CDOC CORRECTIONAL OFFICER I - Northeastern Region/ Sterling and Limon

The Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) is a prominent state government agency responsible for managing correctional facilities throughout Colorado. Serving the public with dedication and commitment, the CDOC oversees a network of prisons, including the Sterling Correctional Facility (SCF) and the Limon Correctional Facility (LCF), located in Northeastern Colorado. SCF, situated about 120 miles northeast of Denver, officially opened in 1999 and spans a 100-acre area of a larger site. This facility houses a diverse inmate population across multiple custody levels such as Minimum, Minimum-Restricted, Medium, Close (general population), and Close (Management Control Comprehensive - MCC), with a total capacity of 2,488 offenders. The Limon Correctional Facility, located approximately 80 miles east of Denver, is a Level IV facility sitting on 320 acres with 13 buildings for housing and services, accommodating a capacity of 938 inmates primarily in close, medium, and minimum restricted custody levels. LCF provides essential educational and work opportunities for inmates, contributing to their rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.

As part of its workforce, the CDOC employs Correctional Officers I (CO I) who play a vital role in maintaining the safety, security, and effective operation of these facilities. The CO I position is a full-time, essential role focusing on supporting the CDOC Mission, Vision, and Values with integrity and professionalism. The role demands a motivated individual who respects human dignity while preparing inmates for community reentry by effectively managing daily prison operations. This position includes interacting respectfully with inmates, their families, colleagues, supervisors, and the public, upholding a dependable and professional demeanor at all times.

Correctional Officers I are entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding the public, staff, and inmates by enforcing security procedures within locked facilities. Duties include working directly with inmates, monitoring access to secure areas, guarding armed posts requiring annual firearms certification, supervising facility perimeters, and detaining unauthorized persons or vehicles. Officers operate mechanical doors, security devices, and alarms, control inmate movements according to daily schedules, escort and transport inmates in authorized state vehicles, and oversee visiting areas. They also perform counts, maintain movement logs, conduct thorough searches for contraband, inspect living areas for health and safety compliance, and handle inmate mail and property.

Emergency response is a critical function for COI officers; they must deploy proper protocols during fights, medical emergencies, fires, or escape attempts. Maintaining accountability through tool and key controls, attending roll calls, documenting incidents meticulously, and timely communicating pertinent information with teammates and supervisors are fundamental aspects of the role. Shifts can include nights, weekends, and holidays with the possibility of extended hours to maintain 24/7 facility coverage.

Working at CDOC offers numerous advantages including career advancement opportunities across the state correctional system, strong and flexible retirement benefits through PERA with additional safety officer considerations, comprehensive medical and dental plans, disability and life insurance coverage, and paid holiday, vacation, and sick leave. Employees are supported through wellness programs, tuition reimbursement, and training opportunities. Additional shift differentials incentivize swing, graveyard, and weekend shifts.

The ideal candidates must meet several minimum requirements such as a high school diploma or GED, U.S. work authorization, valid driver’s license, and must be at least 18 years old. They must pass rigorous background checks, health screenings, and complete comprehensive training including defensive tactics with specified physical capabilities. The position demands resilience under stressful situations, strong judgment and interpersonal skills, keen observation abilities, and adherence to safety and security protocols including the use of firearms and chemical agents.

Candidates must be willing and able to work in varying environmental conditions including temperature fluctuations and inclement weather while maintaining effective communication and teamwork. Bilingual skills and prior mentoring or volunteer experience may be viewed favorably. The CDOC emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages applicants from all backgrounds, committing to equal opportunity employment practices.

Joining CDOC as a Correctional Officer I means embracing a challenging yet rewarding career that directly impacts public safety and offender rehabilitation, contributing meaningfully to Colorado’s criminal justice system.