Correctional Officer

Salary : $49,920.00 - $69,326.40 Annually
Location : Fort Madison - 52627 - Lee County, IA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 26-03120
Agency: 242 Corrections - Iowa State Penitentiary (Ft Madison)
Opening Date: 05/20/2026
Closing Date: 8/18/2026 11:59 PM Central
LinkedIn Tag: #LI-POST
Point of Contact: View email address on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io


Job Description
Correctional Officer - State of Iowa Department of Corrections

Are you ready for more than just a job? How about a career that challenges you, shapes lives, and contributes to the safety and security of our communities? The State of Iowa Department of Corrections is on the lookout for dedicated and passionate individuals to join our team as Correctional Officers. This is more than a career; it's a calling to make a positive impact on the lives of those incarcerated while safeguarding the integrity of our correctional facilities.

Position Overview: As a Correctional Officer, you'll be the backbone of the correctional system, balancing the crucial mission of security with the opportunity to help individuals reform and reintegrate into society. This role is not only challenging but immensely rewarding, offering the chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in your care.

Training and Compensation: Embark on a journey where new Correctional Officers earn a full-time salary during training, receiving comprehensive instruction to equip them for success. The State of Iowa offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in both the private and public sectors, ensuring you're well taken care of.

Responsibilities:

As a Correctional Officer, you will:

• Observe and document incarcerated individual behavior to ensure effective security.
• Utilize behavioral techniques to facilitate behavior change and foster problem-solving skills.
• Conduct security checks, patrols, and inspections to maintain safe and secure correctional facilities.
• Instruct incarcerated individuals in rules, policies, procedures, and expectations for successful adaptation to life within an institution.
• Interact with the general public, visitors, and victims with professionalism and empathy.
• Maintain logs, prepare reports, and enter information into the DOC electronic record system.

Skills Required Include:

• Social Perceptiveness - Be aware of others' reactions and understand why they react as they do.
• Active Listening - Give full attention to what others are saying, ask questions, and seek to understand points being made.
• Monitoring - Assess performance to make improvements or take corrective action.
• Coordination - Adjust actions in relation to others' actions.
• Judgment and Decision Making - Consider costs and benefits to choose the most appropriate actions.
• Critical Thinking - Use logic and reasoning to identify strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions.
• Complex Problem Solving - Identify complex problems and evaluate options to implement solutions.
• Speaking - Convey information effectively.

As a State of Iowa Employee, you will also receive a robust benefits package including:

• Paid Time Off: Enjoy vacation, paid holidays, and sick leave with no limits on sick leave accrual.
• Great Benefits: Excellent Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Package.
• Retirement Plan: IPERS Retirement package and an option for a deferred compensation plan.
• Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and dependent care).
• Life Insurance: Free Life Insurance.
• Support: Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs.

Join Us: If you're ready for a career that's both challenging and fulfilling, apply today to become a Correctional Officer with the State of Iowa Department of Corrections. Make a difference in the lives of others and contribute to the safety and well-being of our communities. Your journey begins here.

Note: The Iowa Department of Corrections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
E-Verify and Right to Work
The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit

Minimum Qualification Requirements


Graduation from high school, GED, or equivalency.

For additional information, please click on this .

Additional Qualification Requirements


All applicants must be able to successfully pass the following:

• Psychological tests
• A background investigation check.
• A post-offer health screen administered by an institutional physician.
• A urinalysis screen for drugs.
• All new employee training during the probationary period, including local orientation, new employee orientation, and emergency preparedness training.
• Designated positions in this job class require applicants to obtain a Commercial Driver's License and endorsements within a period of time as determined by the appointing authority at the time of hire.

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyGain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!
01


Do you understand that the information provided on your application and resume must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your knowledge?


Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree
• No

02



PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
• Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

03


Do you have a High School Diploma or General Education Diploma (G.E.D.)?

• Yes
• No

Required Question