Top 110+ Washington Department of Corrections jobs Apply Now

Washington Department of Corrections jobs: A career in corrections is about accountability, structure, and public service. In Washington State, corrections professionals play a vital role in maintaining safety, supporting rehabilitation, and ensuring the justice system functions effectively. Washington Department of Corrections (WA DOC) is one of the state’s largest public employers, offering stable careers with competitive pay, strong benefits, and long-term growth opportunities.

From correctional officers and healthcare professionals to educators, counselors, tradespeople, and administrative staff, WA DOC jobs extend far beyond prison walls. Whether you’re seeking a frontline role, a professional position, or a skilled trade job, the department provides structured training, job in USA security, and clear advancement pathways.

This in-depth guide covers Washington Department of Corrections jobs, including career options, salary expectations, benefits, eligibility requirements, and the application process.

Key Takeaways

• Washington Department of Corrections jobs offers diverse career paths statewide
• Many roles provide strong salaries without requiring a college degree
• State benefits and retirement plans add long-term financial security
• Paid training and promotion opportunities support career growth
• Corrections jobs offer stability and consistent demand

Overview of the Washington Department of Corrections

The Washington Department of Corrections is responsible for supervising incarcerated individuals, managing correctional facilities, and overseeing community supervision programs across the state. Its mission centers on public safety, accountability, and rehabilitation.

WA DOC operates:

• State prisons and work release facilities
• Community corrections offices
• Reentry and rehabilitation programs
• Education, healthcare, and vocational services

With facilities located throughout Washington, employment opportunities are available in both urban and rural areas.

Types of Washington Department of Corrections Jobs

One of the biggest strengths of WA DOC is the variety of roles it offers. Not all positions involve direct inmate supervision, making the department accessible to professionals from many backgrounds.

Correctional Officer Jobs

Correctional officers are the backbone of the department. These roles focus on safety, supervision, and facility operations.

Responsibilities

• Monitoring inmate movement and activities
• Enforcing rules and maintaining order
• Conducting searches and security checks
• Responding to incidents and emergencies

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• U.S. citizenship or legal authorization
• Ability to pass background, medical, and fitness evaluations

No college degree is required, and new hires receive paid academy training.

Community Corrections Officer Jobs

Community corrections officers work outside prison facilities, supervising individuals on probation or parole.

Duties

• Monitoring compliance with release conditions
• Conducting home and workplace visits
• Coordinating with courts and service providers
• Supporting rehabilitation and reintegration

These roles typically require relevant experience or education but offer higher earning potential and regular schedules.

Healthcare Jobs at Washington DOC

Correctional facilities require comprehensive medical and mental health services.

Common Healthcare Roles

• Registered nurses and licensed practical nurses
• Mental health counselors and psychologists
• Substance abuse specialists
• Medical assistants

Healthcare professionals benefit from predictable hours, job security, and state-funded benefits.

Education and Vocational Training Jobs

Education plays a key role in reducing recidivism, and WA DOC employs professionals dedicated to skill development.

Available Roles

• Teachers and instructors
• Vocational trainers (welding, carpentry, HVAC)
• GED and adult education specialists

These positions often appeal to educators seeking stable employment outside traditional school systems.

Skilled Trades and Maintenance Jobs

Correctional facilities function like small cities, requiring skilled tradespeople.

In-Demand Trades

• Electricians
• Plumbers
• HVAC technicians
• Carpenters
• Maintenance mechanics

Many of these jobs do not require college degrees and offer competitive wages with overtime opportunities.

Administrative and Office Jobs

Behind the scenes, administrative professionals keep operations running smoothly.

Administrative Roles Include

• Human resources specialists
• Fiscal analysts
• Office assistants
• Records technicians
• Procurement staff

These positions offer standard business hours and long-term career stability.

Salary Expectations at Washington Department of Corrections

WA DOC salaries are structured, transparent, and competitive within the public sector.

Correctional Officer Pay

Entry-level correctional officers start with solid base pay, which increases with:

• Experience
• Shift differentials
• Overtime
• Promotions

Senior officers and supervisors can earn significantly higher annual salaries.

Professional and Specialized Roles

Healthcare providers, counselors, and technical specialists often earn higher wages due to licensing requirements and specialized skills.

Overtime and Premium Pay

Many DOC roles include:

• Overtime opportunities
• Night and weekend shift differentials
• Holiday pay

These additions can substantially increase total annual earnings.

Benefits of Working for Washington DOC

One of the strongest reasons to choose a DOC career is the benefits package.

Health and Insurance Benefits

Eligible employees receive:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Mental health support
• Employee assistance programs

Retirement and Pension Plans

Washington DOC employees are enrolled in state retirement systems, offering:

• Defined pension plans
• Long-term financial security
• Survivor benefits

Paid Leave and Time Off

Benefits typically include:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Family and medical leave options

Work-Life Balance and Job Stability

While corrections work can be demanding, it offers:

• Predictable schedules (role-dependent)
• Job security during economic downturns
• Clear policies and union representation

State employment provides a level of stability that many private-sector jobs cannot match.

Training and Career Advancement

Washington DOC invests heavily in employee development.

Training Programs

• Paid correctional officer academy
• Ongoing safety and skills training
• Leadership development courses

Promotion Opportunities

Employees can advance into roles such as:

• Sergeant
• Lieutenant
• Captain
• Program supervisor
• Administrative leadership

Career progression is based on performance, experience, and exams—not favoritism.

Minimum Requirements and Background Checks

Due to the sensitive nature of corrections work, applicants must meet strict standards.

Common Requirements

• Clean or reviewable background
• Drug screening
• Psychological evaluation
• Physical fitness assessment

These measures ensure safety and professionalism across the department.

How to Apply for Washington Department of Corrections Jobs

The application process is centralized and transparent.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Visit the official Washington DOC careers portal
2. Search by job title or location
3. Create an applicant account
4. Submit required documents and application
5. Complete assessments or interviews if selected

Applicants may apply for multiple positions simultaneously.

Tips for Succeeding in the Hiring Process

To improve your chances:

• Read job descriptions carefully
• Be honest during background checks
• Prepare for scenario-based interviews
• Demonstrate reliability and professionalism

For correctional officer roles, physical fitness and clear communication matter.

Why Choose a Career with Washington DOC?

Washington Department of Corrections jobs offer more than employment—they provide purpose, structure, and long-term security.

Key advantages include:

• Competitive public-sector pay
• Strong benefits and pensions
• Paid training
• Career mobility
• Meaningful public service

For individuals seeking stability and impact, DOC careers remain a strong option.

Employment Outlook for Corrections Jobs in Washington

Corrections remains a consistently hiring field due to:

• Staff retirements
• Facility operations
• Ongoing public safety needs

Correctional officers, healthcare staff, and skilled trades are especially in demand.

Final Thoughts

Washington Department of Corrections jobs provide a rare combination of job security, professional growth, and public service. Whether you are starting a new career or transitioning from another field, WA DOC offers structured pathways that reward commitment and performance.

For those willing to take on responsibility and contribute to public safety, a career with the Washington Department of Corrections can be both financially and personally rewarding.

FAQs

Do Washington DOC jobs require a college degree?

No. Many positions, including correctional officer and trade roles, do not require a college degree.

Is correctional officer training paid?

Yes. New hires receive paid academy training.

Are Washington DOC jobs unionized?

Many positions are union-represented, providing wage protection and benefits.

Can DOC jobs lead to long-term careers?

Yes. State employment offers promotions, pensions, and job security.

How long does the hiring process take?

Timelines vary, but most applicants complete the process within several weeks to a few months.