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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Correctional Officers.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Correctional Officers.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: -10%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Conduct head counts to ensure that each prisoner is present.
Inspect conditions of locks, window bars, grills, doors, and gates at correctional facilities to ensure security and help prevent escapes.
Monitor conduct of prisoners in housing unit, or during work or recreational activities, according to established policies, regulations, and procedures, to prevent escape or violence.
Becoming a correctional officer is an admirable career choice that offers the opportunity to maintain safety and security within jails, prisons, and other detention centers. If you're considering this profession, here's a step-by-step guide that outlines what you need to know to enter this field.
Before you dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the general requirements for becoming a correctional officer:
Requirements can vary widely between different states and the federal system. It's crucial to research the specifics for where you intend to work.
While a high school diploma is often the minimum requirement, further education can make you a more competitive candidate.
Once you've met all the prerequisites, it's time to apply for positions.
After being hired, you'll need to complete the necessary training program.
Even after securing employment as a correctional officer, it's important to continue your education and training.
By carefully following these steps and preparing yourself both mentally and physically for the challenges of the job, you can successfully become a correctional officer. Remember that this career requires a strong commitment to ethics, continual learning, and resilience in the face of challenging situations.
To embark on a career as a Correctional Officer, you typically need to meet the following requirements:
For more detailed information, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons or your local state corrections department website.
Career advancement for Correctional Officers can take several forms:
As a Correctional Officer, you may find employment in various types of institutions:
The demand for Correctional Officers fluctuates based on several factors:
Stay informed about job market trends by checking USAJobs for federal positions and your state's employment website for local opportunities.
Correctional Officers often encounter various challenges on the job:
Employment as a Correctional Officer with a criminal record depends on:
It's best to contact your local corrections agency for specific guidelines.