How to Become a Correctional Officer in Massachusetts

Correctional officers complete a 10-week basic training program to work with inmates.

Correctional officers generally work in jails or prisons, and are responsible for the safety of inmates and fellow officers, as well as ensuring that the prisoners carry out their imposed sentences. Many law enforcement agencies require candidates without a college degree to first serve as a correctional officer before they can be considered for police officer positions. In Massachusetts, correctional officers must undergo rigorous training to prepare them for the position, in addition to passing various physical and mental challenges.

Instructions

1. Download and complete the Massachusetts Government Employment Application (see Resources). Turn in the application to the department of corrections, typically located at the county jail of the county in which you would like to work. The application is a fairly standard application, requiring basic information such as your name, address, telephone number, work history, criminal background, references and more. You will also need to give authorization for the state to perform a criminal background check and possibly a credit check.

2. Study for and take the Civil Service, or CO I exam which helps to display your writing abilities, ability to gather information, ability to read and comprehend information, attention to detail, analytical skills and note-taking abilities. Your local jail or police station can provide test-taking times and locations. See Resources for a study guide.

3. Wait for the results of your criminal history background check and the CO I exam. If approved, you will be contacted by the Division of Human Resources to schedule an interview.

4. Bring two copies of your application to the interview, along with a valid driver's license, birth certificate, GED or high school/college transcripts and your Social Security card. If approved following the interview, you will go through a pre-screening process that tests your physical abilities, and further tests your reasoning, decision making and problem solving abilities.

5. Complete the 10-week Basic Training Academy once you have passed the pre-screening process. The Basic Training Academy familiarizes candidates with the processes, responsibilities and duties of a correctional officer in the state of Massachusetts. Once you have completed the Basic Training Academy you will be integrated into the system as a correctional officer.

Tips & Warnings

• Candidates with a college degree earn higher wages, depending on their level of degree.

• Check with your local jails and prisons for job openings.

References

• Massachusetts Office of Public Safety and Security: CO I - Frequently Asked Questions
• Massachusetts Office of Public Safety and Security: Recruitment

Resources

• Massachusetts Office of Public Safety and Security: CO I Exam Preparation Booklet
• Massachusetts Office of Public Safety and Security: Employment Application