Correctional Officer

Job Opportunity at Newton Correctional Facility

Newton, Iowa is a progressive, family friendly community, a shining star of Central Iowa and a place to call home. Whether you're raising a family, starting a business or building a home, you'll want to get to know Newton. The community has many great amenities aside from excellent schools. Unique entertainment, beautiful art displays and parks, and great attractions for families to enjoy. Centrally located in Iowa just off I-80, Newton, boasts a diverse array of shopping, recreational and dining choices, both locally and within short driving distances. Des Moines is just 35 miles west, Ames is 62 miles NW, and Iowa City is 87 miles east. "America's Dutch Treasure", Pella, lies just 23 miles to the southeast. Enjoy camping, boating, fishing and swimming activities at nearby Lake Red Rock, 20 miles south. Take in some fast-paced action at an Indy Car or NASCAR race at the Iowa Speedway, or visit the Sprint Car Capital of the World, just 25 miles south in nearby Knoxville. At Newton Correctional Facility, we offer a wide range of career opportunities in various departments; i.e., Security, Treatment, Medical, Administrative, Business, Records, Maintenance/Trades, Warehousing, Food Service and other support areas. Join our team of dedicated professionals who provide an environment that facilitates change for incarcerated individuals as they prepare for release. Come be a part of creating opportunities for safer communities. You'll find an exceptional workplace where mutual respect and support are part of the culture.

This position: Patrols facilities and makes security checks; inspects all areas of the institution (e.g., perimeter towers, control centers, cell areas, rooms, halls, dormitories, recreation/work areas and grounds) for safety/security deficiencies; searches individuals, vehicles, packages, mail, equipment, clothing and offender quarters for contraband items. Escorts offenders, visitors and staff inside/outside of the institution and verifies possession of appropriate passes or legal documents; verifies offender population in an assigned area at regular/irregular intervals and participate in offender counts. Interacts with the general public, visitors and victims in person or via phone. Provides information, security, and assistance. Observes offender behavior/interaction with staff, other offenders, and visitors; communicates observations to supervisory and program staff to ensure effective security and consistent application of offender change principles. Continuously interacts with offenders, assisting in the development of problem-solving skills, providing positive reinforcement when appropriate, and instituting corrective measures (informal counseling or sanctions, formal disciplinary action, or physical force) when necessary and as authorized by law/policy. Instructs offenders in policy, procedure, expectations, and assists offenders in the development of attitudes and skills necessary for successful adaptation to life within an institution. Role models pro-social attitudes and behaviors that convey respect for others and the acknowledgement that offenders can change their lives by development of skills and the adoption of pro-social attitudes and behaviors. Maintains logs, prepares reports, and enters information into the DOC electronic offender record system. Supervises offender work assignments and evaluates work performance. Operates electronic doors, telephone systems, two-way radios, intercom, alarm systems, closed circuit TV systems, and computer terminals and uses weapons/offender control devices. Attends training classes and seminars; may train or serve as team leader for other staff. Skills: Active Listening – Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times. Monitoring – Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action. Critical Thinking – Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems. Social Perceptiveness – Awareness of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do. Speaking – Talking to others to convey information effectively.

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.

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.

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.

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