CORRECTIONS CAPTAIN

State of Arkansas; New Port (MD); On-site; USD 74,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Arkansas Department of Corrections seeks to fill a Corrections Captain role at the McPherson Unit in Newport. The position supervises corrections staff, oversees security operations, enforces policies, and maintains a secure environment for staff and inmates.

The role requires strong leadership, crisis management, and knowledge of corrections laws, with a focus on training and continuous improvement of procedures.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent with four years in correctional security or law enforcement.
• Three years in a supervisory capacity.
• Knowledge of state and federal corrections laws and policies.

Responsibilities

• Supervise correctional officers and staff to ensure facility safety and security.
• Develop and enforce policies to maintain order and discipline.
• Conduct inspections and audits to identify risks and non-compliance.
• Respond to emergencies, providing leadership during critical events.
• Oversee training and professional development of staff.
• Prepare reports on inmate behavior, incidents, and discipline.
• Collaborate with law enforcement and stakeholders to enhance safety.
• Investigate inmate grievances and staff misconduct, implement corrective actions.
• Manage daily operations including inmate movement and housing assignments.
• Attend meetings to discuss security issues and policy updates.

Skills

Leadership

Security operations

Crisis management

Inmate management

Policy compliance

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Position Number: 22112427
County: Jackson
Posting End Date: 9/18/2026
Anticipated Starting Salary: $74,442.99
Location: McPherson Unit - Newport

The mission of the Department of Corrections is to be a public safety resource for Arkansas families by providing professional management solutions and evidence-based rehabilitative initiatives for offenders.

All DOC positions are designated as Safety Sensitive Positions and are subject to random drug testing pursuant to the Secretarial Directive governing Personnel Drug Testing. Medical marijuana usage, as defined in Amendment 93 of the Arkansas Constitution, prohibits Personnel in a Safety-Sensitive Position from the use of medical marijuana even if they are qualifying patient under the amendment and/or hold a registry identification card. Department Personnel are prohibited from the use or possession of a medicinal marijuana card pursuant to this policy and state law.

Position Information

Job Series: Corrections Officers - Competitive

Classification: Corrections Captain

Class Code: SCO01C

Pay Grade: LES06

Salary Range: $74,443 - $110,175

Job Summary

The Corrections Captain oversees the security operations and management of correctional facilities. This role supervises correctional staff, ensures compliance with policies and procedures, and maintains a safe and secure environment for staff and inmates.

Primary Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate the activities of correctional officers and other staff to ensure the safety and security of the facility.
• Develop, implement, and enforce policies and procedures to maintain order and discipline within the institution.
• Conduct regular inspections and audits of the facility to identify and address security risks and non-compliance issues.
• Respond to emergencies and incidents, providing leadership and direction to staff during critical situations.
• Oversee the training and professional development of correctional staff, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge.
• Prepare and maintain accurate reports and records related to inmate behavior, incidents, and disciplinary actions.
• Collaborate with other law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and stakeholders to enhance public safety and rehabilitation efforts.
• Conduct investigations into inmate grievances, staff misconduct, and security breaches, implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Monitor and manage the daily operations of the facility, including inmate movement, housing assignments, and program participation.
• Attend meetings and briefings to discuss security issues, operational updates, and policy changes.

Knowledge and Skills

• Extensive knowledge of correctional facility operations, security systems, and inmate management practices.
• In-depth understanding of state and federal laws governing corrections, as well as the policies and procedures of the Arkansas Department of Corrections.
• Familiarity with crisis management and emergency response protocols in a correctional setting.
• Knowledge of inmate rehabilitation programs, education initiatives, and vocational training as they relate to offender reintegration.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to motivate and guide staff in a high-stress environment.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to effectively communicate with staff, inmates, and external stakeholders.
• Ability to analyze complex situations and make informed decisions quickly and efficiently, especially in emergency scenarios.
• Ability to maintain control and security within a correctional facility, ensuring adherence to regulations and standards.
• Ability to work under pressure, particularly during crises, and make sound decisions that prioritize the safety of staff and inmates.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities, ensuring that operational needs are met while maintaining high standards of security and order.

Minimum Qualifications

The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma, plus four years of experience in correctional security or law enforcement, including three years in a supervisory capacity.

Licensure/Certifications

Valid Arkansas driver’s license. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.