The Department of Corrections is focused on public safety through the custody and supervision of those in our care. Corrections employees have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of others through careers in a variety of fields. Using cutting-edge research and evidence-based approaches, employees implement lasting change with a positive impact for the people of Wisconsin.
The DOC is seeking highly motivated individuals interested in criminal justice and public safety to join our team. We are hiring for all locations! For a complete listing of our locations, including a map, please click here.
Please note, as public safety employees, telecommuting is not an option for these positions. The Department of Corrections is still dedicated to protecting the health and well-being of our staff and persons in our care. In our effort to mitigate the impact and potential spread of COVID-19, we have implemented several preventative measures to maintain a safe environment for those living and working in our state’s correctional facilities. For more details see COVID19 FAQs.
DOC is a great place to work! In addition to meaningful and rewarding work, we offer a competitive benefits package featuring:
Substantial leave time including at least 3.5 weeks of vacation to start, 9 paid holidays, and ample accrued sick time that rolls over each year.
Excellent and affordable health, vision, and dental benefits
An exceptional pension plan with employer match and lifetime retirement payment, plus an optional tax advantaged 457 retirement savings plan
Well Wisconsin Wellness Program
A free and confidential employee assistance program that offers employees and their immediate family dependents a variety of tools, resources, and professional consultation services to support their health, goals, and overall well-being
Position Summary
Correctional Officers are responsible for ensuring the security, custody, control, and treatment of persons in our care in DOC facilities. Correctional Officers have the ability to make a positive difference in the lives of others and are an integral part of the criminal justice system.
Salary Information
This position is in pay schedule/range 05-31 with starting base pay of $19.89/hour, plus a $4.00/hour add-on ($23.89 total). These positions also offer excellent benefits, including protective retirement status. Future increases will be in accordance with the Compensation Plan, and are currently scheduled at intervals of 1, 2, 3, 5, 10, 15, and 20 years. Differential pay is available for certain night and weekend shifts, and employees may be eligible for FLSA premium overtime. A twelve-month probationary period is required. Pay upon appointment for current or former State employees may vary and will be in accordance with the Compensation Plan and Wisconsin Administrative Code
Employees at maximum security facilities, Columbia Correctional (Columbia CountyI); Dodge Correctional (Dodge County); Green Bay Correctional (Brown County); Taycheedah Correctional (Fond du Lac County); Waupun Correctional (Dodge County); and Wisconsin Secure Program Facility (Grant County) are eligible for a permanent $2.00/hour add-on.
Employees at Columbia Correctional (Columbia County), Kettle Moraine Correctional (Sheboygan County), Dodge Correctional Institution (Dodge County) and Waupun Correctional (Dodge County); and Wisconsin Secure Program Facility (Grant County) are eligible for an additional, temporary $5.00/hour add on.
Candidates new to State service or who have not held any position with the State in the last five years may be eligible for a $2,000 sign on bonus at the following facilities (eligible institutions is subject to change based on the operational needs):
Columbia (Columbia County); Dodge (Dodge County); Fox Lake (Dodge County); Green Bay (Brown County); Kettle Moraine (Sheboygan County); Oshkosh (Winnebago County); Racine (Racine County); Racine Youthful Offender Facility (Racine County); Redgranite (Waushara County); Stanley Correctional (Chippewa County); Taycheedah (Fond du Lac County); Waupun (Dodge County); Wisconsin Secure Program Facility (Grant County).
Job Details
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the U.S., a lawful permanent resident, or an alien authorized to work in the U.S. without DOC sponsorship) at the time of application.
The Department of Corrections may conduct pre-employment drug screens. Any applicant who is offered employment in a position which requires a pre-employment drug screen must pass the screen as a contingency of employment.
The Department of Corrections will conduct criminal background checks on applicants prior to selection. Upon hire, all new DOC employees are subject to fingerprinting.
All state employees must report their COVID vaccination status, whether vaccinated or not and provide supporting documentation if vaccinated. Newly hired employees will be required to submit this information within their first two weeks of employment. The State of Wisconsin continues to follow necessary health and safety protocols for COVID. Please visit Division of Personnel Management Coronavirus - COVID-19 (wi.gov) for the most up-to-date information. Guidance may be subject to change.
Upon hire, candidates will complete a paid six-week training program which includes on-the-job training at a Correctional Institution. The training time will be split between the Corrections Training Center(CTC) in Madison and the assigned institution. Training will focus on report writing, human/public relations, supervision of persons in our care, communication skills, and standards of conduct. Lodging and dinner meals will be provided during the training for those who reside more than 45 miles from the training location. Lunch meals will be provided by CTC or the assigned institution.
Qualifications
At least 18 years of age
High school diploma or equivalent
No felony convictions without a pardon
No domestic violence convictions
Willing to work overtime
Meet firearm standards
Effective communication skills
Ability to problem solve and resolve conflict
Additional steps in the selection process include passing a medical and fitness screen and a drug test.
How To Apply
To apply, click on “Apply for Job” to start the application process. Follow the steps outlined in the application process and submit your application.
You will be able to select your top three institution preferences prior to signing up for a medical exam. The Department will strive to honor your preferences but maintains discretion on final placement based on operational needs.
Permanent classified employees who are eligible for consideration as a transfer or voluntary demotion must complete the application process in order to be considered.
If you are certified, you will receive an interview invitation by DOC Human Resources. Your interview will be for all facilities, regardless of which facility hosts your interview.
Questions can be directed to DOCCorrectionalOfficerRecruitment@wisconsin.gov