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Trainee Correctional Officer information

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$34.5K

$74.4K

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How much do trainee correctional officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee correctional officer in the United States is $74,434.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $91,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee correctional officer?

A Trainee Correctional Officer is an entry-level employee in a correctional facility who is undergoing training to learn how to maintain safety, security, and order among inmates. Their responsibilities typically include supervising inmates, conducting security checks, and assisting in the daily operations of the facility under the guidance of experienced officers. Trainee Correctional Officers participate in formal classroom instruction as well as on-the-job training to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for the role. Upon successful completion of the training period, they may advance to a full Correctional Officer position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee correctional officer?

To thrive as a Trainee Correctional Officer, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic knowledge of correctional facility operations, and the ability to pass background checks and physical assessments. Familiarity with security monitoring systems, incident reporting software, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and effective communication are essential for managing inmate interactions and maintaining order. These skills are crucial for ensuring safety, upholding regulations, and fostering a secure and respectful correctional environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by trainee correctional officers during their initial training period?

Trainee Correctional Officers often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict protocols, managing high-stress situations, and learning effective communication with inmates and colleagues. The training period emphasizes physical fitness, conflict resolution, and adhering to safety procedures, which can be demanding for those new to the environment. Building confidence and developing the ability to remain calm under pressure are key aspects that trainees work on, often with the support of experienced officers and structured mentorship programs.

What is the difference between Trainee Correctional Officer vs Correctional Officer?

AspectTrainee Correctional OfficerCorrectional Officer
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some states require correctional officer training certificationMust have completed training and obtained certification or license
Work EnvironmentTraining environment within correctional facilities, supervised by experienced officersFull responsibilities in managing inmate behavior, security, and facility operations
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning security procedures, inmate supervision, and facility policiesEnforcing rules, maintaining security, and supervising inmates independently

In summary, a Trainee Correctional Officer is in the learning phase, focusing on training and skill development, while a Correctional Officer has completed training and actively performs security and supervision duties within correctional facilities.

How easy is it to get hired as a trainee correctional officer?

Getting hired as a trainee correctional officer typically involves meeting minimum age and education requirements, passing background checks, and completing a training program. The hiring process can be competitive, and candidates often need to demonstrate good communication skills and physical fitness. Having relevant certifications or prior experience in security can improve chances of employment.

What do entry level correctional officers do?

Entry-level correctional officers are responsible for supervising inmates, maintaining security within correctional facilities, and enforcing rules and regulations. They conduct patrols, monitor inmate behavior, perform searches, and document incidents, often working shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays. Basic training and adherence to safety protocols are essential components of the role.

What cities are hiring for Trainee Correctional Officer jobs?

Cities with the most Trainee Correctional Officer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Correctional Officer jobs?

The most popular types of Correctional Officer jobs are:

What states have the most Trainee Correctional Officer jobs?

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

Trainee Correctional Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Correctional Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,434 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

DOC Pontiac CC Correctional Officer Trainee

State of Illinois

Pontiac, IL • On-site

$5.0K - $6.4K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

State Of Illinois rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 52529 
Closing Date: 06/30/2027 11:59 p.m.
Agency: Department of Corrections - Pontiac Correctional Center
Class Title: CORRECTIONAL OFFICER TRAINEE - 09676 
Skill Option: None 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $5018 a month; Full Range $5018 - $6435 a month
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Livingston
Number of Vacancies: 100
Bargaining Unit Code: RC006 Corrections Employees, AFSCME
Merit Comp Code: 

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

 

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the Illinois Department of Corrections Website: Become a Correctional Officer

 

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

 

The Correctional Officer Trainee position, for a period not to exceed three months, will receive formalized and on-the-job training in security and custodial duties for IDOC. Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to be physically fit at the level required at screening prior to arrival at the Training Academy. Upon successful completion of Pre-service Security Training, IDOC cadets will participate in a formal ceremony at the academy and cadets are awarded certificates and badges and sworn to the Oath of Office.
 

