State Correction Officer Recruitment Effort Underway

Elmira, N.Y.-- State Senator George H. Winner, Jr. (R-C, Elmira) today reminded area residents that the New York State Department of Correctional Services is currently undertaking a statewide Correction Officer recruitment effort.

A state Civil Service examination for the new positions has been scheduled for October 27, 2007. Those interested in taking the examination must file an application by September 10.

"A New York State correction officer performs an admirable public service and plays a vital, indispensable role within our correctional facilities. It’s a difficult, demanding and sometimes dangerous occupation, but it has provided a meaningful and worthwhile livelihood for thousands of New Yorkers," said Winner. "New York State’s correction officers are among our bravest, most dedicated, respected and valuable public servants."

According to the state Department of Correctional Services, a Correction Officer Trainee’s starting salary is currently $34,329 annually. Following the successful completion of a one-year traineeship, the salary increases to $41,348 per year. Winner said that interested applicants must be at least 21 years old; a high school graduate or have a high school equivalency diploma; a United States citizen; and, at the time of appointment, a resident of New York State.

Correction Officers fill the majority of the jobs within the Department of Correctional Services. In addition to passing the written Civil Service examination, applicants must undergo extensive medical, psychological and background reviews. The positions are located throughout New York State in the department’s various facilities, where officers are responsible for the custody and security, as well as the safety and well-being, of inmates.

Winner said that exam packets, including announcements, fact sheets and applications, are available by contacting his district office in Elmira (228 Lake Street, telephone 732-2765) or Bath (105 E. Steuben Street, telephone 776-3201). Or click below on CONTACT INFO toe-maila request.

Exam packets can also be obtained at all New York State Department of Labor offices and at all state correctional facilities. The examination announcement and application forms also can be downloaded from the Department of Correctional Services web site.