For the approximately 20 Correctional Officer candidates with the Rhode Island Department of Corrections, this summer has become very busy and somewhat arduous. The candidates began their nine-week training on July 26th and will graduate on September 24, 2010. All of the candidates went through the 2008 recruitment but were put on a waiting list until the RIDOC had approval to hire additional C.O.’s.
Candidates who were selected for the 9-week Training Academy receive a weekly stipend of $500. The paramilitary training includes instruction on the following: security procedures, supervision of inmates, suicide signs/precautions, use of force, report writing, inmate rules and regulations, inmate rights, fire and emergency procedures, safety procedures, firearms training, defensive tactics, CPR/First-aid certification, baton certification, physical training, O.C. certification, key and tool control, communication skills, inmate lifestyles, and stress management.
Correctional Officer duties include the supervision, custody, and control of adult inmates incarcerated at the Adult Correctional Institutions (ACI) in Cranston. Upon appointment, the starting salary is $41,665, and benefits include health, dental and vision coverage, pension plan, paid vacations, paid personal days, paid holidays, sick leave benefit, step pay increases, college incentive pay, and clothing maintenance allowance. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, possess a valid photo ID, have a Social Security card or alien registration card, be a high school graduate or have a GED, and be fluent in English. The Rhode Island residency requirement no longer applies.
The selection process includes a written and video-based examination, BCI/NCIC, a physical fitness test, a background investigation, an appointment with the Director’s Interview Board, a psychological assessment, and a medical screening.
For further information about the Training Academy or the Department of Corrections, please visit www.doc.ri.gov.