Correctional Officer - Temporary AIDE - Facility Support - Sterling

Overview

Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) is seeking temporary Correctional Officer I (CO I) aides to support staff at the Sterling Correctional Facility (SCF). SCF is located in northeast Colorado, approximately 120 miles northeast of Denver, covers 100 acres of a 765‑acre site, and has an official capacity of 2,488 inmates with custody levels ranging from Minimum to Close (Management Control Comprehensive – MCC).

Temporary employees may work a maximum of nine (9) months within any rolling 12‑month period.

• Work directly with inmates in a locked facility.
• Monitor and control access to the facility and restricted areas.
• Man an armed post; annual firearms certification required.
• Monitor facility perimeter, detain unidentified pedestrians and/or vehicles.
• Operate mechanical doors, security devices, equipment, and alarms.
• Control inmate movement throughout the daily schedule.
• Escort and transport inmates in authorized state vehicles.
• Monitor visiting areas.
• Conduct formal, informal, and emergency counts.
• Maintain cross‑check logs and movement logs.
• Conduct searches for contraband (canine, metal detector, pat, perimeter, strip, vehicle).
• Inspect facility and cells for health, safety, and sanitation standards.
• Inspect inmate mail and property.
• Respond to emergency situations—fights, medical emergencies, fires, escapes—using proper protocols.
• Follow tool and key control procedures; ensure proper storage and documentation.
• Attend roll call and document incidents using established reporting practices.
• Communicate pertinent information to coworkers and supervisors.

High school diploma or GED certificate.

• Legal eligibility to work in the United States; CDOC uses e‑Verify.
• Age 18 or older.
• Valid, unrestricted Colorado driver’s license.
• No felony convictions of the type specified in U.S. and Colorado statutes.
• Successful background investigation; provide write‑sided disposition if necessary.
• Pass required health screening.
• Pass all modules of CDOC Basic Training, including defensive tactics.
• Demonstrate physical ability for defensive tactics and baton use.
• May be exposed to oleoresin capsicum during Basic Training and on the job.
• Will work all shifts, doubles, weekends, holidays, and inclement weather.
• Willing to use physical force as trained; firearm use permitted.
• Willing to work in a locked correctional facility with varying noise and temperature.
• Willing to travel and transport inmates in state vehicles.
• Must complete tuberculosis screening upon hire.

• Strong work ethic, accountability, integrity, and reliability.
• Sound judgment, reasoning, and decision‑making skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer‑service skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication in English.
• Ability to read and comprehend English.
• Ability to observe and interpret inmate behavior and environmental hazards.
• Knowledge of criminal‑justice systems, ADA, PREA, and CDOC regulations.
• Intermediate computer keyboarding and email communication skills.
• Ability to conduct searches and operate security equipment safely.
• Ability to use firearms, restraints, and security devices professionally.
• Physical fitness for defensive tactics, baton work, and outdoor duties.
• Ability to follow chain of command and safety protocols.
• Ability to respond quickly to emergencies.
• Emotional resilience and stress tolerance.

• Bilingualism.
• Experience mentoring or volunteering.

Applications will be reviewed for minimum qualifications. Eligible candidates will then enter a comparative analysis process that may include a suitability screening, e‑skills assessment, oral assessment, written test, or a review of application materials by a subject‑matter expert. Full details are provided in the original posting.

The State of Colorado encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The CDOC is an equal‑opportunity employer and commits to building an inclusive workforce. Hiring is based on merit and fitness, with preference given to military veterans. The CDOC will assist individuals with disabilities in applying reasonable accommodations. To report a discrimination claim, contact the CDOC Equal Opportunity Office before closing.