Job Details
CORRECTIONS AND CUSTODY OFFICER 3
2026-01-15 State of Washington Airway Heights,WA
Description:
The Correctional Sergeant (Corrections and Custody Officer 3) supervises and assists correctional officers as they perform custody work to ensure the safety and security of an adult correctional facility, unit, offenders, staff, and the public. The incumbent will assign posts and duties to correctional officers, give instruction and training, maintain discipline, and make inspections to maintain proper safety and security. Key duties of the Correctional Sergeant include:
REQUIRED:
Observation - Observes and strategize personal action based on environmental conditions and human behavior.
Technology- Learns and utilizes computer-based applications in the performance of job duties.
Stress Tolerance - Remains calm and rational while handling difficult situations to include, but not limited to, volatile, threatening, or other crisis/emergency situations. Expertly intervenes in response to threats.
Professional Standards- Knows and applies relevant law, policy, procedure, and practice. Adheres to productivity standards and timelines established by law and policy. Identifies own training needs and proactively seeks training opportunities.
Adaptability- Incorporates new information into an existing framework of understanding. Accepts change and supports the Agency through changes in law, policy, and procedure.
Demonstrated ability to:
Vision: Working together for safer communities.
Mission: Improving public safety by positively changing lives.
Our Commitment: To operate a safe and humane corrections system and partner with others to transform lives for a better Washington.
DOC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, honorably discharged veteran, veteran status, genetic information, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
As an employee of the Department of Corrections, your work-life integration is a priority. Washington State employees are offered one of the most inclusive and competitive benefits packages in the nation. Besides comprehensive family insurance for medical, dental, and vision, these perks also may include:
PERS: State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the ' web site.
For questions about this recruitment, or to request reasonable accommodation in the application process, please email ...@doc1.wa.gov. For TTY service, please call the Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 1-800-###-####.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Are you a current, permanent Washington State Department of Corrections employee?
02
Do you have a high school diploma?
03
Do you have a valid driver's license?
04
Do you have three or more years of experience as a Correctional Officer in adult corrections?NOTE: The successful completion of 30 semester or 45 quarter hours of accredited college-level course work can substitute for up to one year of the required correctional experience.
05
If you responded "Yes" to the above question, please explain in detail below where you gained this experience. If you answered "No", you must type "N/A".
06
Which of the following custody levels have you worked as a Correctional Officer in an adult correctional facility? Select all that apply.
07
For each of the responses selected in the question above, describe the position, length of time in that role, and your duties. If you answered, "None of the above", you must type "N/A".
08
How many months of experience do you have working in emergency response positions such as specialty correctional teams (ERT, SERT, CNT, IRT), EMT, fire fighter, police officer, or similar positions requiring emergency response?
09
In the last 24 months, how many times have you been asked to explain or teach other officers about institutional policies, procedures, statutes and/or regulations? (For example: mentoring/teaching new officers)
10
How many months experience do you have in a correctional setting where you have been responsible for the supervision of one or more subordinates? ("Subordinates" does not include offender workers.)
11
How many months of experience do you have in conducting fact finding investigations, offender grievance investigations and/or general infraction disciplinary hearings.
12
How do you rate your proficiency in using personal computers and using programs such as Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook or other data base and word processing programs?
13
Describe the steps you have taken to prepare yourself for a Correctional Sergeant position. You may want to include information on your experience mentoring new officers, relevant training courses, or any other opportunities for professional growth you have undertaken.
14
How did you hear about this opportunity?
15
If you selected 'Other' or 'Referral', feel free to elaborate.
16
If hired for this position, will you require employer sponsorship, either now or in the future?
17
If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? (The below link lists acceptable documents:
Required Question
Salary: $6,046.00 - $8,129.00 Monthly
Location : Spokane County - Airway Heights, WA
Job Type: Agency Internal Promotional - Permanent
Job Number: 2026-00173
Department: Dept. of Corrections
Division: Prisons - AHCC
Opening Date: 01/08/2026
Closing Date: 1/19/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
Correctional Sergeant
Airway Heights Corrections Center
Airway Heights, WA
Full-Time Permanent
**THIS RECRUITMENT IS OPEN TO PERMANENT WASHINGTON STATE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS EMPLOYEES ONLY**
This position, under the supervision of a Lieutenant or Correctional Unit Supervisor, supervises Correctional Officers, and performs custody work which involves controlling, directing, and monitoring the activities and movement of adult Incarcerated Individuals, in support of the Department of Corrections' Mission: "The Department of Corrections in collaboration with its criminal justice partners,victims, citizens, and other stakeholders will enhance community safety, reduce victimization, and hold Incarcerated Individuals accountable through the administration of criminal sanctions and effective correctional programs," in accordance with established department methods and procedures.
