Correctional Officer

Corrections Officer Trainee Join the Department of Corrections as a Corrections Officer Trainee and begin a career that makes a real difference. This role offers hands‑on training and steady support as you learn how to maintain safety and order within a state correctional facility. You will build strong skills, gain confidence, and help support the well‑being of inmates and staff. If you have a strong dedication to public service and want to help keep the public safe, we encourage you to submit an application for the State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Mercer. Position Details Salary: $49,010.00 annually Location: Mercer County, PA Job Type: Civil Service Permanent Full‑Time Responsibilities Inmate Contact : Interact with inmates and visitors in both direct and indirect situations. Maintain Security : Monitor inmate movement and activities in cellblocks, housing units, work areas, dining spaces, and recreation areas. Observation : Conduct periodic and unannounced rounds, head counts, security checks, and report unusual situations. Work Schedule : Full‑time, 40‑hour week with shifts as assigned; overtime, weekends, holidays, and adverse weather conditions may apply. Telework : Not available. Training Participation : Attend formal instruction in sociology, psychology, court procedures, self‑defense, leadership, custodial responsibilities, and facility structure. Provide Guidance : Offer advice to inmates adjusting to correctional processes and agency rules. Prepare Reports : Write and complete detailed incident and procedural reports. Respond to Emergencies : Act quickly and safely during emergency situations. Uniforms : Wear employer‑provided uniforms. Union Membership : Follow promotion provisions of the collective bargaining agreement. Compensation : Starting hourly rate $23.49 with shift differential up to $1.25. Retirement : Eligible for full retirement benefits at age 50 or 55. Benefits Package : Comprehensive benefits including health, vision, dental, and wellness programs. Requirements PA residency requirement is currently waived for this title. Completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, PA required. Must be able to perform essential job functions. Must pass a background investigation and meet CJIS compliance requirements. Must complete a medical examination, psychological evaluation, and urinalysis screening for drugs. Application Process Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed. Eligibility information must be provided directly on the application. Only content on the application form and supplemental questions will be considered. Applicants claiming education must attach at least a copy of college transcripts. Applications must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Failure to comply with the above requirements may eliminate a candidate from consideration. All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant’s own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation only; misrepresentation or assistance during the interview is prohibited. Veterans Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans. Learn more at and click on Veterans. Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) 711 for hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals. Equal Employment Opportunity The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply. Interview Schedule Interviews are scheduled for August 11, 2026, and if needed August 12, 2026. Please check your inbox and spam folder regularly for additional information. Follow all instructions in the interview notices to be considered for a vacancy. Examination Information Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, constitutes the examination for this position. No additional written exam will be required. Your score on the application is valid only for this posting and may be lower than deserved if incomplete or inaccurate. You may apply only once for this posting. Results will be emailed. #J-18808-Ljbffr