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For Educators: Military Resources
For Educators: Military Resources

Military Corrections Officers

Median Salary
46,358
Workforce Count
3,838

Overview

What are the responsibilities of this role?

Corrections officers are responsible for the security and safety of prisoners, and the day-to day operations of correctional facilities. They are responsible for the overall security of facilities housing prisoners. They manage the receipt, custody, and release of prisoners. Additionally, they establish a system of incentives and privileges, and impose punitive and administrative disciplinary measures.

What is the work environment like?

Corrections officers in the Military usually work in offices while planning and directing law enforcement and security activities. They may work outdoors while directing investigations, observing prisoners, and inspecting security systems.

How many people have this role in the Military?

3,838

Compensation

Understanding How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary

Base pay is the standard income you’ll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.

  • Always fixed based on rank and service time.
  • Distributed monthly.
Learn More About Military Benefits

What is the typical salary range?

Salary by Years of Service

$88,259

2 Years

$61,502

6 Years

$88,259

10+ Years
Median Salary
46,358

Military Details

Is this a staff or leadership role?

Enlisted
Officer
Officers are service members who plan, direct operations and manage enlisted personnel, developing a broad range of leadership-related skills.
Learn More About Enlisted and Officer Paths

What does the training for this role entail?

Job training for corrections officers primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments.  Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training may include:  

  • Military law
  • Law enforcement administration
  • Management of security problems
  • Investigation procedures and reporting

Education

What level of education do professionals in this role have?

Education Level

  • High school

    92%

  • Associate's degree

    7%

Which college majors best prepare you for this role?

  • Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
  • Corrections
  • Juvenile Corrections

Learn About How Military Can Pay for 100% of your College Degree

The Military has several programs that cover college costs — so you can pursue your education with little to no debt.
Learn More About Paying For College

Skills and Interest

What skills will set you up for success?

Skills

  • Leadership

    High

  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

    High

  • Verbal Skills

    Mid

  • Math and Science Skills

    Low

  • Technology Design and Control

    Low

  • Equipment Operation and Maintenance

    Mid

What knowledge is essential to bring to the table?

  • Psychology
  • Computers and Electronics
  • Customer and Personal Service
  • English Language
  • Administrative

What challenges will you likely face in the workplace?

Workplace

  • Exposure to Job Hazards

    High

  • Time Pressure

    High

  • Repetitiveness

    High

  • Responsibility

    High

  • Decision Making

    High

  • Physical Activity

    Mid

  • Level Of Competition

    Mid

What personality traits help people thrive in this role?

Realistic

You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.

Conventional

You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.

Social

You love connecting with people, helping others and making a difference in your community.

RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.

Take the RIASEC Test

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