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State Corrections Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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State Corrections information

What does a state corrections officer do?

State corrections officers are law enforcement professionals who oversee individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in a state correctional facility. Their main duties include maintaining order and security within prisons or jails, supervising inmate activities, enforcing rules and regulations, and ensuring the safety of both inmates and staff. Corrections officers also conduct searches for contraband, respond to emergencies, and assist with rehabilitation efforts to help inmates reintegrate into society upon release.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a state corrections officer?

To thrive as a State Corrections Officer, you need a high school diploma or GED, physical fitness, knowledge of correctional procedures, and typically completion of a state-sponsored training academy. Familiarity with security monitoring systems, incident reporting software, and restraint equipment is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and effective conflict resolution make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safety, order, and rehabilitation of inmates within correctional facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by state corrections officers, and how can new hires prepare for them?

State Corrections officers frequently encounter challenges such as managing inmate behavior, maintaining safety in high-stress environments, and working irregular hours. New hires can prepare by developing strong communication and conflict resolution skills, familiarizing themselves with institutional policies, and maintaining physical and mental resilience. Building supportive relationships with colleagues and participating in ongoing training can also help officers adapt more successfully to the demands of the role.

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

AspectState CorrectionsState Probation Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; some roles require correctional officer trainingBachelor's degree in criminal justice or related field; probation officer certification
Work EnvironmentPrisons, detention centers, correctional facilitiesCommunity settings, courts, offender supervision offices
Employer & IndustryState correctional departments, prisonsState probation agencies, courts
Job FocusSupervising inmates, maintaining securityMonitoring offenders in community, ensuring compliance with probation terms

While both roles are part of the criminal justice system, State Corrections primarily involves managing incarcerated individuals within correctional facilities, focusing on security and custody. In contrast, State Probation Officers supervise offenders in community settings, emphasizing rehabilitation and compliance with court orders. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path within the criminal justice field.

Is it easy to get hired in state corrections?

Getting hired in state corrections can be competitive and typically requires meeting minimum qualifications such as a high school diploma or GED, passing background checks, and completing training or certification programs. Candidates with prior experience in law enforcement, security, or related fields may have an advantage during the hiring process.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for State Corrections jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most State Corrections job openings:

Infographic showing various State Corrections job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 61% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Corrections Officer: Pocahontas State Correctional Center #00364

Tazewell, VA


State of Virginia
Executive Offices and Legislative Bodies • 10K+ employees

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 50 rated states

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


$49K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Corrections Officer: Pocahontas State Correctional Center #00364

Apply now Job no: 5107159
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Tazewell, Virginia
Categories: Public Safety

Title: Corrections Officer: Pocahontas State Correctional Center #00364

State Role Title: Security Officer III

Hiring Range: $49,391.00

Pay Band: 3

Agency: Dept of Corr - Central Admin

Location: Pocahontas State Corr Ctr

Agency Website: www.vadoc.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

Corrections officers contribute to the public safety mission by providing for the safety and security of the public, staff, and inmates by ensuring effective and safe custody and control along with compliance with policy and procedure. Successfully accomplished through the use of evidence-based practices and principles that enhance effective communication strategies and role modeling as part of collaborative multi-disciplinary teams addressing inmate needs. Officers provide security over adult inmates at the institution and while in transport; supervise the daily activities of inmates while observing and recording their behavior and movement to ensure their safe and secure confinement.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or a GED equivalent. Valid Driver's License. Demonstrated ability to read and comprehend workplace policies and procedures and to prepare workplace reports and documentation. Ability to lawfully possess a firearm in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Ability to successfully complete all pre-employment requirements which include medical screening, background check and drug testing to include screening for marijuana use.

Additional Considerations

Stable employment history, military or related criminal justice experience. Prefer individuals at least 21 years old (a waiver may be provided by the Unit Head for individuals 18-20 years old). Bi-lingual and Multi-lingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

If selected as a finalist with the VADOC, candidates can expect the following:
Background Investigation Requirements: All applicants are subject to a background investigation. Investigations may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI); local agency checks; employment verification; verification of education (relevant to employment); credit checks; and other checks based on the position.
Drug Testing Requirements: Applicants applying to a designated safety sensitive position are subject to a pre-employment drug screen. Marijuana use is prohibited for positions that require possession of a firearm or a Commercial Driver's License in the performance of official duties such as Corrections Officers, Probation Officers, Tractor Trailer Drivers and others.
Application Requirements: Application and/or resume for this position are only accepted electronically through the Commonwealth of Virginia's Electronic Recruitment System. All applications should be submitted by 11:55pm on the closing date for the position. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand delivered applications and/or resumes will not be accepted. The decision to interview an applicant is based solely on the information received for this position from the electronic application and/or resume.
Layoff Preferences: Applicants who possess an Interagency Placement Screening Form (Yellow Form) or a Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Form) as issued under the Department of Human Resources Management (DHRM) Policy 1.30 Layoff (Commonwealth of VA employees only) MUST attach these forms when submitting their state application and/or resume.
VADOC is an EEO employer and is committed to supporting workforce diversity, equitable opportunities and inclusivity. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.
VADOC values our Veterans and encourages all to apply and receive preference in the hiring process. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other nation service alumni are also encouraged to apply. Click here for more information: Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program - Virginia Department of Veterans Services
If selected as a finalist with the VADOC, candidates can expect the following:
Background Investigation Requirements: All applicants are subject to a background investigation. Investigations may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI); local agency checks; employment verification; verification of education (relevant to employment); credit checks; and other checks based on the position.
Drug Testing Requirements: Applicants applying to a designated safety sensitive position are subject to a pre-employment drug screen. Marijuana use is prohibited for positions that require possession of a firearm or a Commercial Driver's License in the performance of official duties such as Corrections Officers, Probation Officers, Tractor Trailer Drivers and others.
Application Requirements: Application and/or resume for this position are only accepted electronically through the Commonwealth of Virginia's Electronic Recruitment System. All applications should be submitted by 11:55pm on the closing date for the position. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand delivered applications and/or resumes will not be accepted. The decision to interview an applicant is based solely on the information received for this position from the electronic application and/or resume.
Tobacco Free: All VADOC facilities are Tobacco free. Use of all tobacco products is always prohibited on site. Layoff Preferences: Applicants who possess an Interagency Placement Screening Form (Yellow Form) or a Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Form) as issued under the Department of Human Resources Management (DHRM) Policy 1.30 Layoff (Commonwealth of VA employees only) MUST attach these forms when submitting their state application and/or resume. VADOC is an EEO employer and is committed to supporting workforce diversity, equitable opportunities and inclusivity. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request and approval.

Contact Information

Name: Human Resources

Phone: 276-945-2230

Email: EMAILED APPLICATIONS/RESUMES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED FOR THIS POSITION

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Advertised: 29 Jun 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:

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