DOC employs Correctional Officer Trainees at each of its 26 Correctional Centers across the state. Positions will be filled at different times for each of the following facilities:

Big Muddy River - Jefferson County

Centralia - Clinton County

Danville - Vermillion County

Decatur - Macon County

Dixon - Lee County

East Moline - Rock Island County

Graham - Montgomery County

Hill - Knox County

Illinois River - Fulton County

Jacksonville - Morgan County

Kewanee - Henry County

Lawrence - Lawrence County

Lincoln - Logan County

Logan - Logan County

Menard - Randolph County

Pinckneyville - Perry County

Pontiac - Livingston County

Robinson - Crawford County

Shawnee - Johnson County

Sheridan - LaSalle County

Southwestern IL - St Clair County

Stateville - Will County

Taylorville - Christian County

Vandalia - Fayette County

Vienna - Johnson County

Western - Brown County

For more information about the training process to become a correctional officer, visit Training Academy - About (illinois.gov)  on the Department's website.

 

 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Essential Functions
  1. Receives eight weeks of formalized pre-service security training at the Illinois Corrections Training Academy including firearms training due to requirements mandating qualification.
  2. Receives on-the-job training under immediate supervision of a qualified correctional employee. A
    1. Assigned each work week to another correctional employee to assist in running lines, yard, dining room, housing units, facility buildings, writs, observing individuals in custody, perimeter patrol, armory, counting, shakedowns, movement, etc.
    2. Travels by using a state issued vehicle to complete assignments.
  3. Receives one week orientation at facility.
    1. Given formal training in housing unit work, report writing, out-count work, yard work, running lines, individuals in custody at this institution and their assignments, chain-of-command, security buildings, disciplinary procedures, and any other training deemed necessary.
  4. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  1. Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four years of high school.
  2. Requires elementary knowledge of resident behavior problems.
Conditions of Employment
  1. Requires completion of a pre-service security training course during trainee period.
  2. Requires successful completion of a firearms training course and learn the proper use of firearms during trainee period.
  3. Requires a valid appropriate driver's license and the ability to travel statewide.
  4. Must be eligible under federal and state law to acquire and possess a firearm and must possess or be able to obtain and maintain a valid Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card.
  5. Required to utilize digital technology, tools, platforms, and processes in managing and supporting various digital enhancements for greater efficiency, productivity, and digital transformation efforts within the department.
  6. Requires ability to pass the IDOC/IDJJ background check.
  7. Requires ability to pass a drug screen.  The use of unauthorized drugs by an employee, regardless of the position held, is prohibited.
  8. Applicants are required to abide by all vaccine and/or other medical standards as set out by the employer.

Work Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., 11:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m.; shift and days off will vary
Headquarter Location: 700 W Lincoln St, Pontiac, Illinois, 61764
Work County: Livingston
Agency Contact: Mitzi Minton
Email: Mitzi.Minton@illinois.gov 
Posting Group: Public Safety

This position DOES NOT contain "Specialized Skills" (as that term is used in CBAs).

The Illinois Department of Corrections is a multicultural agency deeply committed to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion.  This commitment is at the forefront of our operations, hiring, policies and procedures, and training. We recognize the benefit of workplace empowerment, the importance of diversity and fully support an environment where ALL employees are treated fairly, respectfully, and have equal access to opportunities and resources necessary to thrive and contribute to the agency's success. IDOC genuinely values the differences of individuals in our custody and is committed to ensuring a healthy living environment where they feel valued, respected, and included. Through our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), we shall establish and uphold agency policies and practices conducive to eliminating all forms of exclusion including, but not limited to, racism, ageism, ableism, sexism, discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender, and religious oppression. The IDOC team works to serve justice in Illinois and increase public safety by promoting positive change in behavior of individuals in custody, operating successful reentry programs, and reducing victimization. Employees enjoy excellent benefits, including health, vision, and dental insurance; retirement plan and deferred compensation; state holidays and other benefit time off; and pre-tax benefit programs. The department also offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities. The Illinois Department of Corrections is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

As an IDOC employee, you are entitled to a robust benefits package that includes:

Health, Life, Vision and Dental Insurance

12 weeks paid maternity/paternity leave

Pension Plan - Vesting at 10 years for Tier II

Full 20-year retirement awards free health insurance during retirement

Deferred compensation and other pre-tax benefits programs

Paid state holidays: 13 - 14 day annually

3 paid Personal Business days annually

12 paid Sick days annually (Sick days carry over year to year)

10 - 25 Paid Vacation days annually (10 days beginning at year 1 employment)

Personal, Sick and Vacation rates modified for 12-hour work schedules (As applicable)

Employee Assistance Program and/or Mental Health resources

For more information about our benefits, please follow this link:  Benefits Information

What State Of Illinois employees say

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About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

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