Correctional Officer I (Northwest State Correctional Facility)

ABOUT THE ROLE The Vermont Department of Corrections is seeking permanent Correctional Officers for the Northwest State Correctional Facility in St. Albans. This entry-level position offers intensive training that blends security work, human services, and leadership opportunities. The role operates on an innovative 2-2-3 schedule to provide better work-life balance, featuring predictable rotations, regular periods of rest, and fewer workdays per year (approximately 180 days). The position includes a comprehensive benefits package worth approximately 30% of total compensation. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Perform security duties within a correctional facility - Provide human services and support inmate rehabilitation - Supervise and transport inmates inside and outside the facility - Respond to high-stress situations and potential physical assaults - Participate in evacuation procedures and search/rescue functions if necessary - Don self-contained breathing apparatus as required by OSHA standards - Work overtime and emergency duty as needed to maintain safe staffing levels MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Option 1: High school graduation or equivalent AND two (2) years or more of full-time work experience. Option 2: One (1) year or more of college-level coursework AND one (1) year or more of full-time work experience. Option 3: Two (2) years or more of college-level coursework. Physical Requirements: - Adequate physical condition to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation - Ability to don a self-contained breathing apparatus and perform evacuation procedures - Must pass a medical evaluation to determine fitness to wear a respirator (OS CFR 1910.134(e)) PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - Experience working in a correctional setting - Military experience SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Valid motor vehicle operator's license - Must pass background investigations including criminal record checks, DMV checks, and adult/child abuse registry checks - Felony convictions require a waiver from the Commissioner of Corrections - Misdemeanor convictions within the past five years requiring supervision or sanctions make candidates ineligible without a waiver - Must comply with Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) requirements regarding prior institutional employment history - Overtime work is required and considered a condition of employment - Must attend and pass annual mandated training - Ability to work weekends and holidays as required SELECTION PROCESS - Recruitment is ongoing; position is open until filled - Multiple positions may be filled from this posting - Resumes will not be accepted via email; online application is mandatory - Background checks and PREA verification will be conducted HOW TO APPLY - Apply online through the State of Vermont careers portal (link not provided in text, but online application is required) - For more information, contact Sabrina Corliss at Sabrina.Corliss@vermont.gov - Note: Do not email resumes directly EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: St. Albans, VT (Northwest State Correctional Facility) - Position Type: Permanent, Full-Time - Schedule: 2-2-3 rotation (two days on, two days off, three days on, two days off) - Shifts: 6am - 6pm or 6pm - 6am (assigned by seniority and facility needs) - Benefits Package Includes: - 80% State-paid medical premium and dental plan at no cost for employees and families - 12 paid holidays per year and generous leave plan - State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI) - Defined benefit pension plan and deferred compensation 457(b) plan - Tuition reimbursement - Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts - Low-cost group life insurance - Incentive-based Wellness Program - Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program