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How much do state correctional officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for state correctional officer in the United States is $54,007.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a state correctional officer?

State Correctional Officers are law enforcement professionals responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in a state correctional facility. Their duties include maintaining security and order within prisons, supervising inmate activities, enforcing rules and regulations, and responding to emergencies. They also perform searches, escort inmates, and support rehabilitation programs. State Correctional Officers play a vital role in ensuring the safety of both inmates and staff while upholding institutional policies and procedures.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a state correctional officer?

To thrive as a State Correctional Officer, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and knowledge of security procedures, often supported by completion of a correctional officer training academy. Familiarity with security surveillance systems, incident reporting tools, and restraint equipment is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and sound judgment help officers manage inmate behavior and diffuse tense situations. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining safety, order, and effective operations within correctional facilities.

What challenges do state correctional officers face and how can new hires prepare for them?

State Correctional Officers often encounter challenges such as managing inmate behavior, maintaining personal safety, and responding to emergencies in a high-stress environment. New hires can prepare by developing strong communication skills, staying physically fit, and familiarizing themselves with departmental protocols and de-escalation techniques. Participating actively in training programs and seeking guidance from experienced colleagues can also help new officers adapt more effectively to the unique demands of correctional work.

What is the difference between State Correctional Officer vs State Probation Officer?

AspectState Correctional OfficerState Probation Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; some states require correctional trainingBachelor's degree often preferred; criminal justice or related field
Work EnvironmentPrison facilities, correctional institutionsCommunity settings, courts, probation offices
Employer & IndustryState correctional departments, prisonsState courts, probation agencies
Job FocusSupervising inmates, maintaining securityMonitoring offenders in the community, ensuring compliance

While both roles serve the criminal justice system, State Correctional Officers work inside prisons supervising inmates, whereas State Probation Officers oversee offenders in the community on probation. The roles differ in work environment, credentials, and daily responsibilities but are both essential for public safety and criminal justice management.

What cities are hiring for State Correctional Officer jobs?

Cities with the most State Correctional Officer job openings:

What states have the most State Correctional Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for State Correctional Officer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to State Correctional Officer jobs?

For State Correctional Officer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

State Correctional Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various State Correctional Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,007 per year, or $26 per hour.

Correctional Officer I (Northwest State Correctional Facility)

Saint Albans, VT • On-site

Vermont Jobs
Human Resources Consulting Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Vermont Jobsexternal

$42K - $55K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Correctional Officer I (Northwest State Correctional Facility)

A career with the Vermont Department of Corrections offers more than a job—it provides an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while serving your community. Correctional Officers play a critical role in maintaining safety and security while supporting rehabilitation, accountability, and positive change. This profession combines elements of security, human services, communication, problem-solving, and leadership. Through extensive training and ongoing professional development, Correctional Officers gain skills that can lead to advancement opportunities throughout the Department of Corrections. Many permanent positions are filled through internal promotion, making this an excellent opportunity to begin a long-term career with the State of Vermont.

Your career begins with a structured training process designed to prepare you for success. Facility Shadowing – New hires complete a minimum of 40 hours observing correctional operations and the daily responsibilities of a Correctional Officer. Vermont Correctional Academy – Recruits attend a six-week paid training academy focused on the core skills and knowledge required for the profession. On-the-Job Training – Upon graduation, recruits return to their assigned facility and complete two weeks of supervised training with a Facility Training Officer. Probationary Period – Following successful completion of training, employees enter a six-month probationary period. Start dates are based on facility needs and candidate availability.

Northwest State Correctional Facility utilizes an innovative 2-2-3 schedule designed to provide greater work-life balance while maintaining continuous facility operations. How the 2-2-3 Schedule Works: Employees work: Two consecutive days on Two consecutive days off Three consecutive days on Two consecutive days off. Benefits of the 2-2-3 Schedule Work only 7 of every 14 days Enjoy a three-day weekend every other week Approximately 180 workdays per year Predictable rotating schedule that allows for advanced personal planning Extended periods off for family, recreation, travel, and personal commitments Twelve-hour shifts that provide more days away from work This rotation repeats throughout the year. Shifts are assigned based on seniority and facility operational needs. Current shift schedules are: Day Shift: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Night Shift: 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM.

Job Requirements Ability to work overtime as required to maintain safe staffing levels. Ability to work weekends and holidays when scheduled. Successful completion of annual mandatory training requirements. Ability to perform the essential duties of a Correctional Officer in a secure correctional environment.

Our Values Employees of the Agency of Human Services perform their duties through four core practices: Customer Service Holistic Service Strength-Based Relationships Results Orientation At the Vermont Department of Corrections, we are committed to being firm, fair, and consistent while recognizing the capacity for human growth and change.

Who May Apply This position, Correctional Officer I (Northwest State Correctional Facility) (Job Requisition #55335), is open to all State employees and external applicants.

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