Correctional Officer I (Sterling)

The Correctional Officer I (CO I) position maintains the safety and security of Colorado Department of Corrections’ (CDOC) prison facilities throughout the state. Correctional Officers support the CDOC Mission, Vision and Values with integrity and commitment while preparing inmates for community reentry.

Correctional Officers respectfully communicate with inmates and their families, coworkers, supervisors, managers and the public; presenting a professional and dependable workforce. Positions must cooperate with other staff members and work as a cohesive team, while managing a diverse inmate population. Positions maintain the safety and security of the general public, staff and inmates.

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Work directly with inmates in a locked facility;
• Monitor and control access to the facility and restricted areas;
• Man an armed post (this requires annual firearms certification);
• Monitor facility perimeter, detain unidentified pedestrians and/or vehicles;
• Operate a variety of mechanical doors, security devices, equipment and alarms;
• Control movement of inmates throughout the daily schedule;
• Escort and transport inmates in authorized state vehicles;
• Monitor visiting areas;
• Conduct formal, informal and emergency counts;
• Cross check and maintain movement logs;
• Conduct searches for contraband (this may include canine, metal detector, pat, perimeter, strip and vehicle searches);
• Inspect facility and cells to maintain health, safety and sanitation standards;
• Inspect inmate mail and property;
• Utilize proper protocols when responding to emergency situations, such as fights, medical emergencies, fires and escapes;
• Follow established tool and key control, ensure proper storage and documentation;
• Attend roll call;
• Communicate pertinent information to coworkers and supervisors.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION

High School Diploma or a GED certificate.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

• Strong work ethic, accountability, integrity and dependability;
• Sound judgment, reasoning and decision making skills;
• Self control, strong sense of ability to work in stressful situations;
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively cooperate with other staff members and inspire teamwork;
• Excellent customer service and attention to detail;
• Ability to read and comprehend the English language;
• Ability to effectively communicate fluently in English both verbally and in writing;
• Ability to visually observe and audibly hear in order to observe changes, inappropriate activity, hazards or potential security breaches and verbally communicate pertinent information;
• Ability to visually observe and monitor inmate whereabouts and maintain an accurate count in assigned areas;
• Ability to verbally communicate clearly and willingness to do so respectfully.

In addition to a great agency and rewarding, meaningful work, we offer:

• Distinctive career advancement opportunities throughout the state system;
• Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401K and 457 plans. Member Contribution Rates. Correctional Officers I-IV qualify as “Safety Officers” and are eligible for increased PERA benefits;
• Medical and dental health plans;
• Short and long term disability coverage;
• Paid life insurance;
• 11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave;
• Wellness program, tuition reimbursement, training opportunities and more.