Correctional Officer ; Statewide

Position: CORRECTIONAL OFFICER I (STATEWIDE)

Introduction

If you are looking for an exciting career in corrections with competitive pay, great benefits, retirement, and opportunities for advancement and professional growth, apply to become a Correctional Officer today. The Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) is seeking dedicated candidates for our entry‑level Correctional Officer I position. This recruitment is ongoing and continuous and offers a great way to begin a career with DPSCS.

Employees are promoted to Correctional Officer II after one year of service.

Position Overview

A Correctional Officer I is an entry‑level position responsible for the custody, security, and supervision of adult incarcerated individuals in a correctional facility. The role includes close supervision, no supervision of other correctional officers, and assignment to morning, evening, night, or rotating shifts.

Duties

Physical readiness and annual physical recertification are required. Officers must complete an annual recertification process that demonstrates the physical capabilities needed for defensive tactics, ensuring the safety of officers, staff, and residents.

• Attend an entrance level training program certified by the Maryland Corrections Training Commission.
• Exercise care, custody, and control of incarcerated individuals.
• Administer emergency medical assistance to incarcerated individuals and staff.
• Perform physically demanding tasks such as running, physical control, and lifting.
• Supervise incarcerated individuals participating in work, leisure activities, and formal programs.
• Work overtime as required by operational necessities and emergencies.
• Effectively communicate verbally and in writing with incarcerated individuals and staff.
• Analyze situations and problems and provide appropriate solutions.
• Direct incarcerated individuals' activities and maintain security in cell blocks, dining and work areas.
• Observe incarcerated individuals from observation towers, in corridors, or in visiting areas.
• Provide advice and guidance in assisting incarcerated individuals in adjusting to institutional rules and regulations.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

High School diploma or high school equivalency certificate acceptable to the Maryland State Board of Education as described in the Correctional Training Commission regulation.

Experience

None.

Special Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship or resident alien status.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Completed background investigation.
• Oral interview and physical examination.
• Employees hired or reinstated after July 1, 2016 must complete Entrance Level Firearms Training prescribed by the Maryland Corrections Training Commission and demonstrate proficiency in firearms.
• Must be available for 24‑hour call‑in.
• Subject to substance abuse testing.

Selection Process

The interview and written assessment process is virtual. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be scheduled for a virtual interview and written assessment. Upon successful completion, candidates are assigned to the Background Investigative Section for further processing. A recruit must complete the Entry Level Training Program at the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Academy. After graduation, individuals are assigned to facilities throughout the state of Maryland and may remain on the eligible list for two years.

Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Medical and dental coverage.
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave).
• Twenty‑year retirement and supplemental retirement options (401(k), 457(b)).
• State employee credit union membership.
• Hiring incentives: $5,000 total—$2,000 after training and $3,000 after probation; regional hiring bonus of $2,500 for selected facilities.
• Veteran recognition and support; eligibility for State Service credit for up to five years.
• Military leave of up to 15 days annually without loss of pay.

Location of Position

Western Maryland and Eastern Shore. Applicants should indicate counties willing to accept employment on their application.

Grade

CORR 0003

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