CORRECTIONAL OFFICER 1* - 08252026-80318

Opening: 08/25/2026 12:00 AM – 09/07/2026 11:59 PM Central Time. Five positions in Tiptonville, TN (Lake County) with the Department of Correction. Motor Vehicle Records screening and criminal background check required. New hires receive a $5,000 sign-on bonus over 18 months. Hiring rate starts at $4,267 per month.

Pay

• Monthly: $3,631.00 – $5,434.00
• Annually: $43,572.00 – $65,208.00

Schedule

Full-time. Rotating shifts and post assignments; preferences are considered but not guaranteed.

Overview

The Correctional Officer 1 is the entry-level position in the Correctional Officer sub-series. Responsibilities include custody, transport, and rehabilitation of inmates at a state penal institution. After a mandatory one-year training period, successful employees are reclassified to Correctional Officer 2; inadequate performance results in demotion or termination.

Qualifications

• Education equivalent to graduation from a standard high school.
• Must be at least 18 years old on the date of application.
• U.S. citizenship.
• Good moral character, as determined by investigation.
• No felony convictions or dishonorable discharge from the U.S. armed forces.
• Pass a physical examination and psychological evaluation consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
• Pass a pre-employment drug screening.
• Possess a valid motor vehicle operator’s license at the time of appointment (required for some positions).
• Successfully complete a prescribed course of instruction at the Tennessee Correction Academy.
• Willing and able to qualify with, carry, and use assigned weapons.

Responsibilities

• Supervise inmate activities in housing units, dining areas, recreation, and work areas; attend to medical, visitation, personal property, and recreational needs.
• Inspect and patrol grounds for contraband, unauthorized personnel, and security risks.
• Process new inmates: assign accommodations, search for contraband, issue clothing, and store personal property.
• Observe and evaluate inmate behavior, hygiene, and attitudes; report evaluations to the counseling department.
• Attend staff meetings, disciplinary board meetings, and training for riot control, escape prevention, and first aid.
• Prepare reports: daily logs, disciplinary reports, inmate job/pay records, daily counts, and supply requisitions.
• Operate equipment: two-way radios, firearms, mace, electronic gates, television cameras, and motor vehicles.
• Ensure resident safety through daily supervision.
• Intervene in fights or dangerous situations using persuasion or physical force.
• Communicate and enforce existing policies and procedures.