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Entry Level Correction Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Correctional Officer

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$38K - $65K/yr

The Cook County Sheriff's Merit Board is accepting applications for entry level correctional officer positions. Applications must be completed and submitted through the sheriff's on-line application ...

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The Cook County Sheriff's Merit Board is accepting applications for entry level correctional officer positions. Applications must be completed and submitted through the sheriff's on-line application ...

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Correctional Officer - Carroll County Department of Corrections Looking for a career with purpose, stability, and opportunity for growth? Join the Carroll County Department of Corrections as a ...

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Correctional Officer - Carroll County Department of Corrections Looking for a career with purpose, stability, and opportunity for growth? Join the Carroll County Department of Corrections as a ...

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Entry Level Correction Officer information

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$31.5K

$63K

$99.5K

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

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level correction officer in the United States is $62,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $74,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level correction officers?

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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Entry Level Correction Officer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Correction Officer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Correction Officer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Correction Officer jobs? The most popular types of Correction Officer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Correction Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Correction Officer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Correction Officer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,965 per year, or $30.3 per hour.
Corrections Officer - Southern Facilities

Corrections Officer - Southern Facilities

State of Michigan

Lansing, MI • On-site

$23.45 - $35.23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


State Of Michigan rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 181 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 50 rated states


Job description

Salary: $23.45 - $35.23 Hourly
Location : Multiple Vacancies and Locations Available - See Posting for Details, MI
Job Type: Permanent Full Time
Job Number: 47CO-21-Southern CO
Department: Corrections Recruitment
Opening Date: 06/07/2014
Bargaining Unit: MICHIGAN CORRECTIONS ORGANIZATION (MCO)
Job Description
The Michigan Department of Corrections is proud to be a Michigan Veteran's Affairs Agency (MVAA) Gold Level Veteran Friendly Employer.
MDOC is proud to employ nearly 1,500 veterans and actively serving military members across the department. The Department has many benefits and services available to support our military and veteran employees, spouses, and families. Learn more about what makes MDOC a Gold-Level Veteran Friendly Employerhere.
CORRECTIONS OFFICERS - SOUTHERN FACILITIES
PLEASE NOTE THIS POSTING IS FOR THE FOLLOWING FACILITIES WITHIN OUR SOUTHERN REGION OF OPERATIONS.
Gus Harrison Correctional Facility (ARF) - 2727 East Beecher St. Adrian, MI 49221
Lakeland Correctional Facility(LCF) - 141 First St. Coldwater, MI 49036
Bellamy Creek Correctional Facility (IBC) - 1727 West Bluewater Highway Ionia, MI 48846
Ionia Correctional Facility(ICF) - 1576 W. Bluewater Highway Ionia, MI 48846
Richard Handlon Correctional Facility (MTU) - 1728 Bluewater Highway Ionia, MI 48846
Charles Egeler Correctional Facility (RGC) - 3855 Cooper St. Jackson, MI 49201-7547
Cooper Street Correctional Facility (JCS) - 3100 Cooper St. Jackson, MI 49201
Parnall Correctional Facility (SMT) - 1780 East Parnall Rd. Jackson, MI 49201
G. Robert Cotton Correctional Facility (JCF) - 3500 N. Elm Road Jackson, MI 49201
Thumb Correctional Facility (TCF) - 3225 John Conley Drive Lapeer, MI 48446
Macomb Correctional Facility (MRF) - 34625 26 Mile Rd. Lenox Township, MI 48048
Woodland Center Correctional Facility (WCC) - 9036 E. M-36 Whitmore Lake, MI 48189
Women's Huron Valley Correctional Facility (WHV) - 3201 Bemis Road Ypsilanti, MI 48197-0911
Be a Corrections Officer for the State of Michigan :
Begin your career here! Start as a Corrections Officer or even a Corrections Medical Officer which is just the first step. To see where this decision can take you, follow the MDOC Career Path link to see additional employment and promotional opportunities.
These are entry-level position. Employees in this job oversee and participate in the custody, security, and treatment of prisoners in correctional facilities.
MILITARY VETERANS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY
