A Correctional Sergeant is a highly trained and skilled professional who is responsible for overseeing and managing the day-to-day operations of a correctional facility. They are responsible for maintaining security, order, and discipline within the facility, as well as ensuring the safety and well-being of both inmates and staff. In addition to these responsibilities, Correctional Sergeants also play a critical role in the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates into society. Correctional Sergeants have a wide range of duties and responsibilities, including supervising and training correctional officers, monitoring inmate behavior and enforcing rules and regulations, and coordinating and collaborating with other law enforcement agencies. They must also be able to handle difficult and potentially dangerous situations and make quick, informed decisions in response to emergencies. Overall, the role of a Correctional Sergeant is vital to the safe and efficient operation of a correctional facility, and requires a high level of dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the safety and well-being of both inmates and staff.

What Does A Correctional Sergeant Do?

A Correctional Sergeant is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a correctional facility, ensuring security, order, and discipline within the facility, and ensuring the safety and well-being of both inmates and staff. They are also responsible for supervising and training correctional officers, monitoring inmate behavior, enforcing rules and regulations, and coordinating with other law enforcement agencies. They must be able to handle difficult and potentially dangerous situations and make quick, informed decisions in response to emergencies.

How To Become A Correctional Sergeant?

Becoming a Correctional Sergeant typically involves a combination of education, experience, and specialized training. The journey often starts with obtaining a high school diploma or GED, followed by gaining experience as a correctional officer. Acquiring relevant certifications and completing additional coursework in criminal justice can enhance your qualifications. Demonstrating a strong understanding of correctional policies, leadership skills, and the ability to manage teams will further bolster your candidacy. Aspiring sergeants should also prepare for a selection process that may include written exams, interviews, and physical fitness tests to secure this crucial supervisory role within correctional facilities.
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Education

High school
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Average Salary

$47,700
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Avg. Experience

1-2 years
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Correctional Sergeant Career Paths

A career path for a Correctional Sergeant may involve advancement to higher-level management positions within a correctional facility, such as Assistant Warden or Warden. They may also choose to move on to other roles within the criminal justice system, such as a Probation Officer or a Police Officer. Advancement opportunities also may include specialized roles such as a unit manager, classification or program manager, or training manager. Additionally, they may also choose to move into a supervisory or management role within the department of corrections or law enforcement agency.

Average Salary for Correctional Sergeant

A Correctional Sergeant makes $47,700 per year on average, or $22.93 per hour, in the United States. The bottom 10% make about $34,936 a year, while the top 10% make about $56,011.

Highest Paying States

California

$61,014 Yearly

Washington

$60,226 Yearly

South Carolina

$51,769 Yearly

Florida

$50,568 Yearly

Idaho

$49,124 Yearly

Correctional Sergeant Education

The most common degrees for a Correctional Sergeant are High school (64.54% of jobs require this), Bachelor's degree (35.03%), Doctoral or Professional degree (0.43%).

Correctional Sergeant Degrees

High school 64.54%
Bachelor's degree 35.03%
Doctoral or Professional degree 0.43%
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