Being a correctional officer is a job that few people fancy. The nature of the work is stressful, daunting, and sometimes outright dangerous. Correctional officers are responsible for watching over inmates. They need to make regular inspections to ensure that inmates are not hiding drugs, alcohol, and sharp materials. Aside from this, officers also need to break the infighting among different gangs.
In essence, correctional officers are responsible for keeping the stability and peace in prisons, jails, and juvenile detention centers. For people who can overlook the downsides of the job, a career as a correctional officer is not only rewarding, it also gives people a chance to make a big difference.
However, in some cases, it is very dangerous to even have minimal contact with prisoners. For example, in maximum-security prisons, the correctional officers watch the inmates on close-circuit television because of the sheer challenge of the job.
Are You Ready to be a Correctional Officer?
Some people see the job of correctional officers as exciting, others see it as daunting. Whatever the case, being successful in the job requires dedication and the ability to face down tough elements in society. It also takes hard work, perseverance, and the capability to control hardened prisoners. It is a given that people in this line of work should be physically and mentally tough. Being responsible for the safety of society is a very dangerous job. Thinking and acting swiftly is the key.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a correctional officer right now, getting involved in sports and other physical activities will get you in shape. In addition to this, you will also learn disciple through sports. There should be no illusions about the job. A lot of new recruits have a hard time during the first few months of academy training and in the work itself.
Career Outlook
Through 2018, the job opportunities for correctional officers will continue to grow. Unless states change their sentencing laws, the demand for protection services is bound to remain high especially with population growth. Also, many officers in the field are retiring. The average yearly incomes of correctional officers stand at $41,340 as of 2008. As you move up the ranks, you can expect pay of up to $58,380 or more.
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