Correctional Officer

Salary: $35,916.51 Annually

Position Summary:

This officer directs inmate activities in cellblocks, housing units, day rooms, work areas and recreation areas. The officer observes inmates from tower, on corridors, and in visiting areas to ensure security is maintained and all facility rules are adhered to. The officer provides guidance and advice in assisting inmates in their adjustment to and participation in correctional processes. This officer’s work varies from duties where there is direct involvement with inmates, to work where there is limited contact with inmates and visitors. This officer is directly supervised and his performance is reviewed for adherence to facility rules and procedures.

Essential Functions:

• Inspects inmate living areas for cleanliness, contraband, stolen items and escape implements, plans or procedures.
• Observes inmate behavior for signs or duress and/or escape.
• Instruct inmates on personal hygiene and housekeeping duties.
• Quells disturbances and reports inmates involved.
• Escort inmate to/from hospital and special activities.
• Inform inmates of any rules and/or procedure changes.
• Answer any inmate inquiries.
• Monitor all housing units for fire hazards and/or suspicious occurrences.
• Ensure inmate living areas are suitable.
• Maintains security during exercise and recreation times.
• Operates electronic equipment to open doors allowing entrance or exit to facility, day rooms, housing units, etc.
• Administers emergency first aid to inmates or other employees, ensure injured persons are taken to dispensary.
• Checks inmate passes and records all inmate movement.
• Sign visitors in/out of visiting areas, searches all visitors.
• Ensures inmates to not receive contraband.
• Work the Guard towers; observing the facility complex to ensure there are no escapes, unauthorized persons, fire or anything suspicious.
• Issues laundry, supplies and clothing to inmates.
• Officer will periodically observe inmates during showers to make sure inmate is taking shower and not causing a disturbance.
• Assist other officers in emergency situations.
• Supervises inmates on the blocks to ensure they are fed in an orderly manner, maintaining security during meal periods.
• Controls access to/from inmate housing units/cell blocks.
• Move groups of inmates in an orderly manner from one area of the institution to another.

Requirements:

• Candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED certificate from an accredited agency.
• Candidates must be 21 years of age and possess valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License.
• Candidates must successfully complete a background investigation, and urinalysis screening for drugs.
• Candidates must pass firearms safety and qualification course as well as a physical fitness assessment (1/2 mile run and 45lbs footlocker lift and carry)
• Previous positive employment with a law enforcement agency and/or correctional institution. Or any equivalent combinations of experience and/or training.