STATE OF CONNECTICUT EXECUTIVE BRANCH JOBS

Correction Officer

Recruitment #230915-2259CO-001

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Introduction


Welcome to an exciting opportunity to make a difference as a Correction Officer in the State of Connecticut, Department of Correction (DOC). We invite you to join our dedicated team as we strive to ensure safety and security within our correctional facilities while positively impacting the lives of those under our supervision.

If you are looking for a rewarding career that challenges you to be your best and contribute to the welfare of our communities and the State of Connecticut, we encourage you to explore this opportunity further. Whether you are just starting your career or seeking a new path in the field of corrections, we welcome your application.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU
  • Starting Correction Officer Cadet Salary: $47,134/year - $1,805.91 bi-weekly;
  • Following promotion to Correction Officer: $52,371.00/yearly - $2,006.56 bi-weekly;
  • Industry-leading health benefits, including medical and dental coverage;
  • Comprehensive pension plan, including a 25-year Hazardous Duty retirement;
  • Paid training;
  • Competitive market salary plan;
  • Professional growth and development for promotional opportunities;
  • Pride in serving the citizens of local communities and the State of Connecticut!
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS AND INCENTIVES FOR CORRECTION OFFICERS
  • Generous vacation, sick leave, and personal time off;
  • 13 Paid holidays and holiday compensatory time;
  • Tuition reimbursement and opportunities for continued education and training;
  • Career advancement opportunities within the Department of Correction;
  • Retirement savings plans, including a 401(k) and a 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan;
  • Health and wellness programs, including employee assistance programs and fitness centers.
CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
  • Career Progression: Correctional Lieutenant > Correctional Captain > Correctional Deputy Warden;
  • Administrative Roles: Opportunities for assignments in areas such as training, policy development, or human resources;
  • Specialized Units: Joining K9 teams, Security Division, Tactical Response Units, or other specialized teams;
  • Programs & Treatment: Correctional Counselor > Correctional Counselor Supervisor > Correctional Deputy Warden.
POSITION HIGHLIGHTS
  • Correction Officers work a base schedule of 36.25 hours per week;
  • Candidates applying to the position of Correction Officer will need to take and pass the Correction Officer Physical Ability Test (COPAT) designed to evaluate their ability to perform essential physical tasks performed by Correction Officers;
  • Facility and shift assignments are solely at the discretion and based on the needs of the agency. Candidates will have the opportunity to place their name on a transfer list after the required training and working test period;
  • If selected for appointment as a Correction Officer, candidates are required to pass a pre-employment physical, undergo an extensive background check and attend our training academy in Cheshire, Connecticut for their first 14 weeks of employment.
See EXAMPLES OF DUTIES section below for more information.

OUR MISSION & GUIDING PRINCIPALS
The State of Connecticut, Department of Correction (DOC) shall strive to be a global leader in progressive correctional practices and partnered re-entry initiatives to support responsive evidence-based practices aligned to law-abiding and accountable behaviors. Safe and security shall be a priority component of this responsibility as it pertains to staff, victims, citizens and offenders. This includes:
  • Appropriate and proper assessment of every incoming offender; 
  • Individual programming, education and job training for offenders; 
  • Shared economic, community, social and collaborative partnerships through research and best practices.
            

Selection Plan

The Correction Officer hiring process is extensive and designed to ensure that selected candidates possess the necessary qualifications, skills, and commitment to serve as effective Correction Officers within the Connecticut Department of Correction (DOC). The selection process may be used for up to 18 months to fill future Correction Officer vacancies.

1. Application Period: 
  • To complete an application, select the "Apply Online" button below, complete all required fields, and officially submit to the State of Connecticut by the deadline.
  • Candidates who took part in last year's Correction Officer recruitment process but were not selected for hire, must re-apply to this job posting to be considered for future opportunities in the title of Correction Officer.
  • For applicants on active military duty, special accommodations may be made at the time of the application filing period. Documentation showing out-of-state deployment will be required. Please contact DAS.SHRM@ct.gov for further assistance.
  • Due to the large volume of applications, please do not call or email to confirm receipt or status of your application. If your application submits successfully, you will receive a pop-up confirmation in addition to an email confirmation, which is saved in your applicant portal.
  • For questions pertaining to this recruitment, please contact the Department of Correction at DOC-HR-CO-PROCESS@ct.gov.
  • Please ensure that your application is complete prior to submitting. Candidates who submit an untimely, incomplete, or inaccurate application will not be considered for this employment opportunity.
        2. Referral Questions: During the application filing period, applicants will be required to respond to a set of referral questions. These questions are designed to assess candidates' abilities and skills related to the Correction Officer position. Applicants must respond to each question to complete their application successfully.

