Correctional Officer

Do you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of others? Do you enjoy working with diverse people? If so, then consider this opportunity with the Ministry of the Solicitor General, where you will support the correctional system in Ontario and contribute to the safety of your community. The Correctional Officer position is a rewarding career in the justice sector and is an opportunity to work with an employer that promotes diversity, is committed to your development and is providing paid training for new correctional officer recruits. This is an exciting time to join Correctional Services!

We are seeking like-minded individuals that demonstrate compassion for others and an ability to engage and support diverse communities in a meaningful way. You bring an awareness, sensitivity, and mindfulness towards diversity and understand the challenges/barriers clients from marginalized groups may face. Those committed to diversity and inclusion have an opportunity to apply for a scholarship providing financial aid in training costs.

What can I expect to do in this role?

In this role, you will:
• Perform a full range of duties, including the care, custody, control and supervision of inmates
• Support the delivery of specialized programs, services and cultural activities for inmates
• Interact with inmates to maintain security and safety in the facility
• Provide community escort duties to ensure the safety of inmates, staff, visitors and the public
• Maintain communications with a range of contacts, including inmates, co-workers, supervisors, Native Inmate Liaison/Elder and clinical and medical staff
• Demonstrate the Correctional Services Officer core competencies of critical and strategic thinking, leadership, communication, emotional intelligence and integrity, and professionalism throughout all interactions.

Communication (Oral and Written) skills

You have:
• Ability to convey factual information through respectful oral and written communication with inmates, staff, supervisors and the public
• Ability to complete reports and documentation, and maintain accurate inmate counts
• Ability to demonstrate interpersonal skills in communicating clearly, respectfully and confidently in providing information, instructions and directions

Observation, Analytical and Problem Solving skills

You have:
• Ability to assess inmate situations, problems and conflicts and proactively determine suitable resolutions.
• Ability to demonstrate leadership in making inmate referrals to appropriate institutional personnel or professional staff for suitable action

Team Work/Interpersonal and Persuasion skills

You have:
• Ability to work cooperatively with others to achieve common goals
• Ability to positively assist inmates and motivate them to participate in activities
• Ability to treat inmates and staff in a consistent, fair, firm and non-judgmental manner
• Ability to promote shared values and deliver on organizational priorities and expectations

Crisis Intervention and Conflict Resolution skills

You have:
• Ability to recognize and understand situations that may produce conflict and use strategies and critical thinking to resolve and/or de-escalate
• Ability to recognize and assess a crisis or potential crisis situation, and implement appropriate solutions in an attempt to resolve the crisis

General Knowledge and Computer skills

You have:
• Knowledge of court procedures to testify/present evidence at court hearings, Coroner\’s inquests and ministry investigations.
• Knowledge of diversity to understand cultural differences and professionally interact with others
• Ability to apply human rights and anti-racism principles, in supporting Indigenous perspectives, demonstrating an inclusive and diversity focused approach to managing impacts on inmates
• Ability to use computer software to accurately input and retrieve data

There are a total of 204 positions across Ontario.