How to Become a Good Correctional Officer
- 1). Find out everything you can about the field before you enter it. Talk to veteran correctional officers to learn the positive and negative aspects of the job. Analyze your skills and personality to see whether you'll be a good fit for this demanding position.
- 2). Expect a thorough personal investigation. You can't have any felony convictions. You'll be tested for drugs and will undergo a background check. Only U.S. citizens in good health are eligible to serve.
- 3). Get a high school diploma or GED. A bachelor's degree is required for some positions, usually in the federal correctional system. Your college coursework should include fields relating to criminal justice, such as counseling and corrections work.
- 4). Gain experience in a field pertaining to corrections. A stint as as counselor or social worker can make you more employable and help you become a better correctional officer.
- 5). Apply for a job in a federal, state or county institution. Depending on the correctional system, you will receive training off-site and additional training on the job. To excel, find a mentor or two and emulate what they do. Watching a good officer on the job is as important as doing well in a training program.
