Correction Officer Guide

Key Job Duties

What you will act and execute daily upon appointment:

• Maintain security and take responsibility for the care, custody, control, job training, and work performance of sentenced and detained inmates within New York City correctional facilities.
• Supervise inmate meals, visits, recreational programs, and other congregate activities.
• Inspect assigned areas for conditions which threaten safety and security, and conduct searches in order to detect contraband.
• Complete forms and reports, maintain appropriate log books, and communicate with other area Correction Officers to exchange pertinent information.
• Issue verbal orders, announcements, and explanations to inmates; observe inmates and make recommendations concerning medical and/or psychiatric referrals.
• Safeguard Department supplies and equipment, and escort inmates within and outside of the facility including transportation in Departmental vehicles.
• Respond to unusual incidents and disturbances, and enforce security procedures in accordance with Department guidelines.
• Request medical assistance for inmates when necessary; count and verify the number of inmates present in assigned areas; verify identification of inmates; supervise inmates of either sex; operate a motor vehicle; and perform related work.

Filing & Appointment Eligibility

Candidates must fulfill these rules BEFORE certification:

• Pathway 1: At least 39 semester credits at an accredited college or university. Satisfactory completion of Academy training will provide an additional 21 semester credits for a total of 60 semester credits.
• Pathway 2: A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent, AND either: (a) at least 6 months of honorable full-time U.S. military service; (b) at least 6 months of full-time, satisfactory experience in social services or casework dealing directly with clients, mental health counseling, or services to the homeless; or (c) at least 6 months in Law Enforcement positions (Police Officer, Peace Officer, Special Patrolman, or Federal/State equivalent).
• Pathway 3: A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent and at least 1 year of satisfactory, full-time paid general work experience.
• Pathway 4: Two years of active service in the Army Reserve, Army National Guard, Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, Marine Corps Reserve, or Coast Guard Reserve with an honorable discharge (time spent in the IRR does not count).
• Age Requirement: You must be at least 17 years of age by the date you take the multiple-choice test. Additionally, you must have attained age 21 to be appointed as a Correction Officer.
• Driver License Requirement: You must possess a New York State learner's permit at the time of appointment and must obtain a valid driver license from the State of New York prior to graduating from the Department of Correction Academy. You must maintain a NYS driver license for the duration of your employment.
• Character and Background: Proof of good character and satisfactory background investigation are absolute prerequisites to appointment (includes a $75.00 fingerprint screening fee). Persons convicted of a felony or domestic violence misdemeanor are not eligible.
• Medical and Psychological Assessment: Medical and psychological guidelines have been established. Candidates will be examined to determine whether they can perform the essential functions of a Correction Officer.
• Physical Testing: Physical standards have been established. Candidates must pass a qualifying physical test, and may be required to undergo periodic physical testing throughout their career.
• Drug Testing: Candidates must pass a drug screening prior to appointment. A strict zero tolerance policy concerning illegal drug use is enforced.
• Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA): Compliance with Federal PREA regulations is mandatory for hiring and promotion.
• Residency: New York State Public Officers Law requires that at the date of appointment, you must be a resident of the City of New York or Nassau, Westchester, Suffolk, Orange, Rockland, or Putnam counties.
• Citizenship & Language: United States citizenship is required at the time of appointment. Candidates must be able to understand and be understood in English.

Official Exam Syllabus & Cognitive Skill Focus

Knowledge areas, trade competencies, and cognitive abilities evaluated by DCAS:

Physical Demands & Environmental Conditions

Physical activities performed and environments experienced in this role:

• Walking and/or standing in an assigned area for 8 ½ to 17 hours continuously.
• Walking up several flights of stairs and working outdoors in all kinds of weather.
• Exposure to chemical agents and being subjected to close contact with inmates.
• Possible physical restraint of an inmate and interactions with different inmate categories (e.g., inmates under mental health observation).
• Responding to various incidents as required; carrying or donning heavy equipment; lifting/moving heavy objects.

Special Working Conditions

Operational environments and agency-specific criteria:

• Shift Schedules: Required to work various shifts including nights, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
• Peace Officer Status: Must satisfy and maintain New York State requirements for Peace Officers for the duration of employment.
• Probationary Period: 24 months, including required successful completion of the Department of Correction Academy training course.
• Firearms Qualifications: Must qualify and remain qualified annually for firearms usage as a condition of employment.
• Drug Policy: Strict zero tolerance policy concerning illegal drug use with pre-employment and ongoing random testing.