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Entry Level Correction Officer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

CORRECTIONAL OFFICER STATEWIDE 1 1

Orlando, FL

$23.14/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Once you join the FDC, many career advancement opportunities are available, from an entry-level Correctional Officer to Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, Major, and Colonel. From there, management ...

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Entry Level Correction Officer information

See Florida salary details

$23.5K

$47.1K

$74.4K

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

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level correction officer in Florida is $47,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $55,700.00 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 Florida? The most popular types of Correction Officer jobs in Florida are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Correction Officer jobs in Florida? For Entry Level Correction Officer jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Entry Level Correction Officer jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Entry Level Correction Officer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Correction Officer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,053 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

OPS CORRECTIONAL OFFICER STATEWIDE 1 1

MyFlorida

Indiantown, FL

$22/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Temporary

Re-posted 12 days ago


State Of Florida rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 188 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 50 rated states


Job description

Requisition No: 878812 

Agency: Department of Corrections

Working Title: OPS CORRECTIONAL OFFICER STATEWIDE 1 1

 Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 70911111 

Salary:  $22 

Posting Closing Date: 12/31/2026 

Total Compensation Estimator Tool

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS

We Never Walk Alone

OPS CORRECTIONAL OFFICER

**OPEN COMPETITIVE**

This is a statewide advertisement for part-time OPS Correctional Officers to fill multiple vacanciesOPS Correctional Officers will be limited to no more than 25.5 hours per week.

ABOUT FDC:

The Florida Department of Corrections is the 3rd largest state prison system in the country. With over 150 facilities statewide and more than 22,000 staff members, it's the state's largest agency. Becoming a correctional officer with FDC means you are joining a family of hardworking men and women who are dedicated to ensuring public safety throughout Florida.


Once you join the FDC, many career advancement opportunities are available, from an entry-level Correctional Officer to Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, Major, and Colonel. From there, management positions include Assistant Wardens and Wardens. Correctional Officers can also join special teams such as Rapid Response, Crisis Response, Interdiction Units, K-9 Units, and many other special team opportunities.

COMPENSATION: $22.00 Hourly

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Must be certified as a Correctional Officer in Florida.
  • Must have an active certification in good standing.
  • Be at least 18 years of age (no age limit).
  • Be a United States Citizen.
  • Possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Possess a valid driver's license.
  • Must not have any felony convictions, misdemeanors involving perjury or false statement, or dishonorable discharge from U.S. military service. Any person who, after July 1, 1981, pleads guilty or nolo contendere to or is found guilty of a felony or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or a false statement shall not be eligible for employment or appointment as an officer, notwithstanding suspension of sentence or withholding of adjudication.
  • Pass a medical examination and drug test.
  • Have a good moral character as determined by a background investigation.
  • Recently Retired? Effective July 1, 2024, there is no longer a reemployment limitation; on the 7th calendar month from the member's distribution date, there are no restrictions for working as an FRS employer. You will not be required to repay any prior distributions, and you may continue receiving distributions from the Investment Plan or Pension Plan without interruption.

Note: Part-time OPS (25.5 hours or less) employees are not eligible for personal leave or health benefits.

By applying to this advertisement, you are expressly agreeing to receive text messages from the Florida Department of Corrections about your application. To be considered for the position, you must complete both steps below.

NEXT STEPS TO BECOMING A CORRECTIONAL OFFICER:

  • Step 1 - Complete the State of Florida application.   (Click "Apply Now" on this page.)
  • Step 2 - Submit a Security Background Questionnaire, which authorizes the agency to complete a background check (If you have not already completed Step 2, you will be texted and emailed a link within one business day after completing Step 1.)

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Visit: https://www.fldocjobs.com/correctional-officer/ for additional information about the position as well as hiring bonuses available at select locations.

You may also contact the Florida Department of Corrections Recruitment Center at 866-562-3362 for assistance with your application process. If you experience problems applying online, please call the People First Service Center at 1-877-562-7287.  Only electronic applications will be accepted.

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable-suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., the Drug-Free Workplace Act.

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.


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