result in disciplinary action or reassignment. Certification of completion of the Jail Academy Core course issued by California Peace Officer Standards of Training (POST).

Certification of completion of chemical weaponry training. REQUISITE KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL LEVELS: Knowledge of jail/detention facility operations. Knowledge of related legal requirements pertaining to jail/detention facilities.

Knowledge of the occupational hazards and standard safety practices necessary in the assigned area of work. Knowledge of the principles and practices used in dealing with the public. Knowledge of the modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment.

Knowledge of the principles and procedures of record keeping. Knowledge of the basic civil and criminal statutes. Knowledge of safe driving principles and practices.

Skill in operating modern office equipment. Skill in operating a motor vehicle safely. REQUISITE ABILITIES: Ability to learn, interpret, and apply the policies, procedures, laws, codes, and regulations pertaining to assigned programs and functions.

Ability to interact effectively and sensitively with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Ability to act quickly and calmly in emergency situations. Ability to analyze situations carefully and adopt effective courses of action.

Ability to prepare and maintain accurate and complete records. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Ability to establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Ability to work various shifts as assigned including early morning, day and night hours, overtime, weekend and holidays. Supplemental Information PUBLIC EMPLOYEE DISASTER SERVICE WORKER: In accordance with Government Code Section 3100 - all City of Costa Mesa employees are required to perform assigned disaster service worker duties in the event of an emergency or a disaster. PHYSICAL TASKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS: Please contact Human Resources for a summary of the essential tasks and environmental factors for this classification.

Employee accommodations for physical or mental disabilities will be considered on a case-by-case basis.