Correction Officer Recruitment Effort Announced

State Senator Catharine "Cathy" Young (R,I,C - Olean), in conjunction with the New York State Department of Corrections, has announced a new exam for correction officers. It will be held November 19, 2005, with a filing deadline of October 3, 2005, under the auspices of the New York State Department of Civil Service.

Correction officer positions are located throughout the state in various correctional facilities. Under the direct supervision of a higher-ranking officer, correction officers are responsible for the custody and security, as well as the safety and well-being of criminal offenders. Officers supervise the movement and activities of inmates, make periodic rounds of assigned areas, conduct searches for contraband, maintain order within the facility, and prepare reports as necessary. Officers advise inmates on the rules and regulations governing the operation of the facility and assist them in resolving problems. They have a high degree of responsibility for their actions and decisions and may also be required to carry firearms in the performance of certain duties and to perform other related work as required.

After successful completion of the one-year correction officer traineeship, the salary increases to $34,742 per year from $28,444 during the first six months of training.

For a correction officer fact sheet that briefly describes the salary and benefits available to employees serving in correction officer positions, along with an exam announcement and map of correctional facilities, call Senator Young’s Albany Office at 518-455-3563, email the request to Senator Young at cyoung@senate.state.ny.us, or visit the Department of Corrections website at www.docs.state.ny.us.