Have you ever considered a rewarding career in law enforcement, specifically as a correctional officer? In North Carolina, this career path offers competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and opportunities for advancement. In this comprehensive guide on how to become a correctional officer in North Carolina, we’ll walk you through the process, covering everything from requirements and eligibility to salary and major correctional facilities in the state.
What you’re about to learn in this guide:
Meet the requirements set by North Carolina Department of Public Safety, including educational attainment and background checks
Prepare for examinations and interviews to assess qualification for correctional officer position
Achieve physical fitness standards through regular exercise and healthy lifestyle habits
Requirements and Eligibility for Correctional Officers in North Carolina
Understanding the necessary requirements and qualifications is a key step in becoming a correctional officer in North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety sets specific standards that must be met by all applicants, including:
Educational attainment
Age
Citizenship
Background checks
The hiring process particularly values applicants with associate or bachelor’s degrees, an honorable military discharge, and related work experience. This applies to all locations in North Carolina, including Elizabeth City.
Education Requirements
Your educational background is a significant qualification to become a correctional officer in North Carolina. The requirements are as follows:
A high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) diploma, or an equivalent qualification
Certification by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission for state correctional officers
Qualifications may vary for federal correctional officer positions, depending on the specific position and location. In some cases, equivalent work experience can be accepted in lieu of formal education.
While the majority of correctional officer positions in North Carolina are within state and federal facilities, there may be opportunities with private companies that operate prisons or provide security services. The qualifications and requirements for these positions may vary depending on the company. For federal correctional officers at the GS5 or GS6 level in Butner, North Carolina, specific educational and experiential qualifications are required.
Age and Citizenship Requirements
Besides education, age and citizenship are also significant factors that determine your eligibility for correctional officer positions in North Carolina. The minimum age requirement for both state and federal correctional officers in North Carolina, including cities like Winston Salem and New London, is 20 years. Furthermore, applicants must be citizens of the United States.
For federal correctional officer positions in Charlotte, NC, individuals must be less than 37 years old and must not have any felony or domestic violence convictions. Meeting these age and citizenship requirements is essential for all applicants, regardless of the specific correctional facility or jurisdiction.
Background Checks and Disqualifiers
For North Carolina’s correctional officer hiring process, background checks are of major importance. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety is responsible for conducting background investigations on correctional officer applicants, ensuring their eligibility for the position. The background check process may include:
A review of prison, jail, probation, parole, rehabilitation, and employment records of the applicant since the date the crime was committed
Verification of the applicant’s criminal record
A thorough investigation into their past behavior and employment history
Having a felony or serious misdemeanor conviction in one’s background could disqualify an individual from becoming a correctional officer in North Carolina. No felony or serious misdemeanor convictions preclude an individual from being considered for a correctional officer position.
The Application Process for Correctional Officer Jobs in North Carolina
With a clear understanding of North Carolina’s correctional officer requirements and eligibility criteria, we can now examine the application process. The hiring process typically involves finding job postings, submitting applications, and preparing for examinations and interviews that assess your qualifications and suitability for the role.
You can find job postings for correctional officer positions in North Carolina on the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction website, Indeed.com, and ZipRecruiter.com. When submitting an application, the following information is typically required: United States citizenship, minimum age requirement (usually 20 years old), completion of a regionally accredited college or university (for Probation/Parole Officers), sworn law enforcement experience (for out-of-state candidates), successful completion of basic law enforcement training (for out-of-state candidates), personal identification information, education background, and military service information (if applicable).
Job Postings and Openings
To find job postings and openings for correctional officer positions in North Carolina, you can visit the North Carolina Department of Corrections website. Additionally, job search websites such as Indeed.com and ZipRecruiter.com may also provide listings for available positions.
Considering the frequent updates of correctional officer job postings and openings, regular checks on these resources are necessary to stay abreast of the most recent opportunities. There is no specific information available regarding certain times of the year when more correctional officer job postings and openings may be available in North Carolina.
