Correction Officer Onboarding Checklist

Correction Officer Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Correction Officer starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Law Enforcement onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Correction Officer, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Correction Officer onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Correction Officer Onboarding Checklist

1. Background check and fingerprinting: This task involves conducting a thorough background check and fingerprinting process to ensure the candidate has a clean criminal record and is suitable for the role of a correction officer. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated background check agency.

2. Completion of required paperwork: New correction officers need to complete various paperwork, including employment contracts, tax forms, and benefit enrollment forms. This task is usually handled by the human resources department, who guides the new employee through the necessary paperwork and ensures all documents are properly filled out.

3. Orientation and introduction to the department: The correction officer should receive a comprehensive orientation session to familiarize themselves with the department’s policies, procedures, and organizational structure. This task is typically performed by a senior officer or a designated training officer who provides an overview of the department’s mission, values, and expectations.

4. Training on correctional procedures and protocols: New correction officers must undergo extensive training on correctional procedures, protocols, and safety measures. This training is usually conducted by experienced officers or trainers within the department and covers areas such as inmate management, emergency response, use of force, and security protocols.

5. Familiarization with facility layout and security systems: It is crucial for correction officers to be familiar with the layout of the correctional facility they will be working in, including the location of various units, control rooms, and emergency exits. Additionally, they should receive training on the facility’s security systems, such as surveillance cameras, alarms, and access control systems. This task is typically performed by senior officers or facility managers.

6. Introduction to inmate population and behavior management: Correction officers need to understand the inmate population they will be working with, including their demographics, behavioral patterns, and potential risks. This task may involve attending briefings or workshops conducted by experienced officers or psychologists who specialize in inmate behavior management.

7. Firearms and self-defense training: Depending on the jurisdiction and facility, correction officers may be required to undergo firearms and self-defense training. This training is typically conducted by certified firearms instructors and defensive tactics trainers who teach officers how to safely handle firearms, use non-lethal force, and protect themselves in potentially dangerous situations.

8. Health and safety training: New correction officers should receive comprehensive training on health and safety protocols within the correctional facility. This may include training on infection control, emergency medical response, personal protective equipment usage, and handling hazardous materials. This task is usually performed by the facility’s health and safety officer or a designated trainer.

9. Introduction to inmate rehabilitation programs: Many correctional facilities offer various inmate rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing recidivism and promoting positive behavior change. New correction officers should be introduced to these programs and understand their role in facilitating and supporting them. This task may involve attending presentations or workshops conducted by program coordinators or social workers.

10. Shadowing experienced officers: To gain practical experience and learn from seasoned professionals, new correction officers should have the opportunity to shadow experienced officers during their initial days or weeks on the job. This task allows them to observe and learn firsthand how to handle different situations, interact with inmates, and apply the knowledge gained during training

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Correction Officer checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Correction Officer up to speed and working well in your Law Enforcement team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.