Correctional Officer I

Role Overview

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) is recruiting Correctional Officers I across various units statewide. In this capacity, officers supervise inmate work groups, enforce discipline, and prevent escapes under strict operational rules and guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and oversee the activities of inmate labor teams ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Maintain order and enforce discipline within correctional facilities following established policies.
• Implement security measures aimed at preventing inmate escapes.

Qualifications & Eligibility

• Applicants must have graduated from an accredited high school or possess an equivalent General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
• Successful completion of a TDCJ-approved college Correctional Officer Training program or the TDCJ Correctional Officer Pre-Service Training Academy is mandatory.
• Additional qualifications improve candidacy: at least 13 months of full-time corrections or law enforcement experience; or completion of two years active military service with Honorable or General under Honorable discharge evidenced by DD214; or earning an Associate's degree or higher from a CHEA-accredited institution.
• Employment continuation depends on passing required examinations and skills assessments.

Employment Conditions & Additional Information

• Valid, government-issued photo ID, social security card or work authorization, and education proof (diploma/transcript) must be submitted with the application.
• Applicants must provide a resume and a fully completed application detailing all work history post-18th birthday or high school graduation with explanations for employment gaps exceeding three months.
• Applicants can apply for multiple TDCJ units with a single application, specifying desired locations in the Statement of Availability. Application validity is one year and must be renewed annually if beyond this period.
• A drug test is mandatory as part of employment conditions.
• This position is classified as hazardous duty and longevity applies.
• Retiree salary is typically 2.5% lower than posted salary levels.
• The role requires no travel apart from potential day trips; overnight travel is not necessary.
• Military preference is honored with proper documentation.

Contact Information

Candidates with queries can reach out to Michelle Coker at TDCJ Human Resources Headquarters, 2 Financial Plaza, STE 100, Huntsville, TX 77340; phone: (936) 437-3219; email: michelle.coker@tdcj.texas.gov.