Correctional Officer

Job Description A Position in the Iowa Department of Correction is more than a job. It's a calling. Corrections employees transform lives, equipping Iowans in the criminal justice system with the skills they need to contribute to their communities, inside and outside our walls. Join us at the Anamosa State Penitentiary as a Correctional Officer. Duties include patrolling facilities and making security checks; inspecting all areas of the institution—perimeter towers, control centers, cell areas, rooms, halls, dormitories, recreation/work areas, and grounds—for safety and security deficiencies; searching individuals, vehicles, packages, mail, equipment, clothing, and offender quarters for contraband items. Escorts offenders, visitors, and staff inside and outside of the institution, verifying possession of appropriate passes or legal documents, and verifies offender population in an assigned area at regular or irregular intervals while participating in offender counts. Interacts with the general public, visitors, and victims in person or via phone to provide information, security, and assistance. Observes offender behavior and interactions with staff, other offenders, and visitors; communicates observations to supervisory and program staff to ensure effective security and consistent application of offender change principles. Interacts continuously with offenders, assisting in the development of problem‑solving skills, providing positive reinforcement when appropriate, and instituting corrective measures—including informal counseling or sanctions, formal disciplinary action, or physical force—when necessary and authorized by law or policy. Instructs offenders in policy, procedure, expectations, and assists in developing attitudes and skills necessary for successful adaptation to life within an institution. Serves as a role model for pro‑social attitudes and behaviors that convey respect for others and the acknowledgment that offenders can change their lives through skill development and pro‑social attitudes. 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, intercoms, alarm systems, closed circuit TV systems, and computer terminals, and uses weapons and offender control devices. Attends training classes and seminars; may train or serve as a team leader for other staff. At Anamosa Correctional Facility, located in Anamosa, Iowa, the Iowa Department of Correction offers a wide range of career opportunities in various departments—including Security, Treatment, Medical, Administrative, Business, Records, Maintenance/Trades, Food Service, and other support areas. Join our team of dedicated professionals who provide an environment that facilitates change for incarcerated individuals. Come be part of creating opportunities for safer communities. You’ll find an exceptional workplace where mutual respect and support are part of the culture. 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. Additional Qualification Requirements 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Iowa - Executive Branch