        3. Correction Officer Physical Ability Test (COPAT): Anticipated October/November 2023
        After the completion of the application period, eligible candidates will be invited to take the Physical Abilities Test, known as COPAT. The COPAT evaluates candidates' physical fitness and their ability to perform essential physical tasks required in the role of a Correction Officer. Please do not call or email regarding COPAT scheduling, a notice with scheduling information will be sent to candidates' personal email addresses and JobAps personal status boards in the weeks following the application period.

        After Successful Completion of the COPAT, candidates will be scheduled for the Interview Component of the process. During this appointment, candidates will participate in three elements:
        • Application Review: Candidates will meet individually with a Correctional Lieutenant to ensure their application is thoroughly complete and all required documents have been provided. During this stage, candidates will have the opportunity to ask questions about the position.
        • Written Assessment: As part of the Correction Officer process, candidates will undergo a written assessment. The purpose is to evaluate candidates' written communication skills, which are essential for producing accurate and comprehensive reports while working at a correctional facility.
        • Oral Interview: During the oral interview, candidates will be asked job-related questions, and a panel of subject matter experts will evaluate their responses. The interview will assess candidates' interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and communication capabilities.
        4. Background Investigation: Selected candidates will undergo a comprehensive background investigation, which includes reviewing employment history, education, training, criminal records, and motor vehicle history. This investigation ensures that candidates meet the high standards of character and integrity required to be a Correction Officer.

        5. Medical Evaluation: Candidates who successfully complete the previous stages will undergo a comprehensive medical examination, including drug screening. This evaluation ensures that candidates are in good health and physically fit to perform the duties of a Correction Officer.
        The Connecticut Department of Correction is committed to ensuring a fair and thorough selection process that identifies dedicated individuals capable of upholding the department's mission and values while serving the State of Connecticut.

        CORRECTION OFFICER TRAINING PROGRAM
        The Correction Officer Training Program is a crucial component of preparing new Correction Officers for their roles within the Connecticut Department of Correction (DOC). The training program is designed to provide comprehensive instruction and hands-on experience to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the duties of a Correction Officer effectively and safely. 

                    
        Key aspects of the Correction Officer Training Program include:

        1. Duration: The training program typically spans fourteen (14) weeks, during which new appointees are referred to as "Correction Officer Cadets." This duration may vary slightly depending on specific facility needs and program adjustments.

        2. Location: The training is conducted at designated training facilities. In this case, the training is held primarily at the Maloney Center of Training and Staff Development in Cheshire, CT. DOC’s certified training staff are  equipped to provide a realistic and controlled environment for various training scenarios. 

        3. Curriculum: The training curriculum covers a wide range of topics essential to becoming a successful Correction Officer. Some of the core subjects include:
        • Prison environment and correctional practices
        • Inmate supervision and safety techniques
        • Interpersonal communication skills and conflict resolution
        • Report writing and documentation
        • Use of force policies and procedures
        • Behavior management and de-escalation techniques
        • Legal issues and procedures in a correctional setting
        • Security procedures and emergency response protocols
        • Ethics and professional conduct
        • Visiting procedures and facility regulations
        4. Training Methods: The training program employs a combination of classroom instruction, practical exercises, and on-the-job training. Correction Officer Cadets receive theoretical knowledge in a classroom setting and then apply that knowledge through hands-on exercises and simulations. The program also emphasizes practical training with peer mentors, allowing Cadets to observe and participate in real correctional scenarios under guidance.

        5. Physical Training: As Correction Officers must be physically fit and capable of handling challenging situations, the training program includes physical fitness assessments and activities to improve strength, stamina, and agility. The program prepares Cadets for the physical demands they will encounter while on duty.

        6. Performance Evaluations: Throughout the training period, Cadets are continually assessed and evaluated on their progress and performance. These evaluations help identify areas for improvement and ensure that each Cadet meets the necessary standards to become a successful Correction Officer.

        7. Graduation and Appointment: Upon successful completion of the fourteen-week training program, Correction Officer Cadets are promoted to the rank of Correction Officer and officially appointed to their respective positions within the Department of Correction. Graduates will be assigned to correctional facilities based on the needs of the agency.

