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Entry Level Correction Officer Jobs in Tennessee

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Entry Level Correction Officer information

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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Correction Officer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Miscellaneous Temp - Clerical (Juvenile Court Clerk)

Shelby County Sheriff's Office

Memphis, TN โ€ข On-site

$20.77/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description


Position Summary
Works under general supervision to perform a variety of entry-level clerical / administrative duties that may require use of limited independent judgment and skill in processing communicating creating and/or maintaining various records files and information regarding specific departmental functions.
Pay Grade: 41H
Minimum Qualifications
  • Two (2) years of experience in appropriate clerical, bookkeeping, data processing or statistical work; AND
  • High school diploma or possess a GED; OR
  • One (1) year of appropriate clerical, bookkeeping, data processing or statistical work experience and one (1) year of college study (30 semester hours or 36 quarters).
  • PROOF OF EDUCATION, TRAINING AND/OR EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Processes and/or enters pertinent data into the computer or other record format for processing or issuing department specific applications, registrations, permits, licenses, documents; etc.
  • Composes letters, memoranda, reports for review and signature. Files and maintains control records. Operates office machines.
  • Greets customers and answers questions by telephone or in person concerning departmental policies, procedures and work functions.
  • Collects fees and other required monetary charges related to department specific services and processes.
  • Maintains and balances cash drawer, if applicable in the processing of applicable fees or other monetary charges, calculates daily revenues received by balancing cash drawers and recording revenue.
  • Receives, reviews and processes records, reports and other various documents as required for accuracy and/or conformance with established policies and procedures.
  • Mails or issues in person department specific authorized documents or materials as required.
  • Obtains data from various sources to prepare and compile standard reports.
  • Relieves or assists other clerical employees in assigned work area.
  • Performs other related duties as required or directed.

KSAs
  • Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures and equipment; skilled at operating office equipment.
  • Ability to become proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel. Familiarity with computerized databases.
  • Knowledge of Business English and math.
  • Ability to communicate with staff and the public with courtesy and tact.
  • Ability to plan, organize and maintain an even flow of work.
  • Ability to express ideas clearly, concisely and effectively, verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to resolve problem situations.

Disclaimer
This position is subject to a background check for any convictions that have substantial relationship to potential job duties. Only convictions that are substantially related to potential job duties will be considered and will not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Shelby County Resident Disclaimer
All employees hired after September 1, 1986, must be residents of Shelby County and shall continue to reside in the County as a condition of their employment. The residency requirement shall not apply to certain public safety/civil service employees. This means exemption from this policy is in effect for the following departments and positions: (1) Sheriff Deputy Patrol Officers, Deputy Jailers and Dispatchers, employed by the Sheriff Department, (2) Correction Officers employed by the Division of Corrections, (3) Firefighters, Paramedics and Dispatchers employed by the Shelby County Fire Department. The residency exemption for public safety/civil service employees does not include Appointed positions with Sheriff's Office, Division of Corrections or the Fire Department.