Corrections Officer Trainee - SCI Mercer

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, 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 apply to the State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Mercer.

• Inmate Contact: Interact with inmates and visitors in direct and indirect situations
• Maintain Security: Monitor inmate movement and activities in cell blocks, housing units, work areas, dining spaces, and recreation areas to maintain security
• Observation: Make periodic and unannounced rounds, conduct head counts, complete security checks, and report unusual situations to a Corrections Officer
• Work Schedule: Full‑time employment – 40‑hour work week with shifts to be determined. Work any shift and in all areas of the institution as assigned; overtime as required, work weekends and holidays per schedule, and report to work under adverse weather conditions
• Telework: Not available for this position
• Training Participation: Participate in formalized instruction in sociology, psychology, court procedures, self‑defence, leadership, custodial responsibilities, and facility structure
• Provide Guidance: Offer advice and guidance to inmates adjusting to correctional processes and agency rules/regulations
• Prepare Reports: Write and complete detailed 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 or memorandum

• Salary: Starting hourly rate $22.97; shift differential up to $1.25 per hour
• Retirement: Eligible for full retirement benefits at age 50 or 55
• Benefits Package: Comprehensive benefits package including health, vision, dental, and wellness programs

• Successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania is required
• You must be able to perform essential job functions

• You must pass a background investigation and meet CJIS compliance requirements
• Candidates must successfully complete a medical examination, psychological evaluation, and urinalysis screening for drugs

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.

Pennsylvania law provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry website and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 711 – for hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals.