CORRECTIONS OFFICER

State of Arkansas; Newport (AR); On-site; USD 51,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Arkansas is seeking a Corrections Officer at Grimes Unit in Newport to maintain inmate security and enforce facility rules. The role requires strong observation, reporting, and physical readiness within a state correctional facility.

Starting salary is $50,845 with a range up to $75,251. A high school diploma or equivalent is required, with emphasis on de-escalation, detailed incident reporting, and adherence to safety protocols.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to manage high-tension situations calmly and effectively.
• Willingness to perform security duties and follow protocols.

Responsibilities

• Supervise security and conduct of inmates in cells, group meetings, meals, recreation, visits and work assignments.
• Maintain perimeter security and monitor for disturbances or escape attempts.
• Perform security checks of buildings, shakedowns, searches, log incidents and escort inmates to events.
• Attend shift briefings and communicate issues to improve security.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

De-escalation

Security monitoring

Inmate reports

Physical fitness

Decision making

Self-defense

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Position Information

Position Number: 22112633

County: Jackson

Posting End Date: 12/31/2026

Anticipated Starting Salary: $50,845.00

Location: Grimes 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.

Job Series

Corrections Officers - Career-path

Classification

Corrections Officer

Class Code

SCO05P

Pay Grade

LES02

Salary Range

$50,845 - $75,251

Job Summary

The Corrections Officer is responsible for maintaining security and overseeing the work and behavior of inmates in a correctional facility. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.

Primary Responsibilities

Supervise the security and conduct of inmates in cells, during group meetings, meals, recreation, visitations, and work assignments. Maintain perimeter security by monitoring the facility for escapees and/or disturbances. Perform security checks of buildings and grounds, including shakedowns and searches of inmates. Maintain logs for work release inmates and write incident reports. Escort inmates to visitations, court, and work assignments. Attend shift briefings to discuss incidents, problems, and weak points in security. Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge And Skills

Ability to manage and de-escalate high-tension situations calmly and effectively. Proficient in monitoring behaviors and identifying potential security risks. Monitor inmate activities and write detailed reports. Capability to perform physically demanding tasks, including emergency responses. Quick and sound decision-making in high-stress or emergency’s. Exercise self-defense tactics when necessary.

Minimum Qualifications

The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A 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.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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.