Correctional Officer (7 Vacancies)

County of Lancaster; United States; On-site; USD 55,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Employee assistance program

Job summary

County of Lancaster is seeking a Security Officer to manage care, custody and control of inmates, including transports and prison operations. Shifts run 12am–8am, 8am–4pm and 4pm–12am.

Applicants should have a High School Diploma or GED and complete required pre-employment checks. Strong observation and reporting skills are essential for maintaining safety and compliance.

Qualifications

• Must have High School Diploma or GED and pass pre-employment testing.
• Knowledge of security and law enforcement related equipment is required.
• Excellent observation, reporting and attention to detail are essential for this role.

Responsibilities

• Maintain inmate security and custody across prison operations.
• Perform searches of inmates, staff, vehicles and areas for contraband.
• Monitor and document activity, and prepare detailed incident reports.
• Assist with inmate transport and head counts as needed.
• Respond to emergencies using appropriate safety protocols.

Skills

Security procedures

Observation skills

Written reporting

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Handcuffs

Shackles

Security belt

Metal detectors

Job description

Starting Compensation: $61,360.00/Annually. Find job security and stability alongside a growing community and a team that supports you. Level up your career through a large network and specialty training.

Job Summary

Provides Care, Custody and Control related to Security and Treatment Services for daily inmate population. This covers both Prison Property/Jurisdiction, Inmate Transports and any duties assigned and/or associated with Prison Operations and/or Business other than the Prison location. Shifts may vary based on operational needs: 1st shift: 12a-8a; 2nd shift: 8a-4p; 3rd shift: 4p-12a.

Reporting Relationships

Reports directly to the Shift Supervisor, which is the on‑duty Sergeant or Lieutenant.

Essential Job Functions

• Knowledge of PA Code Title 37 Chapter 95 (County Correctional Institutions).
• Maintain regular attendance and punctuality related to assigned position and/or Post within the Prison as per Policy.
• Knowledge/usage of relevant equipment related to the Security/ Law Enforcement Field including, but not limited to Handcuffs, shackles, Security Belt, Spit Protective Shield/Net, Metal Detection Devices, Computer/ Mainsteam Computer Software, weapons (lethal/less lethal), etc.
• Searching inmates, prisoners, vehicles, all areas (urban yards; bay areas; storage areas; common areas), and conduct cell searches for valuables and contraband, such as but not limited to, weapons or drugs.
• Must maintain observation of inmates, staff and visitor activity, in person or on by Electronic Monitoring Equipment.
• Searching of Inmates, Staff, Contracted Service Providers or any other persons allowed as covered under Local/State/Federal Law that are on Prison Property.
• Searching of areas including but not limited to Inmate Housing Units, Cells, Urban Yards, Bay Areas, Storage Areas, Common Areas, Offices, Contracted Providers Areas, etc. for the purpose of locating and/or eliminating contraband such as Weapons, Drugs, Cell Phones, or any other type of Contraband as covered under Prison Policy or State Code/Law.
• Listening / Observation Techniques to detect and/or quell possible disturbances.
• Maintaining accurate written entries in Block Logs, etc. and preparing accurate and comprehensive/detailed reports.
• Ability to physically respond to emergency situations in any portion of the Prison and be able to utilize emergency equipment as needed (i.e., AED, Respiratory Protective Systems/Air Packs, Fire Extinguishers, or any other equipment deemed as emergency equipment).
• Ability to apply handcuffs, shackles, security belt and any other restraint devices utilized within the Prison on others.
• Be able to use weapons (lethal/less lethal), perform self defense techniques inclusive of defensive use of a baton as needed and applicable in association with proper Use of Force Guidelines established for the Prison in order to maintain discipline and order among the prison population as needed.
• Maintain qualification, carry and discharge a firearm in accordance with applicable Use of Force Guidelines for the Prison.
• Conduct a proper and accurate Inmate Head Count in accordance with LCP Policy/Standards to ensure each prisoners are accurately accounted for.
• Work in a non-climate control environment, indoors or outdoors, in all types of weather.
• Maintain good physical fitness, withstand long periods of standing/walking/ running, climbing up stairs, or sitting periodically for (8) eight hours or more.
• Must be able to work mandatory overtime as assigned.

Other Specific Tasks or Duties

• All COs must participate in training and may be eligible for special, temporary and/or provisional assignments and duties.
• Such assignments and duties include, but not limited to, transportation, maintenance, entrance control, public affairs, communications, key control, property, booking, gang intelligence and canteen management.
• Maintaining professionalism at all times.
• Other tasks as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or Equivalent Pre‑Employment qualification: Successfully completing Physical, Educational Testing, and Drug Screening. Must receive certification in OC use, and any other equipment required to be used. All must be carried on a daily basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar, orally and in writing. Proficiency in operating personal computer and associated software such as word, access, power point etc. Operating motor vehicles, Iris Scan/ Fingerprint, communication devices, door annunciating panels, opening and closing cell doors and gates either manually or electronically, and all other operations alike. Knowledge of proper self‑defense techniques and restraining of inmates. Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests.

Required Licenses/Certifications/Clearances

Valid State Drivers License with acceptable driving record in accordance with County Policy ChildLine clearance PREA Background Check Clean Criminal Background History.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

Ability to maintain good physical fitness, withstand long periods of standing, walking, running, climbing up stairs, or sitting periodically for (8) eight hours or more. Lifting emergency equipment more than fifty (50) pounds (e.g., Respiratory Protective Systems/Air Packs, fire extinguisher, and defibrillator) and performing assisted lifting of inmates. Must be able to hold up and drag a person or stunt dummy weighing 110lbs. The capability of performing acceptable levels of self‑defense techniques and restraint of assaultive inmates is mandatory. Must be able to withstand periods of high stress and mental pressure. This position has been identified as having the potential for exposure to Hepatitis B. Access to training and a voluntary vaccination against Hepatitis B is provided.

Benefits

• The County of Lancaster offers comprehensive benefits to our employees.
• Read more about our benefits here.
• The benefits package for full‑time employees, including paid time off, health insurance and flexible healthcare plans, ensures that you feel valued and supported in your role.
• With employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement and more, you'll have the resources you need to provide excellent service to the 550,000 residents of Lancaster County.
• With 1,600 full‑time employees and 300 part‑time employees spread across 40 departments, there are plenty of opportunities for growth and development within the county.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Lancaster County Government provides Equal Employment Opportunity for all persons regardless of race, religion, age, sex, national origin, genetic information or disability. The County also observes all applicable laws regarding Veterans status. The County reflects this action in all areas of employment and compensation practices and policies. Employment with the County is based upon the ability to perform the job as well as dependability and reliability once an individual is hired.

About Us

Working for Lancaster County offers not just a job, but a chance to thrive both professionally and personally. The benefits package for full‑time employees, including paid time off, health insurance and flexible healthcare plans, ensures that you feel valued and supported in your role.

With employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement and more, you'll have the resources you need to provide excellent service to the 550,000 residents of Lancaster County. With 1,600 full‑time employees and 300 part‑time employees spread across 40 departments, there are plenty of opportunities for growth and development within the county. Whether you're interested in human services, public safety, administration, or any other field, there's a place for you to make a difference and advance your career.

Lancaster County itself is a vibrant and diverse community, offering something for everyone. From the peaceful farmland to the bustling city and towns, there's always something new to discover. Whether it's exploring farmers markets, enjoying local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the rich history of the area, Lancaster County has endless opportunities for you and your family to learn, explore, and enjoy. Joining the team at Lancaster County means becoming part of a community dedicated to maintaining and improving this wonderful place we call home.