Wage and Hour Division (WHD)

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Service Contract Act Directory of Occupations

27006 Corrections Officer

Maintains order among inmates in a prison or local jail. Performs routine duties in accordance with established policies, regulations, and procedures to guard and supervise inmates in cells, at meals, during recreation, and on work assignments. May, if necessary, employ weapons or force to maintain discipline and order. Typical duties include: Taking periodic inmate counts; searching inmates and cells for contraband articles; inspecting locks, windows, bars, grills, doors, and grates for tampering; aiding in prevention of escapes and taking part in searches for escaped inmates; and escorting inmates to and from different areas for questioning, medical treatment, work and meals. May act as outside wall guard, usually on rotation.

Excluded are:

1. Workers receiving on-the-job training in basic correctional activities; and
2. Positions responsible for providing counselling or rehabilitation services to inmates.