Correctional Officer

Job Information

State of Tennessee
Opening Date/Time: 06/16/2026 12:00 AM Central Time
Closing Date/Time: 06/29/2026 11:59 PM Central Time
Monthly Salary: $3,631.00 – $4,533.00
Annual Salary: $43,572.00 – $54,396.00
Sign‑on Bonus: $5,000 payable over 18 months
Job Type: Full‑time

Location:

Pikeville, TN, Department of Correction – Bledsoe County

Education:

High school general education equivalent.
Special qualifications:

• Willing to qualify, carry, and use assigned weapons
• At least 18 years of age on the date of application
• Citizen of the United States
• Good moral character determined by investigation
• Complete a criminal history disclosure form and agree to release all records involving criminal history
• Supply fingerprint sample per TBI prescription for criminal history check
• No conviction for a felony or honorable discharge from any U.S. armed forces branch
• Pass medical examination consistent with ADA and related to essential functions
• Pass psychological evaluation consistent with ADA
• Pass pre‑employment drug screening
• Possess valid motor vehicle operator's license (some positions)
• Complete prescribed course of instruction at Tennessee Correction Academy upon appointment

Additional screening:
Motor Vehicle Records screening, pre‑employment drug screen, and criminal background check required.

The Correctional Officer 1 is an entry‑level class responsible for the custody, transport, and rehabilitation of inmates in a state penal institution. Responsibilities include supervision across housing units, dining areas, recreation, and work areas. Officers may be assigned to any shift and work at any post assignment. Successful completion of a mandatory one‑year training program leads to reclassification to Correctional Officer
2. Performance below expectations during training results in demotion or termination.

• Supervise inmate activities in housing units, dining areas, recreation, and work areas, and meet inmates' medical, visitation, personal property, and recreational needs.
• Inspect and patrol grounds to prevent contraband, unauthorized personnel, and other security risks.
• Check in new inmates by assigning accommodations, searching for contraband, issuing clothing, and storing personal property.
• Observe inmate behavior, counsel inmates and families about problems, evaluate hygiene and attitudes, and report to counseling department.
• Attend staff meetings, disciplinary board meetings, and training (riot control, escape prevention, first aid).
• Prepare reports such as daily logs, disciplinary reports, inmate job and pay records, daily inmate counts, and office supply requisitions.
• Operate equipment including two‑way radios, firearms, mace, electronic gates, television cameras, and motor vehicles.
• Ensure safety of residents through supervision of daily activity.
• Break up fights or other potentially dangerous situations by persuasion or physical force.
• Explain and enforce existing policies and procedures.