Correctional Officers
| Description |
OES Code: 63017 |
Correctional Officers and Jailers guard inmates in penal or rehabilitative institution in accordance with established regulations and procedures. May guard prisoners in transit between jail, courtroom, prison, or other point, traveling by automobile or public transportation. Include Deputy Sheriffs who spend the majority of their time guarding prisoners in county correctional institutions.
Wages, California
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$18.14 |
| 25th Percentile |
$20.17 |
| 50th Percentile |
$23.47 |
| 75th Percentile |
$26.28 |
Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey
Hours & Benefits
The usual work week is forty hours, but officers may be assigned to any one of three eight-hour shifts. Overtime, which may be required during emergencies, is compensated at time and a half. Shift work and working on Sundays and holidays is common.
Almost all positions are civil service and employers provide medical insurance, sick leave, retirement, vacation, and vision insurance.
Employment Trends, California
| Employment 1998 |
30,800 |
| Projected Employment 2008 |
42,900 |
| Percent Change 1998-2008 |
39.3% |
| Separations 1998-2008 |
10,100 |
Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
| Employment 1999 |
940 |
| Projected Employment 2006 |
1,160 |
| Percent Change 1999-2006 |
23.4% |
| Separations 1999-2006 |
200 |
Employment Trends by California County
Working Conditions
Correctional Officers work in various sized penal institutions, ranging from tightly controlled, maximum-security prisons to light-security complexes resembling college campuses. Some work in small, minimum-security conservation camps located in forest and brush lands throughout the State. A few are assigned to "halfway houses" or to community correctional centers, which are located in several major cities.
There is some potential for personal harm, although the nature and extent of danger vary with each assignment. In general, the hazard is minimized by following recognized procedures for preventing and controlling violence.
Advancement
Opportunities are sometimes available for promotion to correctional sergeant, lieutenant and captain. Two years of experience at the previous level is required to take the promotional examination for each of these positions.
Getting the Job & Other Information
Over 95 percent of Correctional Officers are employed by the State of California, while the balance work in federal correctional facilities.
For employment with the State of California, applications for examinations are accepted continuously in person or by mail at the regional testing centers (see below). An applicant may take the written exam only once a year, but may take the physical abilities test more often. Persons who pass the complete examination will be placed on an eligible list according to rank. Appointments are made from this list, which remains in effect for two years.
- Northern Testing Center, (906) 227-2110
- Southern Testing Center, (909) 944-6697
- Central Testing Center, (209) 445-6141
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For current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank. |
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New hires attend a Department of Corrections Training Academy in Galt, near Sacramento, for six weeks. During their first nine months of employment (probationary period), Correctional Officers rotate among various assignments and different shifts.
Throughout their first year, officers receive on-the-job training in all the basic custodial skills including cell search, body search, transportation of prisoners, supervision of inmates and human relations.
To supplement on-the- job training, officers take formal courses in subjects where their skills need strengthening. Experienced employees receive additional training as part of an ongoing program to improve job performance.
Skills & Other Requirements
Correctional Officers must be physically fit and emotionally mature. They must be able to analyze situations accurately and to react quickly when necessary. Human relations skills are also important because officers are expected to supervise inmates with firmness, impartiality and tact.
Eligibility for employment as a State Correctional Officer is determined by a three-phase examination which consists of a video and written test, a medical evaluation including a physical abilities test and a thorough background investigation.
References
California Occupational Guide: #220
Related Occupations: Security Guards, Probation Officers & Parole Agents, Law Enforcement Occupations
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