Correctional Officer I - Temporary (Southern State Correctional Facility)

Vermont; Springfield (VT); On-site; USD 38,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agency in Vermont is seeking Correctional Officers to join their team at the Southern State Correctional Facility. The role offers a unique 2-2-3 work schedule for a better work-life balance, emphasizing customer service and holistic care. Ideal candidates will hold a high school diploma or equivalent, along with the physical capability to perform duties. Multiple positions are available, with training provided to ensure success in this rewarding career.

Benefits

Predictable work schedules

Career advancement opportunities

Comprehensive training provided

Qualifications

• High school diploma or two years full-time work experience.
• Or one year of college coursework and one year of experience.
• Good physical condition is essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct security work within a correctional facility.
• Provide human services and perform leadership tasks.
• Manage potential high-stress situations.

Skills

Customer service

Holistic service

Strength-based relationships

Results orientation

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

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.

To the many benefits available through employment with the State of Vermont, Southern State Correctional Facility introduces the innovative 2-2-3 schedule to provide staff with a better work-life balance.

In a 2-2-3 rotation, you work two consecutive days, followed by two days off, and then work three consecutive days before having another two days off. This rotation repeats, providing regular rest periods while ensuring continuous coverage of operations. The schedule offers predictable hours, flexibility, and longer stretches of consecutive 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, avoiding long stretches without a break.
• Work a balanced day or night shift, with shifts evenly distributed to prioritize well-being.
• Have predictable rotations, making it easier to plan personal activities with a clear four-week cycle.
• Work fewer days per year, with only 180 workdays, leaving more time for personal life, relaxation, or travel.

All employees of the Agency of Human Services perform their functions adhering to four key practices: customer service, holistic service, strength-based relationships, and results orientation.

The Vermont Department of Corrections is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to equitable hiring and diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, disability, or any other protected characteristic. 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 (Southern State Correctional Facility) (Job Requisition #51771), is open to all State employees and external applicants.

For more information, contact [e-mail]. Multiple positions at the same location may be filled from this posting. Recruitment is ongoing, but specific vacancies vary.

Resumes are not accepted via email; apply online to be considered.

AHS BACKGROUND CHECKS: Candidates must pass background checks as per AHS Policy 4.02, including Vermont/national criminal record checks, DMV, and abuse registry checks, unless currently employed and seeking transfer, promotion, or re-employment rights.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent AND two (2) years of full-time work experience.

OR

One (1) year of college coursework AND one (1) year of full-time work experience.

OR

Two (2) years or more of college coursework.

Minimum Physical Requirements:

Good physical condition to perform essential functions, including donning a self-contained breathing apparatus and performing evacuation procedures. Compliance with OSHA standards, including CFR 1910.134(e), is required.

DOC PREA Requirements

Applicants must provide relevant information regarding past sexual abuse allegations or investigations. Previous employers may be contacted to verify this information.

Conviction History Requirements

Felony convictions or recent misdemeanor sanctions may require a waiver from the Corrections Commissioner. Apply and send applications directly to the hiring manager.

Environmental Factors

Work is primarily within a correctional facility, with potential high-stress and physical risk situations. Transportation of inmates outside the facility may be required. A valid driver’s license is necessary. Overtime and emergency duties are possible. Shift changes may occur based on facility needs.

Special Requirements

Overtime, weekend, and holiday work may be required. Attendance at annual mandated training is mandatory. Felony or recent misdemeanor convictions may disqualify candidates unless a waiver is obtained. Background checks are mandatory.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont promotes diversity and inclusion, ensuring fair employment practices without discrimination based on protected characteristics. Merit-based employment decisions are made, and retaliation is prohibited.