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Juvenile corrections officers work in juvenile correctional facilities, detention centers and occasionally specialized treatment centers. They are responsible for preventing escapes, assaults and other disturbances by enforcing rules and maintaining security. On a given day, a juvenile corrections officer might supervise inmate activities, search living quarters, offer rehabilitation services, inspect locks and windows, and keep a detailed log of their activities.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most correctional officers are employed by local and state government, though some work for the federal government in federal prisons. Because the inmate population is in constant flux, correctional officers must be ready for unexpected disturbances and be comfortable working with unpredictable inmates. They must be able to think on their feet and communicate effectively with other officers and government officials. Physical health and self-defense skills are also important.

Juvenile corrections officer salaries

The median salary for correctional officers and jailers, including juvenile corrections officers, was $39,040 in 2010, as reported by the BLS. The middle 50 percent earned between $31,140 and $52,530, while the top 10 percent earned over $67,250.

Correctional officer salaries in 2010 were influenced by government branch and location. The BLS reports that the federal executive branch paid the most, with an average annual salary of $53,140. Texas, California and New York employed the most correctional officers in 2010, and average annual salaries were highest in the following cities:

1. Edison, N.J.: $71,100
2. Trenton, N.J.: $68,660
3. Sacramento, Calif.: $68,320
4. Bakersfield, Calif.: $66,710

Of these cities, Bakersfield employed the most correctional officers in 2010 and has the lowest cost of living, making it a promising place to pursue a career as a juvenile corrections officer.

Correctional officers can also seek higher salaries through advancement to correctional sergeant or supervisor positions. According to the BLS, supervisors of correctional facilities earned a median income of $55,910 in 2010. Additionally, the BLS notes that promotion opportunities can be influenced by one's education. Juvenile corrections officer training is available in a number of settings including online where officers can earn college credits while continuing to work full time.

Juvenile corrections officer training

Required training for juvenile corrections officers varies by government agency and facility, but a high-school diploma or GED is always required. The Federal Bureau of Prisons requires correctional officers have a bachelor's degree and/or three years of full-time experience providing supervision, counseling or assistance. In state and local facilities, individuals without prior experience can increase their employment opportunities by earning college credits through traditional or online degree programs, including juvenile corrections officer training online.

Upon being hired, correctional officers receive thorough on-the-job training. Federal corrections officers are required to undergo 200 hours of formal training, while state and local officers work as trainees for several weeks or months under the supervision of an experienced officer.

Juvenile corrections officer career outlook

According to the BLS, employment of correctional officers, including juvenile corrections officers, is expected to grow by 9 percent from 2008 to 2018. This growth is even with the national average and will be driven by increasing incarceration rates, longer prison sentences and a growing population. Large numbers of correctional officers are expected to retire, which will further strengthen job prospects.

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