First-Line Supervisor of Correctional Officers: Job Description, Requirements, and Advancement

In a prison or correctional facility, there are a lot of people working together to make it run smoothly. The first-line supervisor of correctional officers is one of the key roles in that environment. They’re responsible for supervising and coordinating activities and personnel in the facility, particularly in the area of security. Their job is to ensure that the overall operation of the facility is maintained, and the inmates are safe while inside the facility. They’re also in charge of enforcing rules and regulations, issuing directives, and solving any problems that may arise.

Examples of First-Line Supervisor of Correctional Officers Responsibilities:

• Monitoring the activities of correctional officers, guards, and other personnel.
• Training and guiding new correctional officers in their individual roles.
• Evaluate security levels and take corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure that all equipment necessary for security, such as cameras, alarms, and radios are working properly.
• Manage staffing levels to ensure that the facility is fully staffed at all times.

Education and Training:

Most first-line supervisors of correctional officers have experience working as a correctional officer. In addition to working their way through the ranks, they have usually taken courses in criminal justice, law enforcement, or corrections. Some states require first-line supervisors to hold a degree from an accredited college or university in a related field. Many facilities also offer on-the-job training to help them develop their skills in the field.

Advancement:

Advancement for first-line supervisors of correctional officers typically means moving into higher supervisory positions. They could become a lieutenant or captain with additional responsibility in the facility. Others may opt for administration that manages the prison in an office environment.

Getting Into the Field:

For those who are new to the field, the path to becoming a first-line supervisor of correctional officers usually involves working as a correctional officer. Candidates can expect to undergo a background check and drug screening, at the very minimum. Many states also require passing a physical fitness test; applicants should look into specific facility requirements beforehand. After gaining some experience in the role, they can start seeking out supervisory positions. Keeping up with training and education can also help them stand out as strong candidates for new positions.

First-line supervisors of correctional officers are responsible for managing and directing the work of correctional officers. This occupation requires strong leadership skills, the ability to make quick decisions, and attention to detail. The job level for this occupation is usually Level 07, but it can vary depending on the employer.

The national average salary for First-line supervisors of correctional officers is $69,721.60, according to the data provided. It is important to note that the salary data can vary depending on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, and education.

The effects of unions on this job can be seen in the data. Union workers in this occupation earn a higher salary on average than non-union workers. The average salary for union workers is $89,252.80, compared to $80,704.00 for non-union workers.

According to the data, the best-paid geographies for First-line supervisors of correctional officers are Washington D.C. and Alaska, with an average salary of $101,550.40 and $96,862.40, respectively. The least-paid geographies are Puerto Rico and Mississippi, with an average salary of $35,788.80 and $44,054.40, respectively.

The following table summarizes the salary data for First-line supervisors of correctional officers:

|Geography|Job Level|Salary|
|—|—|—|
|US National Average|Level 07|$69,721.60|
|US National Average|Not able to be leveled|$54,267.20|
|US National Average|Entry|$62,379.20|
|US National Average|Union – All levels|$89,252.80|
|US National Average|Full-time – All levels|$70,803.20|
|US National Average|Full-time – Level 07|$69,721.60|
|US National Average|Full-time – Not able to be leveled|$54,392.00|
|US National Average|Full-time – Entry|$64,646.40|
|Washington D.C.|N/A|$101,550.40|
|Alaska|N/A|$96,862.40|
|Puerto Rico|N/A|$35,788.80|
|Mississippi|N/A|$44,054.40|