Submitting an Application
To apply for a correctional officer position in North Carolina, you must submit an application through the North Carolina Department of Public Safety website. The application form can be found on the website, along with instructions on how to complete and submit it.
When applying, you must provide the following documents:
Proof of age and citizenship
High school diploma or equivalent
Valid driver’s license
DD-214 form (for applicants with military experience)
Completed application forms
It is important to note that there are no fees associated with the application submission for a correctional officer position in North Carolina.
Preparing for Examinations and Interviews
With your application submitted, you can now begin prepping for the array of examinations and interviews integral to the North Carolina correctional officer application process. The North Carolina Department of Corrections may assess a person’s ability to become an employee by performing the Physical Ability Test (COPAT), conducting a written examination and a situational and psychological judgment test. Additionally, a series of interviews with officials from the North Carolina Department of Corrections will be held..
To enhance your chances of success in these examinations and interviews, consider:
Taking practice questions
Consulting study guides
Engaging in practice tests
Joining a pre-employment test preparation course or finding a nearby criminal justice college
Preparing for the physical examination test, COPAT.
During the interview process, you should be ready to discuss your qualifications, experience, and knowledge of the correctional system, as well as answer situational and behavioral questions that assess your communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and conflict resolution.
Training Programs for North Carolina Correctional Officers
Apart from the application process, training programs are fundamental to the success of correctional officers in North Carolina. There are training programs available for both state and federal correctional officers, as well as continuing education and professional development opportunities.
For state correctional officers, the Correctional Officer Basic (COB) Training is a 211-hour (6 weeks) program for Division of Prisons employees. Federal correctional officer recruits in North Carolina must attend a three-week law enforcement academy in Glynco, GA. It is important to be familiar with these training programs and their requirements to ensure a smooth transition into your new career as a correctional officer.
State Correctional Officer Training
To become a state correctional officer in North Carolina, you must complete the Correctional Officer Basic (COB) Training program, which is a 211-hour (6 weeks) program for Division of Prisons employees. This training program focuses on the following topics:
Firearms training
Self-defense tactics
Emergency medical response
Search procedures
Adherence to rules and procedures
State correctional officers in North Carolina must go through extensive training during their first year at a state prison. In addition to the COB Training, they must complete 200 hours of training at a regional training academy. These training programs ensure that correctional officers are well-equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their duties effectively and safely.
Federal Correctional Officer Training
For federal correctional officers in North Carolina, the training process includes three weeks of orientation training and 120 hours of specialized training at the U.S. Federal Bureau of Prisons. These training programs help develop skills such as oral communication, interpersonal skills, providing directions to inmates with authority, effective communication with colleagues and superiors, and sound judgment in high-risk scenarios.
It is important to note that the qualifications and requirements for federal correctional officers may vary depending on the specific position and location in North Carolina. However, completing the required training and meeting the necessary qualifications will ensure your readiness to serve as a federal correctional officer.
Continuing Education and Professional Development
For a long-term successful career as a correctional officer, it’s crucial to consistently maintain and enhance your skills. In North Carolina, there are numerous continuing education programs available for correctional officers, such as Wake Tech, the North Carolina Department of Justice, and the North Carolina Division of Prisons.
In addition to these programs, there are also professional development opportunities for correctional officers in North Carolina. Some of these opportunities include:
The Career Progression Program
Training programs offered by Wake Tech
The Office of Staff Development and Training (OSDT)
College credit programs
These programs provide officers with the opportunity to enhance their skills through additional training, stay abreast of the latest practices, and progress their careers.
Salary and Benefits for Correctional Officers in North Carolina
Working as a correctional officer in North Carolina, you’ll receive competitive salaries and exceptional benefits. Here are some key details about the salary:
The average salary for a correctional officer in North Carolina is $42,000 annually
The salary range is $22,000 to $53,063 per year
Factors that can influence salary include education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years of experience
In addition to salary, correctional officers in North Carolina also receive benefits such as:
Health insurance
Retirement plans
Paid time off
Educational assistance programs
These benefits and a competitive salary make a career as a correctional officer in North Carolina an attractive option for those interested in law enforcement.
