Corrections officers have direct contact with prisoners and ensure orderly functioning of the prison environment. Due to the demanding nature of the position, there is a thorough application and training process. The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections requires all corrections officer candidates be at least 21 years old and residents in the state of Pennsylvania. Offers of employment are conditioned upon passing a civil service exam, physical examinations, and a moral character evaluation.
Online Application for Pennsylvania Corrections Officer
Fill out the online application for a corrections officer position on the Pennsylvania State Civil Service Commission website. Completing an online application requires setting up an account with a user id and password. Alternatively, contact a State Civil Service Commission office and request a paper application. Mail the completed paper application to the State Civil Service Commission, ATTN: Applications, P.O. Box 569, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0569.
Pennsylvania Civil Service Commission Examination
Pass the State Civil Service Commission Examination. The three hour computer exam consists of 120 questions. Some of the topics covered on the exam include the rules and procedures of the corrections system, and showing the ability to follow instructions. The exam also assesses problem solving skills and observational skills. The exam is administered on weekdays at the State Civil Service Commission offices located in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Harrisburg. Test results are sent in the mail. Contact the Commission's Information Services Unit at (717) 787-7811 if there are any questions regarding test dates, testing accommodations, and locations.
Background Check and Psychological Evaluation
Pass the drug test screening, medical examination, and physical fitness test. Successfully passing the psychological evaluation and background check is also required. Convictions based on violent criminal offenses or domestic abuse charges disqualify an applicant from being employed as a corrections officer within the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.
Training Program during Probationary Period
Complete a one year training program. Training includes classroom instruction at the Department of Corrections' Training Academy located in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. Learning how to monitor inmate activity, performing security checks, and demonstrating firearm proficiency are part of the training program. Successfully completing all aspects of the training is required in order to remain employed.
The Career Opportunities section of the Pennsylvania State Civil Service Commission website lists all of the most up-to-date information regarding the position. Click on the link next to the Corrections Officer Trainee job title for additional information regarding the application process, testing, and training.
Pamela Parker - Pamela Parker is a freelance writer who enjoys writing about various legal issues. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology ...
