Train

Corrections Officer

HOMELAND SECURITY

Description

Corrections Officers are responsible for the custody and control of individuals who have been arrested, are awaiting trial, or are serving a prison or jail sentence. They are also responsible for the security of the facility itself.

Career Details

Skills

Students in are trained in the following subject areas:

Booking prisoners
Field notes and report writing
Observation and memory skills
Patrol principles
Searching prisoners
Crowd control
Physical security applications
Alarm system fundamentals
Central alarm stations and dispatch centers
Access control
Guarding and watching prisoners
Inventorying possessions of new inmates
Preventing fights and potential riots
Workplace violations
Effective communication
Crisis intervention
Security awareness
Operational risk management
Interviewing techniques
Investigation: concepts and practices for security professionals
Legal aspects of security
Use of force
Defensive tactics and officer safety
Apprehension and detention procedures

Career Options

Most corrections officers are employed by the government, though some are employed by private companies. Officers must wear uniforms and keep a neat appearance and haircut.

Requirements

Before entering the program, students must:

Complete six months’ full-time work experience in addition to training.
Be at least 18 or 21 years old. (varies by state)
Complete the core curriculum with passing scores on all written and performance tests.
Meet basic academic requirements in math and reading.
Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Have a clean criminal record. (varies by state)
Provide two references (e.g., career technical training instructor and work-based learning supervisor).

Credentials

As a Job Corps student, you will have the opportunity to earn credentials in your training area that may lead to greater employment opportunities, higher wages, and promotions.