Corrections Officer - Experienced

St. Louis County•Buzz Westfall Justice Center - Clayton, MO

11d•Onsite

About The Position

Are you an experienced corrections professional ready to take the next step in your career? Do you thrive in environments where sound judgment, leadership, and integrity are essential? At St. Louis County Justice Services, you will draw on your proven background in correctional operations and inmate supervision to help maintain safety, order, and accountability within the facility. Your experience will not only support daily operations but also position you as a mentor and leader for staff, guiding teams in best practices, professional development, and effective decision-making. This role is vital to public safety and requires strong leadership, clear communication, and the ability to model the professionalism expected throughout the organization.

Requirements

High School diploma or GED equivalent required.
Previous experience as a corrections officer, with demonstrated ability to apply sound judgment and operational knowledge in a correctional environment, is required.
Clear police record that is free of felony convictions. Misdemeanors have to be approved for hire by the Director of Justice Services.
Ability to leverage prior corrections experience to mentor and support less-experienced officers, model professionalism, and contribute to a culture of safety and accountability.
Strong interpersonal and conflict-management skills with the ability to remain calm and decisive under stress.
Proven capability to meet the physical demands of the position, including extensive standing, walking, stair climbing, operating emergency equipment, bending, stooping, and continuously wearing an equipment belt.
Advanced observational awareness and the ability to detect potential disturbances through attentive listening, experience-based assessment, and situational judgment.
Strong written communication skills, including the ability to coach others on documentation accuracy and report preparation.
Ability to work mandatory overtime and any assigned shift, including weekends and holidays.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team, with a demonstrated history of contributing to team success, modeling best practices, and supporting peer development.
Some positions may require a valid driver's license.

Nice To Haves

Possession of relevant certifications, specialized accreditations, current instructor credentials, and other qualifying achievements.

Responsibilities

Monitor and control inmate activities while applying advanced operational knowledge to identify safety risks.
Oversee and lead daily inmate routines, including meals, recreation, and work assignments. Model effective supervision techniques and mentor new officers on maintaining authority, structure, and professionalism.
Respond promptly and effectively to emergencies or disturbances, using your experience to assess situations, lead coordinated responses.
Prepare accurate reports and logs related to inmate behavior, incidents, and daily operations. Offer support to junior staff on completing thorough documentation in accordance with facility requirements.
Interact professionally with inmates, staff, and visitors, demonstrating effective communication strategies. Serve as a resource for officers learning how to manage difficult conversations or resolve conflicts constructively.
Implement and model best-practice safety procedures to protect staff and inmates. Lead by example during drills, training, and daily operations.