Correctional Officer

Signing Bonus

Applicants may receive a $5,000 signing bonus, paid in installments.

The Delaware Department of Correction (DOC) seeks entry‑level Correctional Officers (Cadets) to maintain discipline, security, and safety within and outside secure facilities. The position includes orientation and on‑the‑job training, with promotion potential upon satisfactory completion of departmental standards.

• Maintain control of inmates while escorting individuals or groups within the prison.
• Keep accurate head counts of inmates in the assigned security post.
• Conduct periodic shakedowns and searches of inmates, visitors, employees, cell blocks, and other structures for prohibited items.
• Operate manual and electronic locking systems.
• Enforce rules, regulations, and procedures affecting inmate discipline, security, and safety.
• Observe inmate activities to detect unusual or prohibited behavior that may threaten facility security or inmate safety.
• Ensure inmates conform to proper care standards for living areas and personal hygiene.
• Maintain custody of inmates during transport to other institutions or for court appearances.
• Prepare and maintain a daily log and routine reports of activities and incidents on the assigned shift using an automated information system.
• Fully cooperate with K‑9 units; this may include feeding, grooming, and kennel maintenance.
• Enter the institution as backup in riot control and shakedown activities; participate in pursuit of escapees as required.

• At least 18 years of age.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Driver’s License (not suspended, revoked, cancelled, or disqualified).

• Successful completion of an eleven‑week Correctional Officer Basic Course, covering inmate supervision, defensive tactics, riot control, weapons, report writing, and emergency medical training.
• Completion of the Correctional Employee Initial Training (CEIT) course with a resulting salary increase.
• Eligibility for a 5% shift differential for work between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.

Annual base salary: $53,807.00. After CEIT completion, salary increases to $57,844.80.

See the DOC benefit package for details. The employer is a Veterans‑approved provider for eligible Veterans.

Conditional offers require completion of a criminal background check, physical fitness test, psychological examination, pre‑employment drug test, and medical examination. Applicants may pay the medical examination cost as part of the conditional offer.

Eligible for retirement under HB363 after 25 years of pension‑creditable state service, with at least 20 years as a Correctional Officer.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout all phases of the application and employment process. Contact the specified phone numbers or email for assistance.

The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage applications from individuals representing all protected classes, including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.