Larkin Announces Next Corrections Officer Exam

This week, Senator Bill Larkin informs area residents that a Civil Service exam for the position of Correction Officer Trainee will be given statewide on April 8, 2006. The application deadline for this exam is February 20, 2006.

The starting annual salary for an Officer Trainee is $28,444. After six months, the salary increases to $30,043. Upon successful completion of the eight-week training program and the one-year probationary period, the annual salary increases again to $34,742. Officers also receive a comprehensive health insurance program benefits package and retirement program.

Individuals interested in taking April’s exam must complete an application and forward it along with a non-refundable $30 application fee. Applications can be obtained from the New York State Department of Civil Service, and also at local New York State Employment Offices, regional Civil Service offices and state correctional facilities.

Applications can also be obtained by contacting the DOCS Correction Officer Recruitment Unit at Building 2, State Office Campus, 1220 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY., 12226, (518) 457-9887; or via the internet at the Department’s web site at www.docs.state.ny.us.

In addition, those completing the training and probationary programs earn 16 college credits toward a post-secondary degree. They can then qualify to take exams for the positions of sergeant, lieutenant and then captain, before being considered for an appointment as a deputy superintendent or superintendent.

To take the written exam, individuals must be at least 18 years of age and in good physical and mental health. Conviction for a felony automatically disqualifies anyone from becoming an Officer. Misdemeanor convictions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine eligibility. At the time of appointment, candidates must be U.S. citizens, at least 21 years old, New York State residents and possess either a high school diploma or GED.