Correctional officer jobs in Pennsylvania are in high demand due to the number of state, federal, and county jail facilities.
Many correctional officer job seekers want to work in the state, or county jail facilities that offer a competitive wage, career advancement opportunities, and plenty to do in the community.
In this article, we will take a look at the top 7 best correctional officer jobs in Pennsylvania.
About Becoming a Jailer, Prison Guard, or a CO in PA
Before we get into the best jobs for correctional officers in Pennsylvania, let’s take a quick look at what you need to do to become one.
The first step is to meet the minimum requirements, which include being at least 18 years of age and having a high school diploma or equivalent.
You will also need to have a valid driver’s license and be in good physical condition, as the job can be demanding both physically and mentally.
The next step is to complete a training program that is approved by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
Finally, you will need to pass a criminal background check and drug test.
Now that we know a little bit about what it takes to become a correctional officer in Pennsylvania, let’s take a look at the top jobs.
Top 7 Correctional Officer Jobs in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to some of the best correctional officer jobs in the country.
Here are seven of the best:
Correctional Officers for Federal Bureau of Prisons in PA
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is responsible for the custody and care of inmates sentenced to more than a year in federal prison.
There are several prisons in Pennsylvania that are overseen by the BOP, including the U.S. Penitentiary in Lewisburg and the Federal Correctional Institution in Phoenixville.
As a correctional officer for the BOP, you can expect to earn a competitive salary, as well as benefits such as health insurance and retirement savings.
You will also have the opportunity for career growth, and may be eligible for special assignments, including working with high-risk inmates or in intelligence gathering.
Correctional Officers for Pennsylvania Department of Corrections
The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) is responsible for the custody and care of inmates sentenced to more than two years in state prison.
There are dozens of state prisons throughout Pennsylvania, including the State Correctional Institution at Graterford and the State Correctional Institution at Greene.
As a correctional officer for the DOC, you can expect to earn a competitive salary and benefits, as well as the opportunity for career growth.
You may also be eligible for special assignments, such as working with high-risk inmates or in intelligence gathering.
Correctional Officers for Pennsylvania County Jails
In Pennsylvania, there are 67 county jails that are overseen by the sheriff’s office.
The jails are responsible for the custody and care of inmates who have been sentenced to less than two years in jail or are awaiting trial.
As a correctional officer for a county jail, you can expect to earn a competitive salary and benefits, as well as the opportunity for career growth.
You may also be eligible for special assignments, such as working with high-risk inmates or in intelligence gathering.
Butler County Jail
The Butler County Jail is located in Butler, Pennsylvania and is overseen by the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.
The jail is responsible for the custody and care of inmates who have been sentenced to less than two years in jail or are awaiting trial.
As a correctional officer for the Butler County Jail, you can expect to earn a competitive salary and benefits, as well as the opportunity for career growth.
You may also be eligible for special assignments, such as working with high-risk inmates or in intelligence gathering.
Lackawanna County Jail
The Lackawanna County Jail is located in Scranton, Pennsylvania and is overseen by the Lackawanna County Sheriff’s Department.
The Lackawanna County Jail employs over 100 correctional officers and has a capacity of housing just over 700 inmates.
The average salary for a correctional officer at the Lackawanna County Jail is $42K+ per year.
Lackawanna County Jail is a great place to work for correctional officers who are looking for a stable and competitive job.
The facility offers plenty of opportunity for advancement, as well as a strong benefits package that includes paid vacation days, sick leave, and health insurance.
In addition, the Lackawanna County community has plenty to offer its residents, including a thriving arts and culture scene.
Luzerne County Correctional Facility
Located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, the Luzerne County Correctional Facility is a medium security county jail that employs correctional officers.
The prison is responsible for incarcerating pre-trial and sentenced offenders from the surrounding area.
Officers at LCCF can expect to earn a competitive wage and have the opportunity for career advancement.
The prison is also responsible for providing correctional officer training to new hires.
York County Prison
Located in York, Pennsylvania, the York County Prison is a maximum security county jail that employs correctional officers.
The prison is responsible for incarcerating pre-trial and sentenced offenders from the surrounding area.
Officers at YCP can expect to earn a competitive wage and have the opportunity for career advancement.
