CORRECTIONS OFFICER

Mission

The mission of the Department of Corrections is to be a public safety resource for Arkansas families by providing professional management solutions and evidence‑based rehabilitative initiatives for offenders.

Position Information

• Job Series: Corrections Officers – Career‑path
• Classification: Corrections Officer
• Class Code: SCO05P
• Pay Grade: LES02

Location

Phillips County Detention Center – Helena, Phillips County

Pay

Anticipated Starting Salary: $50,845.00

Salary Range: $50,845 – $75,251

Job Summary

The Corrections Officer is responsible for maintaining security and overseeing the work and behavior of inmates in a correctional facility. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.

Primary Responsibilities

• Supervise the security and conduct of inmates in cells, during group meetings, meals, recreation, visitations, and work assignments.
• Maintain perimeter security by monitoring the facility for escapees and/or disturbances.
• Perform security checks of buildings and grounds, including shakedowns and searches of inmates.
• Maintain logs for work‑release inmates and write incident reports.
• Escort inmates to visitations, court, and work assignments.
• Attend shift briefings to discuss incidents, problems, and weak points in security.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge and Skills

• Ability to manage and de‑escalate high‑tension situations calmly and effectively.
• Proficiency in monitoring behaviors and identifying potential security risks.
• Capability to monitor inmate activities and write detailed reports.
• Physical stamina to perform demanding tasks, including emergency responses.
• Quick and sound decision‑making in high‑stress or emergency situations.
• Competence in self‑defense tactics when necessary.

Minimum Qualifications

The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma.

Licensure/Certifications

None required.

Additional Information

All DOC positions are designated as Safety Sensitive Positions and are subject to random drug testing pursuant to the Secretarial Directive governing Personnel Drug Testing. Medical marijuana usage, as defined in Amendment 93 of the Arkansas Constitution, prohibits personnel in a safety‑sensitive position from use of medical marijuana, even if they are a qualifying patient or hold a registry identification card. Department personnel are prohibited from the use or possession of a medicinal marijuana card pursuant to this policy and state law.