O'Mara issues reminder on correction officer recruitment ~ Deadline for submitting application is November 25 ~ Find out more

Elmira, N.Y., November 21—State Senator Tom O’Mara (R-C, Big Flats) reminded area residents today that the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) is currently undertaking a statewide correction officer recruitment effort.

A state Civil Service examination to fill new positions has been scheduled for January 10, 2015.  

Anyone interested in taking the exam must file an application by next Tuesday, November 25, 2014.

“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 O’Mara.  “New York State’s correction officers are among our bravest, most dedicated, respected and valuable public servants.”

According to DOCCS, a correction officer trainee’s starting salary is currently $39,794 annually.  The salary increases to $41,858 after six months.  Following the successful completion of a one-year traineeship, the salary increases to $47,930 per year.

O’Mara 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 DOCCS.  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.

O’Mara said that interested applicants can apply on-line or download examination information and applications at the state Department of Civil Service website: www.cs.ny.gov/exams.

Additional information is also available on the DOCCS website: www.doccs.ny.gov.