Correctional Officer

State of Indiana • Indianapolis, IN

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The Correctional Officer works as part of a team at the Indiana Women’s Prison, a maximum-security Indiana Department of Correction facility for adult females in Indianapolis. During typical 12-hour shifts, the officer maintains unit security and the safety of staff and incarcerated individuals while helping ensure daily activities and programs proceed on schedule. Officers work 85.75 hours per two-week pay period over seven shifts, including one weekend shift.

The position involves supervising incarcerated individuals and requires judgment, care, and constant vigilance. Work can be physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding, with potential threats of harm or injury. Officers respond to emergencies, assess when force may be necessary, and recognize suicidal behavior. Work generally follows departmental and institutional policies, though on-the-spot decisions may be needed when dealing with unruly or irate individuals. Weapons may be carried when assigned to tower duty, transportation, escape, or other special assignments.

The position starts at $22 per hour in base pay, plus $1 per hour in differential pay. Candidates with relevant experience may qualify for a higher base pay; overtime may also be earned. A degree is not required, but a high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Must be willing to travel, with reasonable accommodation.
• Must test negative on all drug screenings.
• Must be able to work with and around incarcerated individuals in accordance with the DOC mission statement.
• Must be able to work mandatory or voluntary overtime on any shift, up to 16 consecutive hours per day.
• Must be able to understand and properly use chemical agents.
• Must communicate effectively, including giving clear directions and completing conduct reports.
• Must have strong critical-thinking skills and apply them as needed.
• Must successfully complete personal protection training to continue employment.
• A high school diploma or High School Equivalency (HSE) is required; a degree is not required.
• Must be able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must be able to maintain vigilance for periods of up to 16 hours and react to emergencies.
• Must meet applicable physical standards demonstrated through fitness training and/or assessment.
• Must have keen observational and hearing skills and exercise discretion in firearm use and maintenance.

Nice To Haves

• Relevant experience may qualify candidates for a higher base pay.
• Veteran and law-enforcement candidates are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Maintain personal safety and the safety of staff and incarcerated individuals.
• Monitor assigned areas at intervals to ensure security, conduct counts, and check the security of buildings and grounds.
• Follow and ensure compliance with established security procedures.
• Manage incarcerated individuals in work details, including cleanup of institutional grounds and buildings.
• Escort incarcerated individuals to and from locations for food, medicines, work assignments, and recreation.
• Keep records and prepare reports regarding incarcerated individuals’ movements, activities, and rule violations.
• Search incarcerated individuals’ housing areas and visitors for unauthorized items.
• Maintain workday attendance at assigned worksites.
• Supervise incarcerated individuals with judgment and care.
• Respond to emergency situations, including assessing the need to use force and recognizing suicidal behavior.

Benefits

• Three medical plan options, including prescription coverage, plus vision and dental plans.
• Wellness Rewards Program with gift card rewards for completed wellness activities.
• Health savings account with bi-weekly state contributions.
• Deferred compensation 457B account with employer match.
• Two fully funded pension plan options.
• Leave policies including paid New Parent Leave, Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers, community service leave, and combined vacation, personal, and sick leave.
• 12 paid holidays, or 14 in election years.
• Education Reimbursement Program.
• Group life insurance.
• Referral Bonus program.
• Employee assistance program with covered behavioral health visits.
• Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
• Free parking for most positions.
• Free LinkedIn Learning access.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED