Key Points

• Correctional officers in Massachusetts earn an average of $77,200 annually, with senior officers earning $85,000 or more.
• Requirements include U.S. citizenship, a high school diploma or GED, being at least 21 years old, and passing a background check.
• Training includes a 12-week Massachusetts Corrections Academy with fitness, defensive tactics, and firearms training.
• Officers work in state prisons, county jails, and detention centers.
• Career advancement includes promotions, specialized units, or transitions to probation and parole.

What is a Correctional Officer?

A correctional officer (CO) is responsible for supervising incarcerated individuals, ensuring facility security, and supporting inmate rehabilitation. They enforce facility rules, respond to emergencies, and help maintain a safe environment for staff and inmates.

Typical duties include:

• Conducting security checks and preventing contraband entry
• Supervising inmate activities and enforcing rules
• Responding to emergencies such as fights or medical events
• Writing reports and maintaining accurate records
• Supporting inmate rehabilitation and re-entry efforts

Where Do Correctional Officers Work?

Correctional officers in Massachusetts work in:

• State Prisons – housing sentenced individuals
• County Jails – managing pre-trial detainees or short-term sentences
• Detention Centers – including juvenile facilities
• Specialized Units – such as maximum-security blocks, tactical response, or crisis intervention teams

Requirements to Become a Correctional Officer in Massachusetts

To qualify as a CO in Massachusetts, applicants must meet the following:

1. Education: High school diploma or GED required; some facilities prefer an associate degree in criminal justice.
2. Age: Minimum of 21 years old.
3. Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
4. Physical Fitness: Ability to pass a physical fitness exam.
5. Background Check: Clean criminal record and moral character assessment.
6. Training: Completion of the 12-week Massachusetts Corrections Academy (480 hours).

How to Become a Correctional Officer in Massachusetts?

1. Meet Eligibility Requirements – Ensure you meet age, education, and citizenship standards.
2. Apply for Open Positions – Submit an application through the Massachusetts Department of Correction or county sheriff’s offices.
3. Pass the Written Exam – Demonstrates knowledge of correctional procedures and legal standards.
4. Complete Physical Fitness Test – Running, push-ups, sit-ups, and endurance tasks.
5. Undergo Background Check – Includes criminal, employment, and financial history.
6. Attend the Massachusetts Corrections Academy – A 12-week program covering defensive tactics, firearms, emergency response, and inmate management.
7. Obtain Certification – Upon graduation, receive state certification as a correctional officer.
8. Begin Working – Start your career at a prison, jail, or detention center.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Correcitional Officer in Massachusetts?

The process usually takes 6–12 months, including application, background checks, academy training, and hiring.