Are you seeking a challenging yet rewarding career that offers job stability, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on society? Learning how to become a correctional officer in Kansas could be the right path for you. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential requirements, steps, and training needed to join this fulfilling profession in the Sunflower State.
What you’re about to learn in this guide:
Kansas requires specific qualifications and background checks to become a Correctional Officer.
Training programs, job opportunities, salaries & benefits are available for those who qualify.
Working as a correctional officer in Kansas can be challenging yet rewarding with potential for career advancement and meaningful rewards.
Kansas Correctional Officer Requirements
In Kansas, the job description of correctional officers includes ensuring safety and security within the state’s correctional facilities, such as the North Central Regional Office and the Wichita Work Release Facility. Fulfilling specific requirements is a prerequisite to qualify for this demanding job.
We will now examine the qualifications and requirements needed to become a correctional officer in Kansas, including the role of Kansas Correctional Industries in the process.
Education and Experience
A high school diploma or GED is the minimum educational requirement to become a correctional officer in Kansas. Although not mandatory, having a bachelor’s degree in behavioral sciences, social sciences, or criminal justice/law could give you a competitive edge in securing a position within the state’s correctional facilities, as these subjects provide valuable knowledge of local laws and regulations.
Possessing relevant work experience is also key to landing a job as a correctional officer. For instance, to be considered for a position in Topeka, Kansas, applicants must demonstrate experience in dealing with violent inmates in their cover letter. Having a background in law enforcement, corrections, or other related fields can also be advantageous in meeting this requirement.
Background Investigation and Good Moral Character
As a correctional officer in Kansas, you’ll be entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining safety and security in correctional facilities. Hence, a clean criminal record and strong ethical values are prerequisites. Candidates must undergo a comprehensive background investigation, which includes a review of any pending charges, indictments, or outstanding warrants.
A felony conviction, a domestic violence conviction, or a failed drug screen could disqualify you from becoming a correctional officer in Kansas, even if you have a valid driver’s license.
Physical Fitness and Health Requirements
Candidates need to pass a physical examination and a physical agility test to prove their physical capability to perform the duties of a correctional officer. The physical agility test comprises of:
Navigating a module obstacle course within 15 seconds
Touching the nape of the neck with fingertips
Placing fingertips within 2 inches of toes in a forward bend
Additionally, applicants must be able to complete a 3-mile run in 30 minutes or less.
Steps to Become a Correctional Officer in Kansas
With an understanding of the requirements to become a correctional officer in Kansas, we will now discuss the steps involved in the application process, psychological evaluations, and training programs. These steps ensure you’re well-prepared to handle the challenges and responsibilities of working in various correctional facilities.
Application Process
The first step in becoming a correctional officer in Kansas is to submit an application, resume, and supporting documents to the Kansas Department of Corrections. Be prepared to undergo an employment and background check as part of the application process.
In addition to submitting your application, you’ll be required to take a mandatory exam that evaluates your basic English, writing, reading comprehension, and judgment capabilities. This written Corrections Officer Test must be completed successfully to gain employment as a correctional officer in Kansas.
Psychological Exam and Interview
Evaluating your mental stability and suitability for the role forms another significant part of the hiring process. Kansa State correctional officer candidates must complete a multi-phase employment process. It involves a background investigation, a psychological exam and an interview..
The psychological exam typically covers an assessment of your mental health, emotional stability, and capacity to manage stress. This evaluation is designed to determine whether you’re suitable for the rigorous requirements of a correctional officer’s job.
Training Program
Once you’ve successfully passed the application process and psychological evaluations, you’ll need to complete a 240-hour basic training course, on-the-job training, and annual continuing education. This comprehensive training program covers various topics, such as basic job requirements, ethics of corrections, laws governing the job, robbery, assault, domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, DUI, homicide, trauma-informed care, and PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act).
Upon commencement of your employment as a correctional officer in Kansas, you’ll be subject to a one-year probationary period. Additionally, you must fulfill a 40-hour continuing education training requirement annually to maintain your position.
Job Opportunities at Kansas Correctional Facilities
As a correctional officer in Kansas, you have a range of job opportunities at various correctional facilities, such as state prisons, federal prisons, and juvenile facilities. Each type of facility offers unique challenges and rewards, allowing you to choose the best fit for your skills and interests.
State Prisons
State prisons in Kansas, also known as the state’s correctional facilities, house inmates convicted of state crimes and provide various job opportunities for correctional officers. The Kansas Department of Corrections operates eight adult correctional facility sites, each with varying security levels, from minimum to maximum. As a correctional officer at a state prison, you’ll be responsible for maintaining safety and security while supervising inmates, including those convicted of violent crimes.
Working in a state prison allows you to:
Contribute to the rehabilitation of inmates convicted under local laws
Maintain a secure environment
Facilitate their reintegration into society
Reduce the likelihood of recidivism
Your efforts in these areas can make a significant impact.
