Department: Corrections
Position Type: Permanent
Schedule Type: Full Time
Hourly Rate: $18.99
Overview
Corrections professionals in Vermont work in a system that believes in the basics of human change. Intensive training prepares entry-level Correctional Officers for a career that blends security work, human services, and leadership opportunities. This work is rewarding on many levels and draws on a wide range of skills. Many of our permanent positions are filled by promoting temporary employees, so external candidates are encouraged to apply to both temporary and permanent job openings.
Training
The start of your career in Corrections begins with a week at the correctional facility observing the duties and role of a correctional officer. Then, the next five weeks of instruction are at the Vermont Correctional Academy, where you will learn the core skill set of a corrections professional. After graduation, you will participate in eighty hours of onsite training supervised by staff at your new facility.
Hourly rates within the Classified or Temporary Bargaining Unit Pay Plan will change effective January 5, 2020. At that time, the starting rate (Step 1) for this job opening will be $18.99 per hour.
Who May Apply
This position, Correctional Officer I, is open to all State employees and external applicants.
Class Definition
Correctional Officer I jobs are with the Department of Corrections at various locations throughout the state. Vacancies may occur in Burlington, Rutland, St. Albans, St. Johnsbury, Newport, and Springfield.
Incumbents in this class are responsible for the supervision, custody, treatment, and training of inmates confined in a correctional facility. Duties are performed under the supervision of higher-ranking staff and in accordance with operational procedures of the assigned facility. All employees of the Agency of Human Services perform their respective functions adhering to four key practices: customer service, holistic service, strengths-based relationships and results orientation.
Environmental Factors
Duties are performed largely within a correctional facility and in the immediate area of inmates. High-stress situations are predictable, even frequent. The potential of physical assault or injury is present. Transportation and supervision of inmates outside of the correctional facility may be required. A valid motor vehicle operator's license is necessary. Overtime and emergency duty are unpredictable. Shift assignments may change in accordance with the needs of the facility.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
High school graduation or equivalent AND two (2) years or more full-time work experience.
OR
One (1) year or more of college-level course work AND one (1) year or more of full-time work experience.
OR
Two (2) years or more of college-level course work.
Minimum Physical Requirements:
Adequate physical condition to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. As a Correctional Officer, it is important to understand that one of the essential tasks associated with the job is the ability to don a self-contained breathing apparatus and perform evacuation procedures, potentially including search and rescue functions. The Department of Corrections must adhere to OSHA standards that relate to the use of such devices, including CFR 1910.134(e), "Medical Evaluation," which states: "Employers must provide a medical evaluation to determine each employee's fitness to wear a respirator."
Preferred Qualifications
Experience working in a correctional setting
Military experience
Special Requirements
Overtime work is required to maintain safe staffing levels and is considered a condition of employment. The ability to work overtime as required is considered an essential function of this job class. Additionally, work on weekends and holidays may be required. Must attend and pass annual mandated training.
The Department of Corrections does not hire anyone who has been convicted of a felony without a waiver from the Commissioner of Corrections. Any person under supervision or sanctioned for a misdemeanor conviction within the past five (5) years is likewise ineligible for employment.
Candidates must pass a background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.
Total Compensation
As a State employee, you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:
- 80% State paid medical premium
- Dental Plan at no cost for employees and their families
- Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
- Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
- Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan; many jobs also allow for a flexible schedule
- Low-cost group life insurance
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Incentive-based Wellness Program
- Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program
Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of Vermont is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applications from women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people from diverse cultural backgrounds are encouraged.