CORRECTIONS OFFICER

Position Number: 22085749 | County: Lincoln | Posting End Date: 12/31/2026 | Location: Varner Unit - Grady

About the role

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. This position is located at the Varner Unit in Grady.

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.

Requirements

The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma is required. Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Qualifications

Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee.

Skills

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

Pay

Anticipated starting salary: $50,845.00. Salary range: $50,845 – $75,251. Pay grade: LES02.