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State Corrections Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Iowa Corrections offers a competitive salary and benefits in comparison to other public employment and other state corrections departments Starting pay is $24.00/hour + shift differential for 2nd and ...

Own and drive the strategy and execution for a multi-state Corrections territory, building and executing account plans to execute large scale, technology-driven operational transformation across ...

Own and drive the strategy and execution for a multi-state Corrections territory, building and executing account plans to execute large scale, technology-driven operational transformation across ...

Iowa Corrections offers a competitive salary and benefits in comparison to other public employment and other state corrections departments Starting pay is $24.48/hour + shift differential for 2nd and ...

Own and drive the strategy and execution for a multi-state Corrections territory, building and executing account plans to execute large scale, technology-driven operational transformation across ...

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State Corrections information

How much does a state correctional officer make?

A state correctional officer typically earns an average salary ranging from $40,000 to $55,000 annually, depending on the state, experience, and level of responsibility. Salaries often increase with seniority, specialized training, and additional certifications, and officers usually work in a correctional facility environment with shift schedules.

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 highest paying job in corrections?

In corrections, the highest paying roles are typically senior management positions such as Corrections Director or Warden, which can earn six-figure salaries. These roles require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often advanced degrees or certifications in criminal justice or public administration.

What are state corrections officers and what do they 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.

Is it easy to get hired as a correctional officer?

Getting hired as a correctional officer typically involves meeting minimum age and education requirements, passing a background check, and completing training or certification programs. The hiring process can be competitive and may include physical fitness tests and interviews, but with proper preparation, candidates can improve their chances of employment.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a State Corrections Officer, and why are they important?

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.

Why do so many correctional officers quit?

Correctional officers often leave the job due to high stress, exposure to violence, and challenging working conditions. The demanding environment, irregular shifts, and emotional toll can contribute to burnout and job dissatisfaction, leading to high turnover rates in the profession.
More about State Corrections jobs
What cities are hiring for State Corrections jobs? Cities with the most State Corrections job openings:
What states have the most State Corrections jobs? States with the most job openings for State Corrections jobs include:
Infographic showing various State Corrections job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.
Corrections Sergeant: Pocahontas State Correctional Center: #00435

Corrections Sergeant: Pocahontas State Correctional Center: #00435

Virginia Department of Human Resource Management

Tazewell, VA • On-site

$52K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority rating

4.9

Company rating: 4.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

664th of 675 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Corrections Sergeant: Pocahontas State Correctional Center: #00435
Job no: 5106889
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Tazewell, Virginia
Categories: Public Safety
Title: Corrections Sergeant: Pocahontas State Correctional Center: #00435
State Role Title: Security Officer IV
Hiring Range: $52,721.00 - $94,002.00
Pay Band: 4
Agency: Dept of Corr - Central Admin
Location: Pocahontas State Corr Ctr
Agency Website: www.vadoc.virginia.gov
Recruitment Type: Agency Employee Only - A
Job Duties
Position is responsible for contributing to the public safety mission by providing first line supervision to Corrections Officers and Corrections Officer Trainees in an institutional setting. Supervises and monitors staff on assigned shift to ensure a safe and secure environment. Communicates with management, staff, visitors, inmates, and the public. Leads and counsel's staff. Completes required training. Maintains a safe and productive workforce.
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent. Valid Driver's License. Current DCJS certification. Working knowledge and understanding of correctional policies, procedures, and practices. Demonstrated ability to organize, plan, schedule and supervise the work of others. Demonstrated ability to read and comprehend workplace policies and procedures and to prepare workplace reports and documentation. Ability to sufficiently receive, understand, follow, and give oral and written instructions. Ability to work independently with minimum supervision. Demonstrated ability to organize, plan, schedule and supervise the work of others. Demonstrated ability to read and comprehend workplace policies and procedures and to prepare workplace reports and documentation.
Additional Considerations
Previous supervisory experience. Equivalent training or experience. Demonstrated ability to produce written reports using a computer. 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 résumé 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 résumé 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 résumés 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 résumé.
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 résumé.
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.
Contact Information
Name: Human Resources
Phone: 804-659-8424
Email: EMAILED APPLICATIONS/RÉSUMÉS / 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: 24 Jun 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 10 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
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