Correctional Officer I - Temporary (Northwest State Correctional Facility)

State of Vermont; St. Albans (VT); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking state agency is seeking dedicated individuals to join their team as Correctional Officers. This role offers a unique blend of security work and human services, with extensive training provided to ensure success. The innovative 2-2-3 work schedule promotes a healthy work-life balance, allowing staff to enjoy predictable hours and ample time off. Candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must possess the physical ability to perform essential duties. This position not only offers a rewarding career path but also emphasizes diversity and inclusion within the workplace.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent plus two years of work experience.
• Physical ability to perform essential functions including emergency procedures.

Responsibilities

• Work in a correctional facility, managing high-stress situations.
• Transport inmates outside the facility as required.

Skills

Customer Service

Holistic Service

Strength-Based Relationships

Results Orientation

Physical Ability

Education

High School Diploma

Two Years of College Coursework

Job description

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 six 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.

The start date for this position is based on your availability. Positions vary, and we operate on a 2-shift schedule, 6am - 6pm and 6pm - 6am. Shifts and schedules are assigned by seniority first and may be determined by facility needs.

Work Schedule and Benefits

Northwest State Correctional Facility is introducing an innovative 2-2-3 schedule to provide staff with a better work-life balance. In this rotation, you work two consecutive days, followed by two days off, then three consecutive days, before having another two days off. This cycle repeats, ensuring continuous coverage and offering predictable work hours, flexibility, and longer stretches of days off, including a 3-day weekend every other week.

With our 2-2-3 schedule, you will:

• Work just 7 out of every 14 days instead of 10 as in a traditional schedule.
• Enjoy regular two- or three-day periods off, reducing long stretches without a break.
• Work balanced day or night shifts, prioritizing your well-being.
• Have predictable rotations, making personal planning easier.
• Work fewer days per year, with only 180 workdays, leaving more time for personal activities.

Employment Practices

All employees adhere to key practices: customer service, holistic service, strength-based relationships, and results orientation. The Vermont Department of Corrections is an equal-opportunity employer, committed to diversity and non-discrimination in employment. Women, people of color, bilingual and bicultural individuals, LGBTQ+ persons, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Who May Apply

This position, Correctional Officer I - Temporary (Northwest State Correctional Facility) (Job Requisition #51768), is open to all State employees and external applicants. For more information, contact [e-mail]. Multiple positions may be filled from this posting; apply online as resumes are not accepted via email.

Background and Regulatory Requirements

Candidates must pass background checks, including criminal record, DMV, and abuse registry checks, in accordance with AHS Policy 4.02. Previous employment involving substantiated sexual abuse allegations may impact eligibility. Applicants must also provide relevant information for DOC PREA requirements and may need a waiver for felony or recent misdemeanor convictions.

Environmental Factors

Work primarily occurs within a correctional facility, often in high-stress situations with potential for physical injury. Transportation of inmates outside the facility may be required. A valid driver’s license is necessary. Overtime, emergency duties, and shift changes are possible.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent plus two years of full-time work experience, or one year of college plus one year of full-time work, or two years of college coursework. Physical ability to perform essential functions, including donning a respirator and evacuation procedures, is required.

Preferred and Special Requirements

Experience in corrections or military service is preferred. Overtime, weekend, and holiday work are conditions of employment. Candidates must pass background checks and meet physical requirements. Felony convictions generally disqualify applicants unless a waiver is obtained.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The State of Vermont values diversity and is committed to providing an inclusive environment. Discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics is prohibited.