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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 Corrections Officer 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

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 all required activity in the Career Preparation Period, including Career Exploration and Career Success/Workplace Skills.
  • Be at least 18 or 21 years old. (varies by state)
  • Meet basic academic requirements in math and reading.
  • Have a clean criminal record. (varies by state)
  • Complete 6 months of full-time work experience in addition to Job Corps training
  • 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.

Expectations

While on the job, you will be expected to display the following traits at all times:

  • Attention to detail
  • Concern for others
  • Dependability
  • Integrity
  • Professionalism

Corrections Officer Numbers to Know

$54K

National average earning potential for this career

Completion times vary by training area. Check with your admissions advisor.

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