Corrections Officer Trainee, SCI Chester

About the Role

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. You will build strong skills, gain confidence, and help support the well-being of inmates and staff.

Description of Work

This position provides training and guided experience in the custody, supervision, and support of inmates in a state correctional facility. The role involves direct interaction with inmates and structured learning in essential security and counseling practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Interact with inmates and visitors in both direct and indirect situations.
• Maintain security by monitoring inmate movement and activities in cellblocks, housing units, work areas, dining spaces, and recreation areas.
• Make periodic and unannounced rounds, conduct head counts, complete security checks, and report unusual situations.
• Participate in formalized instruction in sociology, psychology, court procedures, self-defense, leadership, custodial responsibilities, and the facility’s organizational structure.
• Offer advice and guidance to inmates adjusting to and participating in correctional processes and agency rules/regulations.
• Write and complete detailed reports.
• Act quickly and safely during emergency situations.
• Wear employer-provided uniforms.

Work Schedule

• Full-time employment with a 40-hour work week.
• Shifts to be determined.
• Ability to work any shift and in all areas of the institution as assigned.
• Overtime as required by operational necessities and emergencies.
• Work on weekends and holidays occurring during your normal work schedule.
• Report to work under adverse weather conditions.
• No telework option available.

Compensation & Benefits

• Starting hourly rate: $23.49.
• Shift differential: up to $1.25 per hour.
• Eligible for full retirement benefits at age 50 or 55.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.

Requirements & Qualifications

• PA residency requirement is currently waived.
• Successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, PA is required.
• Ability to perform essential job functions.
• Must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.
• Must successfully complete a medical examination, psychological evaluation, and urinalysis screening for drugs.

Application Process

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam. No additional exam is required at a test center.
• Your score is based on the detailed information provided on your application and in response to supplemental questions.
• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed.
• Information to support eligibility must be provided on the application.
• If claiming education, attach a copy of college transcripts (unofficial accepted).
• Applications must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with application requirements may eliminate you from consideration.
• All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant’s own experience, qualifications, and work.
• Generative AI tools may be used for preparation purposes only; use to misrepresent or falsify information is not permitted.

Veterans Preference

• Pennsylvania law provides employment preference for qualified veterans.

Interview Information

• Interviews are anticipated to be held November 17, 2026, and November 18, 2026.
• Check your inbox and spam mail regularly for additional interview information.
• Follow all instructions provided in notices to be considered.

Accommodation & Support

• Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 711.
• If you need accommodations due to a disability, discuss your request with the interviewer in advance.