Corrections Officer Trainee – State Correctional Institution at Forest

THE POSITION

Are you looking for more than just a job, but the start of a successful career? If you have a strong dedication to public service and want to help keep the public safe, we encourage you to submit an application for the State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Forest.

The Corrections Officer Trainee participates in formal training sessions and on‑the‑job assignments to develop skills and techniques in the custody and supervision of inmates in a state correctional facility. Work is performed under the direct supervision of a corrections officer. Work in this position involves the care, custody, control, and non‑professional counseling of inmates.

• Direct and indirect contact with inmates and visitors.
• Direct and maintain security in cell blocks, housing units, cottages, work areas, dining, and recreation areas by monitoring movement and activities of inmates.
• Observe inmates and inmate behavior by making periodic and unannounced rounds, head counts, and security checks, and report anything unusual to a corrections officer.
• Work a 40‑hour work week with shifts to be determined; work any shift and in all areas of the institution as assigned; work overtime as required by operation necessities and emergencies; work weekends and holidays that occur during normal work schedule; report to work under adverse weather conditions.
• Participate in formalized instruction in sociology, psychology, court procedures, self‑defense, leadership, custodial responsibilities, and the facility’s organizational structure.
• Provide advice and guidance to assist inmates in their adjustment to correctional processes and the Department’s rules and regulations.
• Prepare written reports.
• Respond to emergency situations.
• Wear required uniforms; this is a full‑time position.

• Must be able to perform essential job functions.
• Must pass a background investigation and meet CJIS compliance requirements.
• Must successfully complete a medical examination, psychological evaluation, and urinalysis screening for drugs.
• Successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, PA is required.

• Telework:
  You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Starting hourly rate is $22.97; shift differential up to $1.25 per hour.
• Eligible for full retirement benefits at age 50 or 55.
• This is a union position and is subject to promotion provisions of a collective bargaining agreement or memorandum.

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed; the information contained therein will not be considered for determining eligibility. Provide relevant, detailed experience/education on the application.
• If claiming education in supplemental application questions, attach a copy of college transcripts (unofficial acceptable).
• Submit application by posting closing date; late applications and required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration.

Applicants will be invited to interview on February 17, 2025. Please check your inbox and spam mail regularly as additional information regarding the interview process will be sent to the email address you used when applying for this vacancy. Follow all instructions provided in notices to be considered for the vacancy.

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 many state and local government jobs.

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