View the class specification for the Corrections Officer at:
View the class specification for the Corrections Medical Officer at:
View the position description.
View the physical fitness standards at:
Corrections Officer positions are at various locations throughout the state, Corrections Medical Officers are located exclusively at Woodland Center Correctional Facility. See map link for the locations:
Upon hire as a Corrections Officer or Corrections Medical Officer, the employees is required to successfully complete the DOC Officer Recruit Training program designed to provide knowledge and skills required to function as a corrections officer. The training program consists of 8 weeks of academy training and two months of on-the-job training. Upon successful completion of the training and other departmental requirements, the officer will complete the probationary period at an assigned correctional facility (facilities are located throughout the state). The employee participates in the custody, security, and treatment of prisoners or detainees while learning and developing the interpersonal skills required to perform a range of corrections officer assignments. Successful completion of the initial training program, annual training, and continuing certification as a Corrections Officer are required to remain employed.
NOTE: These positions are considered test designated and are subject to all forms of drug and alcohol testing.
Required Education and Experience
Education
Completion of 15 semester (23 term) college credits in any field.
Military Veterans: The MDOC accepts Joint Services Transcripts(JST). Please call 517-335-1863 or 517-241-8559 for assistance with your JST's. A DD214 is not a Joint Service Transcript.
Experience
Corrections Officer 8 OR Correction Medical Officer 8
No specific type or amount is required.
Alternate Education and Experience
Corrections Officer 8
Two years of full-time corrections officer experience in another local, state, federal or private correctional institution, and currently employed satisfactorily in a corrections officer position, or have left corrections officer employment in satisfactory status.
OR
Successful completion of basic training in the uniformed services.
*Education Waiver - Employees in possession of less than 15 semester (23 term) college credits may be eligible for participation in the Education Waiver Program, in which employees are allowed up to 24 months from the date of hire to obtain college credits necessary to satisfy the education requirement. Successful completion of the education requirement, in addition to meeting the experience requirement, is mandatory for an employee to be considered eligible for reclassification to the Corrections Officer E9. Completion of the education requirement prior to expiration of the 24-month waiver period is required to remain employed as a Corrections Officer.
Additional Requirements and Information
YOUR APPLICATION FOR ANY POSITION DOES NOT GUARANTEE YOU WILL BE CONTACTED BY THE DEPARTMENT/AGENCY FOR FURTHER CONSIDERATION. Failure to complete or attach any of the above items such as an OFFICIALcollege transcript or Joint Service Transcript may result in your application being screen out.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have questions or need assistance uploading and/or attaching your documents please call the Office of Career Services at 800-788-1766
Do not attach a resume or cover letter in lieu of Official College Transcript.
The Department of Corrections may screen out job applicants who have been convicted of a felony in accordance with Public Act 191 of 2017. Applicants who have been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony are ineligible for employment with the Department of Corrections until satisfactory completion of any sentence imposed, including parole or probation.
The Department of Corrections will not hire individuals who are found unsuitable for employment as a Corrections Officer based on background investigation of the individual.
An applicant must be at least eighteen (18) years of age at time of employment as a Corrections Officer.
An applicant must pass a post-job-offer medical exam, drug screen, and physical fitness test.
An applicant must finish an approved eight week corrections officer training program, followed by eight weeks of on the job training. Successful completion of the training program, annual training, and continuing certification as a Corrections Officer are required to remain employed.
**** REQUIRED INFORMATION: Employment in the state classified service demands a high degree of loyalty and imposes high ethical standards on employees to ensure the integrity of state government and maintain effective services. All employees must meet these ethical standards and all appointing authorities are obligated to enforce these ethical standards.
As part of this effort all employees are required to report any possible conflict of interest, please review the information and be prepared to respond to questions related to the information in your application. (Note: you do not need to fill out the form)

Required Documents
And, depending on the alternate education and experience:
Proof of two years' experience as a Correctional Officer in a State or Federal Penitentiary. This documentation must be submitted from the Human Resources Department indicating that you are currently in good standing or left in good standing.
Scan and attach your DD-214-Member 4 Copy (active duty), NGB-22-Individual Copy 2 (National Guard), and/or discharge certificate (all other military reserve duty) for each tour of service along with the application.
Scan and attach verification from the military branch where you are currently serving.
Official Transcript
An official transcript must bear the college/university certification (e.g. seal, logo, watermark, and/or letterhead), Registrar's signature, and date. A transcript with these requirements, with the stamp "Issued to Student" is accepted as an official transcript. An unofficial transcript will NOT be accepted. An unofficial transcript is: (1) an internet copy printed from the college/university student web account; (2) a transcript stamped with "Student Copy," and (3) a transcript that is labeled as "Unofficial." The official transcript must be scanned and attached to the electronic NEOGOV Civil Service application with one of the following file extensions: pdf, doc, docx, txt, or rft. Photographs or Instagrams of official transcripts are not accepted. When building your Applicant Profile in the NEOGOV application, click the Add Attachment(s) Section to add your transcript(s). When attaching transcripts, please name the college/university for each transcript attached.
Military Veterans: The MDOC accepts Joint Services Transcripts(JST). Please call 517-335-1863 or 517-241-8559 for assistance with your JST's.
Recruitment Office: For general questions related to Corrections Officer recruitment please call 517-335-1874
Accommodations
If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or selection processes, please contact the for the agency that posted this position vacancy.
State employment also offers rewarding careers where you can help Michiganders enjoy better lives. Many State of Michigan jobs offer alternate work schedules and remote-work options that can help give the flexibility you need. The State of Michigan has been recognized as a leading U.S. employer by new graduates from 2021-2023 and a best large U.S. and state employer. Recognized on the international stage for fostering positive employee engagement, the State of Michigan is a past recipient of a North America Government Agency Employees Engagement Award.
More details on benefits for our new hires are below:
Rewarding Work: State of Michigan jobs allow you to serve Michiganders in many different ways depending on your interests and skills. Help preserve and protect our environment and the public health; enforce state laws and regulations; advocate for children, families, and victims of discrimination; support our state's military and veterans; rebuild our state's infrastructure; or support other state agencies through our fiscal, IT, and HR systems.
Insurance Benefits: The State of Michigan offers health, mental health, dental, and vision insurance to eligible career employees, their spouses, and their children. The state also covers a life-insurance benefit of two times employees' annual salary (up to $200,000). The state also offers long-term-disability insurance that can provide continuing benefits if an injury or illness prevents employees from working. More information is available at www.mi.gov/employeebenefits.
Retirement Programs: The State of Michigan offers 401(k) and 457 plans for new hires to save for retirement. The state will automatically contribute an amount equal to 4% of your pay to a 401(k) account. The state will also match up to 5% of your pay if you contribute to your 401(k) account. Your contributions vest immediately, and the state's contributions fully vest after just 4 years. More information is available at http://www.mi.gov/orsstatedc.
Vacation and Sick Leave: Eligible full-time employees receive between 15 and 35 personal days and 13 sick days per year that may be rolled over to the following year if not used. Eligible employees also receive an additional day each year for community service or school functions.
Paid Parental Leave: Eligible employees can take 12 weeks of paid leave immediately after a birth or adoption to allow needed time together at home with a new child.
Paid Holidays: Eligible employees receive 13 or 14 paid holidays each year including New Year's Eve and Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Election Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving Friday, Christmas Eve and Day.
Bonus Programs: Eligible employees with five years of service also receive annual longevity bonuses that grow as seniority increases. Some positions also may qualify for recruitment, retention, and performance bonuses or other special pay premiums.
Military Pay Differential: Employees in the guard or reserves may also qualify for supplemental pay benefits if miliary pay during qualifying duty is less than normal state pay. Prior military service may also allow seniority credits to accelerate eligibility for longevity bonuses and additional personal leave accrual.
Tax-Advantaged Programs: In addition to 401(k) and 457 retirement accounts, the state also offers flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), and qualified transportation fringe benefit (QTFB) programs that can help you save money by reducing your taxable income.
Student Loan Forgiveness: Working for the State of Michigan may allow you to participate in programs that forgive the balance of qualifying student loans. Please view Student Loan Information to help determine if you could qualify is available from the U.S. Department of Education.
Tuition Reduction: Some colleges and universities offer savings to eligible employees and family members to further their e...

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