Average Salary
The average salary for a correctional officer in North Carolina is $42,000 per year, with entry-level correctional officers earning an average of $39,980 annually or $19.22 per hour. However, it’s worth noting that the salary range for correctional officers in North Carolina varies, typically between $22,000 and $53,063 per year. Factors that can impact salary include:
Education
Certifications
Additional skills
Number of years of experience
Geographical location can also play a role in determining salary. For example, correctional officers in more urban areas, such as Charlotte, may earn higher salaries than those in more rural locations. Additionally, federal correctional officers may have a different salary range than state correctional officers, depending on the specific position and location.
Benefits and Retirement Plans
Correctional officers in North Carolina receive various benefits, including health insurance starting at a monthly rate of $25, along with vision and dental insurance. These benefits contribute to the overall compensation package for correctional officers, making the career an attractive option for those interested in law enforcement.
Retirement plans are also a significant benefit for correctional officers in North Carolina. Officers have access to retirement plans such as:
Law Enforcement Officers’ Retirement System (LEORS)
North Carolina Local Governmental Employees Retirement System (LGERS)
401(k)
Roth Savings Plans
457 Savings Plans
These retirement plans help ensure that correctional officers are well-prepared for their future.
Career Advancement Opportunities
In addition to competitive salaries and benefits, correctional officers in North Carolina have opportunities for career advancement. The Department of Public Safety offers job openings for correctional officers, providing chances for career advancement. Some career advancement opportunities include specialized training to become probation/parole officers or correctional food service officers, as well as opportunities for promotion to positions such as director of corrections or forensic science technician.
To advance in the correctional officer career path in North Carolina, you must:
Complete the Career Progression Program
Take relevant education and training courses
Accrue experience in related fields
Fulfill job requirements
Apply for promotion opportunities
These steps will help you progress your career and achieve greater success as a correctional officer, opening up new opportunities in corrections officer jobs.
Major Correctional Facilities in North Carolina
Working as a correctional officer in North Carolina may entail roles in state prisons, federal prisons, or county jails. These facilities play a crucial role in ensuring public safety and rehabilitating offenders. In North Carolina, there are approximately 30,000 inmates housed in 53 state prisons, with additional inmates housed in federal prisons and county jails throughout the state.
Understanding the major correctional facilities in North Carolina, including their locations and inmate populations, can help you make informed decisions about your career path as a correctional officer. In the next few sections, we’ll delve into the state prisons, federal prisons, and county jails that comprise North Carolina’s correctional system.
State Prisons
State prisons in North Carolina include the following facilities:
Columbus Correctional Institution
Davidson Correctional Center
Bertie Correctional Institution
Alexander Correctional Institution
Avery Mitchell Correctional Institution
Buncombe Correctional Center
Caldwell Correctional Center
Central Prison, located in Raleigh, is the largest state prison in North Carolina and was the first state prison completed in December 1884.
These state prisons house a diverse inmate population, with varying security levels and specialized programs. As a correctional officer in North Carolina, you may have the opportunity to work in one of these facilities and contribute to the safety and rehabilitation of the inmate population.
Federal Prisons
In addition to state prisons, there are also federal prisons in North Carolina. The Federal Correctional Complex, Butner, and FCI Butner Low are both located in Butner, North Carolina. These federal prisons house inmates convicted of federal crimes and serve as a crucial component of the nation’s correctional system.
As a federal correctional officer, you may have the opportunity to work in one of these facilities, which offer varying security levels and specialized programs for inmates. Working in a federal prison can provide valuable experience and potential for career advancement in the field of corrections.
County Jails
County jails in North Carolina also play an essential role in the state’s correctional system. Major county jails include:
Craven Correctional Institution
Warren Correctional Institution
Wayne County Detention Center
Cumberland County Detention Center
Franklin County Detention Complex
These facilities primarily house individuals awaiting trial or serving short sentences for misdemeanor offenses, often involving temporary custody.
