Correctional Officer

Correctional Officer – State of Wisconsin

The Department of Corrections is focused on public safety through the custody and supervision of those in our care. Corrections employees have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of others through careers in a variety of fields. Using evidence‑based approaches, employees implement lasting change with a positive impact for the people of Wisconsin.

The Department of Corrections, is currently accepting applications for Correctional Officer vacancies throughout the state.

For a map of all offices and facilities, please review Department of Correction locations.

This position is responsible for ensuring the security, custody, control, and treatment of persons in the care of the Division of Adult Institutions. These positions supervise residents on institution grounds and escort residents off‑site as required. The Correctional Officer communicates institution information and concerns, maintains record‑keeping systems, and maintains professional interactions with staff, residents, and the public.

The Correctional Officer will work under the supervision of a Supervising Officer 1 or 2, or Institution Unit Supervisor, and take direction from Correctional Sergeants.

This position requires the ability to legally carry a firearm.

To see a sample of a “Day in the Life of a Correctional Officer”, view this video! Correctional Officer Employment Video.

This position is in pay schedule and range 05‑31 with a starting pay of $34.67/hour. Pay will be set in accordance with the Compensation Plan and Wisconsin Administrative Code in effect at the time of hire. A probationary period is required.

Employees working in maximum security sites are eligible for a $3.00 per hour add‑on for all hours worked. Maximum security sites include:
Columbia Correctional Institution, Dodge Correctional Institution, Green Bay Correctional Institution, Taycheedah Correctional Institution, and Waupun Correctional Institution.

Employees working in medium security sites are eligible for a $1.00 per hour add‑on for all hours worked. Medium security sites include:
Fox Lake Correctional Institution, Jackson Correctional Institution, Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution, Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility, New Lisbon Correctional Institution, Oshkosh Correctional Institution, Racine Correctional Institution, Racine Youthful Offender Correctional Facility, Redgranite Correctional Institution, and Stanley Correctional Institution.

Candidates with no prior permanent employment with the State of Wisconsin in the past five (5) years may be eligible to accept a sign‑on bonus of $3,000. The sign‑on bonus will be paid in two installments: $1,500 on the first paycheck and $1,500 with the paycheck for the pay period in which the employee attains permanent status (usually one (1) year).

(UW System employment isn’t disqualifying). To receive the bonus, a candidate must sign an agreement indicating they will remain in the occupational area for one (1) year. If the candidate leaves prior to completing the one (1) year, they may be required to reimburse the initial payment.

In addition to meaningful and rewarding work, we offer a competitive benefits package featuring:

• Substantial leave time including at least 3.5 weeks of vacation to start, 9 paid holidays, and ample accrued sick time that rolls over each year.
• Insurance:
  Excellent and affordable health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• An exceptional pension plan including a lifetime retirement payment.
• An optional tax‑advantaged 457 retirement savings plan.
• The Well Wisconsin Program helps participants set health and well‑being goals, track progress, stay motivated, and earn incentives.
• Our Employee Assistance Program offers employees and their immediate family a variety of tools, resources, and professional consultation services to support their health, goals, and overall well‑being.
• DOC is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

Please  for a summary of State of Wisconsin employment benefits or  to explore employment benefits on the website.

To help you understand what your…