Correctional Officer I

Job Description

Job Description

The Grand Forks County Sheriff’s Office is seeking motivated, professional individuals to join our team as a Correctional Officer at the Grand Forks County Correctional Center. This is an excellent opportunity to build a rewarding career in public safety while making a positive impact on our community.

Correctional Officers play a vital role in ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of individuals housed within the facility. This position offers meaningful work, steady career progression, and the chance to be part of a respected and supportive law enforcement team.

This is a great opportunity to become part of the Grand Forks County Sheriff’s Office, contribute to public safety, and develop a stable, fulfilling career. If you are dependable, team-oriented, and committed to making a difference, we encourage you to apply.

Starting Rate: $24.83 per hour, as of Jan 1, 2026.

To learn more about this position, please review the Correctional Officer Position Description.

No prior correctional or law enforcement experience is required. The Grand Forks County Sheriff’s Office provides all training necessary to be successful in this position, including:

• Comprehensive on-the-job training
• Classroom instruction
• Safety and security procedures
• Communication and de-escalation skills
• Policy and legal requirements
• Ongoing professional development

We are committed to preparing every new hire with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to excel.

Basic Requirements:

1. High school graduate or GED and at least 18 years of age.
2. Ability to pass a thorough background investigation, including a medical and drug/alcohol screening.
3. Knowledge of dealing with people, multi-tasking, legalities of restricted environment.
4. Ability to remain calm and professionals in all situations.
5. Ability to successful pass licensing for Correctional Officer Certificate and maintain a valid driver's license.
6. Must have availability to work rotating shifts including days, nights, and weekends.

IMPORTANT APPLICATION PROCESS: A Grand Forks County Sheriff's Office Application must be completed and submitted with a resume and cover letter. Interviews will only be granted to those who submit a completed application. DD214 is required to be submitted with the application to gain veterans preference. Applications may be obtained and/or returned in person or via mail at: 3005 Heartland Drive, Grand Forks, ND 58201 or by email to View email address on ziprecruiter.com.

Click Here>>> Grand Forks County Sheriff's Office Application

Status and Hours: Full-time, benefit eligible – based on a 40 hours per week. 12.25 hours shifts, days, evenings, and rotating shifts available. Day shift is from 6:45 am to 7:00 pm. Evening shift is from 6:45 pm to 7:00 am. Rotating shifts switch from days to evenings every 28 days. Option to be full-time evening shift after completion of training.

County Employment Benefits and Perks: While employed at Grand Forks County you will receive a generous number of paid holidays, paid time off, benefits, and retirement. Did you know that Grand Forks County participates in NDPERS Retirement - 16.26% and employees only contribute 2% and the County contributes the rest. For employees hired on or after January 1,2025, you will be enrolled in the Defined Compensation 2025 plan (DC25) at the rate of 9.26% of your gross salary paid by the County with an option for an additional 3% employee contribution and County match. To learn about the benefits offered, please review the 2026 Benefits Summary.

Selection Process: Prospective employees will undergo a thorough background investigation including a medical and drug/ alcohol screening. Each applicant’s education, training, and experience will be rated based on required application materials submitted and the top-scoring candidates will be forwarded for further consideration.

DISQUALIFYING FACTORS

• A false statement or any omission of information, on the employment application, consent form, or verbally is disqualifying and grounds for termination.
• A felony conviction.
• Applicants on criminal probation at time of intended hire.
• Any unlawful use of any drug while employed as a peace officer.
• Any involvement in the sales of illegal drugs.
• Lack of a valid driver’s license at time of intended hire.

POTENTIAL DISQUALIFYING FACTORS

• Prior drug usage will be evaluated for what was used, the extent of the use, and how recent the usage has been (including marijuana).
• A misdemeanor conviction.
• A conviction for theft.
• Unlawful carrying of a concealed weapon.
• Demonstrated history of irresponsible motor vehicle operation.
• A “Failure to Appear” on your driving record.
• A D.U.I. conviction.
• Applicants under psychological/psychiatric care.
• Military discipline or less than honorable discharge.
• Demonstrated history of financial irresponsibility.
• Failure to keep appointments or submit documentation in a complete, neat or timely during the background process.

Reasonable Accommodations: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance in the selection process, please notify the Human Resources Department Office in writing, at the time of application.

Close Date: Position is opened until filled.

The County of Grand Forks is an at-will employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status. Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.