Working in a county jail as a correctional officer can provide valuable experience in managing diverse inmate populations and navigating the unique challenges of local correctional facilities. As a correctional officer in North Carolina, you may have the opportunity to contribute to the safety and rehabilitation of inmates in county jails.
Tips for Success in the Correctional Officer Hiring Process
Success in the correctional officer hiring process in North Carolina begins with preparation. By taking the time to understand the requirements, qualifications, and application process, you can increase your chances of being hired as a correctional officer. Additionally, preparing for examinations and interviews, maintaining physical fitness, and staying informed about the latest developments in the field of corrections can contribute to your overall success in the hiring process.
The following sections will provide valuable tips and advice to help you succeed in the correctional officer hiring process, covering topics from examination preparation, acing the interview, to maintaining physical fitness.
Preparing for Examinations
Adequate preparation is crucial for excelling in the correctional officer examinations in North Carolina. This includes:
Taking practice questions
Consulting study guides
Engaging in practice tests
Locating a nearby criminal justice college or enrolling in a pre-employment test preparation course
Being prepared for the physical examination test known as COPAT
The North Carolina correctional officer examination evaluates competencies such as general knowledge, basic skills, career-specific aptitude, and physical abilities.
By dedicating time and effort to preparing for these examinations, you can increase your chances of success in the hiring process. Additionally, seeking guidance and support from experienced professionals, such as current or former correctional officers, can provide valuable insights into the examination process and help you identify areas for improvement.
Acing the Interview
The interview portion of the correctional officer application process is a critical opportunity to showcase your qualifications, experience, and knowledge of the correctional system. To excel in the interview, you should:
Practice attentive listening
Provide clear and concise responses
Support your answers with examples or experiences that showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to manage challenging situations
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success in the interview.
Additionally, remaining calm and composed throughout the interview is crucial, as it demonstrates your ability to think critically and make sound decisions in challenging scenarios. By practicing your interview skills and familiarizing yourself with common interview questions, you can increase your confidence and improve your chances of success in the hiring process.
Physical Fitness Preparation
For success as a correctional officer in North Carolina, maintaining and enhancing your physical fitness is critical. To meet the physical fitness requirements, you must pass the Correctional Officer Physical Abilities Test (COPAT), which includes:
Step test
Sit-ups
Push-ups
Lunges
Grip strength
Additionally, you must meet the physical requirements stipulated by the NC Criminal Justice Training and Standards Commission.
To prepare for these physical fitness tests, it is recommended to engage in a combination of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and agility drills. These exercises can help improve endurance, strength, and overall physical fitness, which is essential for being able to handle the physical demands of the job. Moreover, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and participating in regular physical activity can contribute to overall well-being and stress management.
Summary
In conclusion, becoming a correctional officer in North Carolina is a rewarding career path that offers competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and opportunities for advancement. By understanding the requirements and eligibility criteria, navigating the application process, and dedicating time and effort to preparing for examinations and interviews, you can increase your chances of success in this challenging and fulfilling profession. Remember, maintaining physical fitness and staying informed about the latest developments in the field of corrections are essential for long-term success as a correctional officer in North Carolina.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is correctional officer training in NC?
In North Carolina, correctional officers must complete 200 hours of training at a regional training academy during their first year of employment.
What are the requirements to be a correctional officer in North Carolina?
To be eligible as a correctional officer in North Carolina, you must be a U.S. citizen over 20 years of age with a high school diploma (two- or four-year college degree preferred) and criminal justice certification.
Are correctional officers considered law enforcement in North Carolina?
Yes, correctional officers are considered law enforcement in North Carolina as they are sworn officers with the power of arrest and are part of all departments of the criminal justice agencies.
What are the minimum education requirements for becoming a correctional officer in North Carolina?
To become a correctional officer in North Carolina, you must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
What are the age and citizenship requirements for correctional officer applicants in North Carolina?
Applicants must be at least 20 years old and US citizens to qualify for correctional officer positions in North Carolina.