First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers
First-line supervisors of correctional officers oversee and direct the daily activities of officers and jailers working in correctional facilities. They manage staff schedules, monitor facility operations, respond to incidents, and ensure compliance with security protocols. Most work in prisons, jails, and detention centers operated by government agencies or private corrections companies.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against first-line supervisors of correctional officers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves reviewing shift reports, conducting facility inspections, and addressing operational issues as they arise. Supervisors schedule officers, handle staffing changes, and respond to inmate incidents or security concerns. They document incidents, complete compliance paperwork, and may meet with other departments or correctional administration. Many work irregular schedules including evenings, nights, and weekends to maintain continuous facility coverage.
Who this work suits
Holland code ECS. Enterprising work is leading, persuading and making decisions. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to excel in this role if you're organized, comfortable with hierarchy and rule-based systems, and skilled at managing people and procedures. You're naturally enterprising—comfortable making decisions and taking charge—while also conventional in your respect for established processes and regulations.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $125,590 | $131,210 | $144,400 | 4,550 |
| New Jersey | $110,690 | $117,450 | $129,610 | 1,340 |
| Utah | $96,290 | $110,410 | $122,320 | 340 |
| Nevada | $98,580 | $107,260 | $125,840 | 190 |
| Massachusetts | $95,500 | $105,930 | $115,300 | 460 |
| Illinois | $93,590 | $105,450 | $129,590 | 2,860 |
| New York | $88,260 | $103,320 | $121,600 | 3,380 |
| Oregon | $99,890 | $99,890 | $112,250 | 610 |
| Washington | $92,110 | $98,910 | $106,870 | 1,400 |
| Alaska | $88,460 | $98,420 | $111,530 | 300 |
| Hawaii | $86,910 | $97,200 | $105,350 | 60 |
| Minnesota | $81,120 | $96,720 | $107,180 | 750 |
All 49 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Correctional Trainer (CCT) — American Jail Association
- Certified Corrections Supervisor/Juvenile (CCS/Juv) — American Correctional Association
- Certified Corrections Officer/Juvenile (CCO/Juv) — American Correctional Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against first-line supervisors of correctional officers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 33-1011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.