The prison is also responsible for providing correctional officer training to new hires.
Other Notable Correctional Facilities to work for in PA
- – Cambria County Prison
- – Chester County Department of Corrections
- – Dauphin County Correctional Facility
- – Delaware County Juvenile Detention Center
- – Erie County Prison
- – Fayette County Prison
- – Franklin County Correctional Facility North
- – Greene County Jail
- – Huntingdon County Jail
- – Indiana County Jail
- Lehigh county correctional facility
- Lincoln county correctional center
- Luzerne county juvenile detention center.
- Lycoming county jail
- Mifflin county correctional facility
- Monroe county correctional facility
- Montgomery county department of corrections
- Potter county prison
- Schuylkill county department of corrections
- Snyder county prison
- Somerset The Uniontown City Jail
- Venango Regional Lockup
Summary
When you decide to become a correctional officer in Pennsylvania, you have many options to choose from.
You can work in a variety of facilities, including county jails and state prisons. You can also choose to work for a federal agency or the military.
There are many different agencies that offer competitive salaries and benefits, as well as opportunities for career growth.
No matter what your career goals are, you can find a correctional officer job in Pennsylvania that is right for you.
So, if you’re looking for a rewarding career in corrections, Pennsylvania is the place to be.
With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect job for your skills and interests. Start your search today!
FAQ About Correctional Officer Jobs in PA
Below are some frequently asked questions about correctional officer jobs in Pennsylvania.
What are the requirements to become a correctional officer in PA?
In order to become a correctional officer in Pennsylvania, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
You must also be able to pass a background check and drug test, and you must have a valid driver’s license.
What are the benefits of working as a correctional officer in PA?
Working as a correctional officer in Pennsylvania comes with many benefits.
You will receive a competitive salary, health insurance, paid vacation days, and sick leave.
You will also have the opportunity to advance in your career, and you will be able to retire with a pension.
What are the risks of working as a correctional officer in PA?
Working as a correctional officer in Pennsylvania comes with some risks.
You may be exposed to dangerous criminals and violent situations.
You may also be required to work long hours, and you may be on call 24 hours a day.
How can I become a correctional officer in PA?
To become a correctional officer in Pennsylvania, you must meet the requirements listed above.
You can then apply for a position at a facility or agency of your choice.
Once you have been hired, you will need to complete a training program.
What is the job outlook for correctional officers in PA?
The job outlook for correctional officers in Pennsylvania is positive. The demand for correctional officers is expected to grow in the coming years, and there are many job opportunities available.
If you are interested in a career in corrections, now is the time to start your search.
Where can I find more information about correctional officer jobs in PA?
For more information about correctional officer jobs in Pennsylvania, you can contact the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections or the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
You can also search online for job postings.
What are the top facilities to work for as correctional officers in PA?
There are many excellent facilities to work for as a correctional officer in Pennsylvania. Some of the top options include county jails, state prisons, and federal agencies.
What are the top agencies to work for as correctional officers in PA?
There are many excellent agencies to work for as a correctional officer in Pennsylvania.
Some of the top options include the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and the Philadelphia Prison System.
Each offers a unique set of benefits and opportunities for career advancement.
- The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections is the largest provider of corrections services in the state, and it offers a competitive salary and benefits package.
- The Federal Bureau of Prisons is the largest correctional system in the world, and it offers excellent training and advancement opportunities.
- The Philadelphia Prison System is one of the oldest prison systems in the country, and it offers a variety of career development opportunities.
These are just a few of the many excellent agencies to work for as correctional officers in Pennsylvania.
What are the top wages for correctional officers in PA?
Correctional officers in Pennsylvania receive a competitive salary and benefits.
The top wages vary depending on the facility or agency you work for.
However, most correctional officers earn between $40,000 and $50,000+ per year.
This is a competitive wage for this type of position, and it offers excellent career advancement opportunities.
What are the top benefits for correctional officers in PA?
The top benefits for correctional officers vary depending on the facility or agency you work for.
However, most correctional officers receive comprehensive health insurance, dental coverage, and vision insurance.
They may also receive life insurance, disability insurance, and a pension plan.
These benefits are designed to help you maintain your health and well-being while you work.
