The requirements to become a prison officer vary by jurisdiction, but most require a high school diploma or its equivalent. Many positions require a college degree in addition to citizenship, and applicants are expected to meet certain age requirements as well as complete prison officer training. Individuals applying for such positions must be able to satisfactorily pass all background investigations, as well as be able to endure rigorous physical activity. If you meet the basic requirements to become a prison officer, you may look for available positions on government websites and other places where available positions within prison systems are advertised. You may also find it helpful to start your effort to become a prison officer by working in another law enforcement capacity first.
In many jurisdictions, military experience helps individuals obtain a job as a prison officer. Additionally, experience in other law enforcement positions bodes very well for those hoping to work within prison systems. Firearm training is also required to become a prison officer.
Prison officer requirements vary according to the type of officer you are applying to become, as well as the correctional system you hope to work in. A variety of options exist within this career choice including prison guards, bailiffs, wardens and other supervisory positions. For all such prison officer duties, however, you must have strong written and verbal communication skills, an ability to work well with others, be available to work long hours and flexible shifts, and be comfortable working under often hazardous, dangerous and stressful conditions. Another very important quality needed to become a prison officer is the ability to control large and potentially unruly or hostile crowds.
Once you have determined that you meet the basic requirements to become a prison officer, you may begin applying for available positions. Such jobs are often posted on websites where other government jobs are posted, which sometimes includes websites directly associated with the correctional facilities that you have an interest in working with. In some areas, special telephone lines with pre-recorded job information exist and prison officer jobs may be offered in that format. You may also become a prison officer by obtaining employment in another law enforcement position while waiting for a position to open in a local jail or prison. It is not unusual for some prison systems to hire from a pool of officers who are already working in local or federal law enforcement positions.
