Looking for a stable, purpose-driven career in public safety? Becoming a correctional officer in Minnesota offers a clear path to employment, with average salaries reaching $65,710 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Most people can qualify and get hired in under 12 months. If you're motivated to protect communities and help people rehabilitate, this guide explains everything you need to get started.
Certification allows you to be hired at state or county facilities across Minnesota.
Most candidates complete the process within 6 to 12 months, depending on hiring cycles and training availability. Here's a typical timeline:
If you're applying with no prior experience, expect around 9 months total from start to hire.
Dreambound helps you compare and apply to correctional officer training programs in cities like Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and Rochester. Use filters for tuition cost, schedule flexibility, and hybrid learning options.
Dreambound is the easiest way to find vocational training across Minnesota. Search by location, job title, or industry and get matched with accredited training programs that align with your goals.
Follow these steps after certification:
Search open positions:
Prepare your resume and documentation:
Apply and interview:
Pass background and drug screenings:
Start your facility-specific onboarding and training:
Once you’re certified and working, Minnesota offers strong upward mobility:
With experience and continuing education, you can pursue roles in criminal justice management, corrections counseling, or forensic psychology.
According to BLS May 2024 data:
Union benefits, retirement packages, and paid overtime are commonly included for Minnesota correctional officers.
Becoming a correctional officer in Minnesota is a rewarding career path for individuals who want to make a difference in their community while earning stable pay and benefits. You can get certified and hired in under a year and work in a high-impact field with long-term growth.
Ready to take the first step?
Visit Dreambound to compare training programs and start your correctional officer career today.
If you're thinking of a new career path, Dreambound offers in-depth guides to understand various job choices:
Alyssa Jane is part of the customer success team at Dreambound. She works with students, training providers, and employers, helping them have a smooth customer journey. She is also an ESL tutor and Licensed Psychometrician. She is fond of traveling, photography, and discovering new restaurants.
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Correctional officers are responsible for keeping correctional facilities secure and orderly. Their daily duties focus on supervision, safety, and support for inmate rehabilitation.
Typical responsibilities include:
Correctional officers are essential for maintaining safety inside institutions and supporting broader public safety goals.
You can work in:
Each type of facility may have its own hiring process and training requirements, but most follow similar core standards set by the state.
To qualify, you must meet these basic criteria:
To become a certified correctional officer through the Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC):
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