Federal Prisons
Federal prisons in Kansas include the U.S. Penitentiary at Leavenworth and its satellite camp, which house inmates convicted of federal crimes. USP Leavenworth is a medium-security facility which houses male offenders. It has an attached minimum-security prison camp. As a correctional officer at a federal prison, you’ll work with federal inmates and follow federal guidelines and regulations.
The Leavenworth USP offers various programming for inmates, such as academic and vocational goals, prison employment, and life skills enrichment programs. By working in a federal prison, you’ll have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of federal inmates and help them successfully reintegrate into society.
Juvenile Facilities
Juvenile facilities in Kansas focus on the rehabilitation and education of young offenders, offering specialized roles for correctional officers. In these facilities, you’ll work with a unique population of young inmates, providing guidance and support to help them become constructive members of society.
Working in a juvenile facility can be a fulfilling experience, as you have the potential to make a beneficial impact on the lives of the juveniles in your care.
Salaries and Benefits for Kansas Correctional Officers
Beyond the rewarding nature of the job, correctional officers in Kansas receive competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits. We will now discuss the entry-level salaries, benefits, and potential career advancements for correctional officers in Kansas.
Starting Salary
The starting salary for a correctional officer in Kansas varies by location and experience, with a general range of $28,000 to $32,000 per year. Factors such as the facility’s location, your educational qualifications, and previous work experience can impact your initial salary.
For instance, a correctional officer in Kansas City may receive an average salary of $30,000 per annum, while a correctional officer in Wichita may receive an average salary of $32,000 per annum. Keep in mind that these figures are just examples, and actual salary range may differ based on various factors.
Benefits and Perks
Correctional officers in Kansas enjoy comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Health benefits available to correctional officers include medical, dental, prescription, and vision coverage options, along with flexible spending accounts for health and dependent care expenses.
As for retirement plans, correctional officers in Kansas are eligible for a retirement plan through the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS), which offers a defined benefit plan and a defined contribution plan. Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays are also part of the benefits package, with vacation and sick leave accruing at a rate of 8 hours per month.
Career Advancement Opportunities
The Kansas Department of Corrections offers various career advancement opportunities for its correctional officers. You may be eligible for promotions to higher-level positions, such as sergeant or lieutenant, as well as specialized positions like investigator or instructor. With dedication and hard work, you can progress in your career and acquire valuable experience that can further enhance your professional growth.
Challenges and Rewards of Being a Correctional Officer in Kansas
Being a correctional officer in Kansas presents both challenges and rewards. We will now delve into the potential difficulties and the rewards that can be attained in this profession.
Challenges
Correctional officers in Kansas often face various challenges, such as staff shortages, high turnover rates, and the potential for dangerous situations. The physically demanding nature of the job and the stress levels associated with it can have a negative impact on your health. Additionally, managing hazardous inmates and dealing with complex scenarios require quick decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Despite these challenges, many correctional officers find their work fulfilling, taking satisfaction in the knowledge that their efforts positively impact the lives of male inmates and contribute to public safety.
Rewards
The rewards of being a correctional officer in Kansas include job security, competitive salaries, and the satisfaction of contributing to the rehabilitation of inmates. Moreover, you’ll have the opportunity to progress in your career and acquire valuable experience in various aspects of corrections.
Assisting inmates in developing skills for becoming productive members of society plays a vital role in reducing recidivism rates and fostering safer communities. In the end, the rewards of being a correctional officer in Kansas far outweigh the challenges you may face.
Summary
Becoming a correctional officer in Kansas offers a fulfilling and rewarding career path with competitive salaries, benefits, and opportunities for growth. By meeting the necessary requirements, completing the application process, and undergoing comprehensive training, you’ll be well-prepared to handle the challenges and responsibilities of working in various correctional facilities. As a correctional officer, you’ll play a pivotal role in maintaining safety and security while helping inmates rehabilitate and reintegrate into society. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others and contribute to safer communities, consider a career as a correctional officer in Kansas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is correctional officer training in Kansas?
In Kansas, newly hired corrections officers must complete a 240 hour Basic Training for Corrections Officers course through the Kansas Department of Corrections.
Are correctional officers law enforcement in Kansas?
In Kansas, the warden of any correctional institution, the department of corrections staff in the chain of command from the secretary of corrections to the corrections officer, and every corrections officer are all considered law enforcement officers.
What’s the most a correctional officer can make?
The most a Correctional Officer can make is around $81,940 per year, with the best jobs paying up to $103,000 annually. The lowest pay level for a Correctional Officer is $27,000.
How do I become a corrections officer in Kansas?
To become a corrections officer in Kansas, you must be 18 or older with a high school diploma or GED, have a valid Kansas drivers license, be a US citizen, and have no felony or domestic violence convictions. Additionally, you must pass an intensive jail officer training program.
What is the starting salary for a correctional officer in Kansas?
The starting salary for a correctional officer in Kansas is approximately $37,980.80 per annum, or $18.26 per hour. Experience and location can also affect the salary range, which may vary from $22,000 to $63,500.