        The Correction Officer Training Program is rigorous and demanding, as it prepares individuals to fulfill critical roles in ensuring the safety and security of correctional facilities and the well-being of inmates and staff. Successful completion of the training program is a significant milestone in the career of a Correction Officer and marks the beginning of their service to the State of Connecticut.

        PURPOSE OF JOB CLASS (NATURE OF WORK)

        In a Department of Correction facility this class is accountable for the confinement, safety, control and monitoring of sentenced and/or un-sentenced inmates and security of the facility.

        EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

        Performs either a concentration or combination of the following functions, depending upon whether duty is on fixed or rotating post assignment:

        SECURITY: Performs periodic head count; conducts periodic search of all areas available to inmates; checks all incoming visitors and/or packages and/or mail for contraband; performs pat or strip searches of inmates as needed; secures access points to assigned area; checks area for fire safety and emergency evacuation procedures; monitors all movement through assigned area; transports inmates to and from courts, hospitals, half way houses, other institutions and directed destinations.

        INMATE CONTROL: Maintains log of inmate movement into and out of unit and verifies and/or authorizes movement through written (pass) or phone communication with sending and/or receiving staff for such activities as work assignments, counseling sessions, visitors, clinic and dental appointments, court appointments, meals, etc.; directs inmate access to rooms, recreation areas, dining areas, shower and telephone facilities, special group meetings and insures transition is orderly and timely; monitors inmates in above activities and insures discipline and security are maintained; evaluates and reports on inmate performance; participates in directed treatment activities as required; may be required to physically restrain inmates.

        ADMINISTRATION: Sets up and/or maintains records relating to admissions, court appearances, property, financial assets, medication, disciplinary actions, living assignments, work assignments, key control, use of force and/or restraint, punitive segregation, etc. in accordance with regulations; insures admissions, transfers and discharges are accompanied by appropriate paperwork; prepares reports and documentation relative to assigned activities; orders and dispenses supplies for assigned area.

        COMMUNICATION: Dispenses and collects commissary slips and orders; screens visitors to ascertain if authorized and grants or denies admission on judgment of perceived security risk; responds to emergency requirements in event of fire, escape or call for assistance; handles incidents and crisis situations involving inmates through use of effective oral communication skills; interfaces with related law enforcement personnel; may schedule inmate appointments with counselors, clinics, clergy and school; performs related duties as required.

        KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY

        Considerable interpersonal skills; oral and written communication skills; considerable ability to understand departmental and institutional policies and regulations and apply them fairly and consistently; considerable ability to analyze situations quickly and accurately and adopt an effective course of action; considerable ability to work under pressure; ability to utilize computer software.

        MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

        Graduation from high school or certification of having passed the General Educational Development (GED) certification examination by the closing date on the job posting.  

        PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

        Candidates who demonstrate some or all of the following will be given preference:
        • Experience communicating effectively with diverse groups, including persons of various ethnic, racial groups, religions and socio-economic levels;
        • Related education or work experience;
        • A stable work history;
        • Ability to follow directions;
        • History of reliable attendance; 
        • Military experience;
        • Experience working rotating shifts.

        SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

        1. Incumbents in this class must have reached their 21st birthday by the closing date on the job posting. 
        2. Incumbents in this class are required to successfully complete a formal training course in correctional work to develop the knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the class.
        3. Incumbents in this class may be required to possess and retain either a valid Motor Vehicle Operator’s license, a Commercial Driver’s license or both.
        4. Incumbents in this class may be required to travel.

        CHARACTER REQUIREMENTS

        In addition to the checking of references and of facts stated in the application, a thorough background investigation of each candidate may be made before persons are certified for appointment.

        PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

        1. Incumbents in this class must have general good health, be free from any disease or injury which would impair health or usefulness and possess and retain sufficient physical strength, stamina, agility, endurance and visual and auditory acuity required to perform all the duties of the class.
        2. A physical fitness assessment will be required of all applicants.
        3. A comprehensive medical examination, including a controlled substance screening, will be required of all applicants upon a conditional offer of employment.

        WORKING CONDITIONS

        Incumbents in this class may be exposed to significant stress of confinement within a dangerous and volatile prison population and to considerable danger of injury from assaultive and/or abusive inmates and disagreeable conditions.

        Conclusion

        AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

        The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.





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