Blog #16: Working With Inmates

There is a large difference between the relationship of past work experience and becoming a correctional officer between men and women.  Often times, the men that become a correctional officer are not coming from "white collar" professional jobs, but more so the hard labor type of jobs that required a lot of physical activity.  The jump from a non-physical job to a physically intensive job would be difficult.  Women in this position normally got there by working in the court system previously, and got a connection to the prison from working in the industry.  Social networking is important in a lot of positions, but especially a position that is not open very often.  

Social networking plays a very large role in people obtaining a position in the correctional field, especially being a correctional officer.  Often times, people start in the legal field and work their way "up" to this position.  I think this is more true for women because the majority of the women got their jobs from knowing other people.  However, I do think that it's true for men as well, because these jobs aren't open very often.  

I think that the driving force behind obtaining a job as a correctional officer is the ease and convenience of getting this job.  This job does not require a college degree, and only a high school diploma is required.  Those that cannot afford a college education are still presented with a decent employment opportunity with a very competitive salary.  Normally, the salary for this position is around $45,000 per year which is higher than many entry level positions.   This salary is often higher than entry level positions that require a college degree.  The stability of a salary and the benefits that come with this job is definitely a motivating factor for those that chose this career path.