CDOC Correctional Officer - Youthful Offender System

Overview

This Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) posting will fill vacant positions at our Youthful Offender System (YOS) location. The main campus of the Youthful Offender System (YOS) is located on the grounds of the Mental Health Institute of Pueblo. The IDO building, which includes Intake and Diagnostics, and the Orientation Training Phase, is located at the La Vista Correctional Facility. YOS delivers a four-part continuum of services and houses both male and female juveniles and young adults aged 14 to 19, with up to 256 beds.

The Youthful Offender System was established by legislation enacted in 1993 to provide habilitation programs and services that prepare individuals for successful re-entry while ensuring public safety.

• Maintain the safety and security of CDOC prison facilities.
• Communicate professionally with inmates, families, coworkers, and the public.
• Work as part of a team to manage a diverse inmate population.
• Monitor and control access to facilities and restricted areas; man an armed post (annual firearms certification).
• Escort and transport inmates in authorized state vehicles and monitor visiting areas.
• Conduct counts, monitor movement logs, searches for contraband, and inspections for health, safety and sanitation.
• Respond to emergencies and maintain tool and key control with proper storage and documentation.
• Attend roll calls and document incidents using established reporting practices.
• Interact with inmates in a respectful manner while adhering to safety and security protocols.

High School Diploma or a GED certificate.

• Strong work ethic, accountability, integrity and dependability.
• Sound judgment and the ability to communicate clearly in English (verbal and written).
• Interpersonal skills and teamwork orientation.
• Attention to detail and customer service focus.
• Ability to read, understand, and apply policies and regulations.
• Ability to operate computer tools and handle routine reporting.
• Ability to respond quickly to emergencies and work under stress.
• Willingness to work various shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays.
• Ability to learn about corrections methods and to work with diverse populations.

• Bi-lingual abilities.
• Mentoring or volunteer experience.

• Possess a valid driver’s license and maintain a safe driving record; state requirements apply for driving state vehicles.
• Legal eligibility to work in the United States; e-Verify is used; CDOC does not sponsor non-residents.
• Must be at least 18 years of age and have no felony convictions as defined in policy.
• Successful completion of a background investigation and health screening; ability to perform essential functions.
• Pass Department of Corrections Basic Training modules, including Defensive Tactics; physical requirements apply.
• Must be willing to work in a locked facility and travel with inmates as needed; weather considerations apply.
• TB screening is required for all new employees.

• Career advancement opportunities throughout the state system.
• RETIREMENT plans (PERA Defined Benefit or Defined Contribution with 401K/457).
• Medical and dental health plans; disability coverage; paid life insurance.
• 11 paid holidays per year, plus vacation and sick leave; wellness program and tuition reimbursement.
• Additional information available on State of Colorado Employee Benefits.

Your application will be reviewed against minimum qualifications. Colorado law may require a comparative analysis and other assessments during the selection process. Use of AI tools in the assessment process may lead to disqualification. Ensure your Work Experience section fully addresses your qualifications and experience related to the Description of the Job, Minimum Qualifications, Required Competencies and Preferred Qualifications.

The CDOC is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applicants from all identities and backgrounds to apply. If you have a disability and require accommodations, contact the Employee Relations Specialist. See official notices for appeal rights and processes.

All department facilities are tobacco free. We require compliance with all program and employment policies upon hire.