As a Correctional Officer, I monitor, supervise, interact with and support prisoners as they work towards their rehabilitation goals.

The role of a Correctional Officer is one of significant responsibility. We are more than just security officers, we are case managers responsible for facilitating meaningful rehabilitation so that our prisoners may reintegrate into society and make a positive contribution to their communities. To reflect this level of responsibility the recruitment process for our Correctional Officers will involve a number of steps. We will guide and support you through this process.

Some of the key milestones in our recruitment process include:

  • submission of an online application
  • aptitude and psychometric testing
  • panel interview
  • verification of your employment history
  • pre-employment medical (including drug and alcohol testing) and functional assessment and
  • police and probity background checks

What are we looking for in a correctional officer?

  • to be reasonably fit and healthy and to be able to complete successfully a fitness test
  • good eyesight and hearing
  • people with an enthusiasm for prisoner rehabilitation
  • people wanting to assume the responsibility of prisoner case management and a desire to engage with prisoners on understanding their goals and helping them work toward achieving them
  • people who can balance the rehabilitative needs of prisoners and the safety and security of staff and prisoners
  • effective communication skills
  • the ability to maintain professional boundaries whilst engaging with prisoners
  • the ability to maintain a satisfactory security clearance
  • the ability to work in a multi-disciplinary team to provide rehabilitation to prisoners
  • the ability to work shift work that involves a 7-day rotating roster including both day and night shifts

Pre-Service Training

Successful candidates will be required to participate in a full-time, paid pre-service program that will develop your knowledge and skills prior to commencing employment within the Correctional Centre. The length of the pre-service course will vary depending on which state you are employed.

You don’t need to have any qualifications to participate in in our pre-service program however you will need some life experience. We will work closely with you during the pre-service training and beyond to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to become a Correctional Officer.

The core-service program is dynamic, interactive and will focus on transferring practical skills that will assist you on the job. You will spend time shadowing our experienced Correctional Officers and Supervisors within the Correctional Centre and you will participate in simulated scenarios that will build on your confidence and knowledge in a safe and secure environment.

Can I apply for this position if I have a criminal record?

Each candidate will undergo a rigorous vetting process and will be assessed on a case by case basis to determine suitability.

If you have served a custodial sentence as a result of your criminal charges, you will not be eligible for employment.

We have an expectation that all candidates are upfront and honest in their application for employment. Failure to declare a criminal history will jeopardise your opportunity for employment with us.

If you are still unsure of a career in corrections is for you, please download GEO’s Self-Assessment Sheet.