CDOC Correctional Officer - Canon Facilities

Correctional Officer I (CO I) – Job Description

The Correctional Officer I maintains the safety and security of Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) prison facilities throughout the state. Officers support the CDOC Mission, Vision and Values and prepare inmates for community reentry.

Key responsibilities include:

• Work directly with inmates in a locked facility
• Monitor and control access to the facility and restricted areas
• Man an armed post (requires annual firearms certification)
• Monitor facility perimeter and detain unidentified pedestrians and vehicles
• Operate mechanical doors, security devices, equipment and alarms
• Control inmate movement during the daily schedule
• Escort and transport inmates in authorized state vehicles
• Monitor visiting areas
• Conduct formal, informal, and emergency counts
• Cross‑check and maintain movement logs
• Conduct searches for contraband (including canine, metal detector, pat, perimeter, strip and vehicle searches)
• Inspect facility and cells to maintain health, safety and sanitation standards
• Inspect inmate mail and property
• Respond to emergencies such as fights, medical emergencies, fires and escapes following established protocols
• Follow established tool and key control procedures, ensuring proper storage and documentation
• Attend roll call and document incidents using established reporting practices
• Communicate pertinent information to coworkers and supervisors

Minimum qualification:

• High School Diploma or a GED certificate

Conditions of employment:

• Applicants must acknowledge and agree to the Conditions of Employment within the application process
• Applicants must have valid U.S. work authorization; DOC cannot provide H‑1B sponsorship
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Possess a valid and unrestricted driver’s license; drivers must maintain a safe driving record consistent with Colorado Division of Human Resources Universal Policy Driving Standards
• Have no felony convictions
• Successful completion of a background investigation is required
• All job offers are contingent upon a successful health screening
• Successfully pass all modules of the Colorado Department of Corrections Basic Training, including defensive tactics and written/practical exams
• Possess the physical ability to complete defensive tactics and withstand impact, use baton, perform controlled takedowns, and operate a firearm
• Will be exposed to Oleoresin Capsicum during basic training and assignments
• Must be willing and able to work all shifts, including doubles, weekends, holidays, and inclement weather; will be given shift schedule after training completion
• Must be willing and able to use physical force as trained to control situations
• Must work in a locked correctional facility with fluctuating noise and temperature, and may be required to work outdoors in inclement weather
• Must be willing and able to travel to transport inmates in a state vehicle
• TB screening is required of all new employees upon hire

Required competencies:

• Strong work ethic, accountability, integrity and dependability
• Sound judgment, reasoning and decision‑making skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to cooperate with staff and inspire teamwork
• Excellent customer service and attention to detail
• Ability to read and comprehend English and communicate fluently in English verbally and in writing
• Visual and auditory observation skills to detect hazards, security breaches and inmate behavior
• Knowledge of criminal justice systems, state statutes, Americans with Disabilities Act, Prison Rape Elimination Act and CDOC policies
• Computer and email proficiency, basic keyboarding skills, and ability to document and communicate incidents
• Ability to perform searches, detect contraband attributes, and manipulate security equipment
• Ability to operate and monitor security devices, firearms, restraints, and communication equipment safely and professionally
• Ability to use chemical agents (e.g., pepper spray) and remain calm under pressure
• Self‑control, emotional stability and mental resilience under stress

Preferred qualifications:

• Bilingual proficiency
• Experience mentoring others or volunteer work

The State of Colorado is an equal‑opportunity employer. The State of Colorado requires that employment decisions be based on the qualifications of the applicant and not on the individual's race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or related factors.