Co Exam Scheduled For April 14, 2007

Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, Cornwall-on-Hudson) today announced that a Civil Service exam for the position of Correction Officer Trainee will be given statewide on April 14, 2007. The application deadline for this exam is February 26, 2007.

The starting annual salary for a Correction Officer Trainee is $34,329. Upon successful completion of the one-year training program, the annual salary increases to $41,348. Salaries are subject to increase pending outcome of current contract negotiations. Officers also receive a comprehensive health insurance program benefits package and retirement program.

Individuals interested in taking September’s exam must complete an application and forward it along with a non-refundable $30 application fee to the New York State Department of Civil Service at Building One, State Office Campus, Albany, N.Y., 12239. Applications can be obtained from that office or their web site (www.cs.state.ny.us/exams), and also at local New York State Employment Offices, regional Civil Service offices and state correctional facilities.

Additionally, 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 or via the internet at the Department’s web site: www.docs.state.ny.us. Click on "Jobs Available."

To take this 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.

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.