Correctional Sergeants are expected to be a positive role model for Incarcerated Individuals and work to help them become productive members of society from the day they arrive under supervision. Correctional Sergeants use psychology and good communication skills to correct and counteract criminalthinking of offenders while maintaining safe confinement environments for Incarcerated Individuals to pursue a successful re-entry into communities. The successful candidate for Correctional Sergeant will possess creative thinking, self-confidence, and strong role-modeling characteristics.
A completed application packet will include:
- A cover letter regarding your interest in this position with our agency
- A detailed resume
- Three professional references
The Correctional Sergeant (Corrections and Custody Officer 3) supervises and assists correctional officers as they perform custody work to ensure the safety and security of an adult correctional facility, unit, offenders, staff, and the public. The incumbent will assign posts and duties to correctional officers, give instruction and training, maintain discipline, and make inspections to maintain proper safety and security. Key duties of the Correctional Sergeant include:
- Performing custody work including controlling, directing, and monitoring the activities and movement of adult Incarcerated Individuals.
- Supervising and assisting in the transport of Incarcerated Individuals, providing custody to Incarcerated Individuals on authorized leave for medical appointments, court orders, or other transport.
- Monitoring and assisting Field Training Officers (FTOs), CO2s, and CO1s.
- Recording and evaluating officer performance.
- Developing, providing, and evaluating curriculum and the delivery of continuous training.
- Taking emergency action and intervening in/controlling acts of negative behavior and violence by Incarcerated Individuals by following prescribed procedures and guidelines, using verbal de-escalation, and physical and lethal uses of force.
- Completing written reports, keeping logs and other records.
- Ensuring Incarcerated Individuals, staff, and public safety by restricting mail, inspecting packages for contraband, admitting authorized visitors, and enforcing visitor regulations.
REQUIRED:
- Graduation from high school or equivalent, valid driver's license, AND three years' experience as a Correctional Officer in adult corrections.
- Two years' experience as a correctional officer in adult corrections AND successful completion of thirty (30) semester or forty-five quarter hours of accredited college-level course work. If you are using coursework for qualifications, you will be asked to provide an official transcript.
Observation - Observes and strategize personal action based on environmental conditions and human behavior.
Technology- Learns and utilizes computer-based applications in the performance of job duties.
Stress Tolerance - Remains calm and rational while handling difficult situations to include, but not limited to, volatile, threatening, or other crisis/emergency situations. Expertly intervenes in response to threats.
Professional Standards- Knows and applies relevant law, policy, procedure, and practice. Adheres to productivity standards and timelines established by law and policy. Identifies own training needs and proactively seeks training opportunities.
Adaptability- Incorporates new information into an existing framework of understanding. Accepts change and supports the Agency through changes in law, policy, and procedure.
Demonstrated ability to:
- Write clearly, factually, and concisely,
- Recall detailed instructions, maintain attention and concentration for extended periods of time,
- Use effective oral and written communication skills in routine and emergency situations.
- Commitment to develop and promote positive and professional interpersonal relationship skills.
Vision: Working together for safer communities.
Mission: Improving public safety by positively changing lives.
Our Commitment: To operate a safe and humane corrections system and partner with others to transform lives for a better Washington.
DOC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, honorably discharged veteran, veteran status, genetic information, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
- This recruitment may be utilized to fill more than one position.
- Please include a minimum of three (3) professional references with your application. A professional reference is defined as an individual who has been paid to supervise your work and can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job competencies. If you do not have any or sufficient professional references, please include non-related professionals, such as educators or other professional associates.
**Please note: Phone number AND email address are required for all professional references. - A background check including criminal record history will be conducted prior to a new hire. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.
- Employees may work directly with or near incarcerated individuals in a potentially hazardous setting. Please consider this when deciding whether to apply.
- We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free work environment, and our employees are expected to comply with all state and federal laws. A pre-employment drug test may be administered as part of the selection process, and applicants who test positive for any controlled substances, will be disqualified from consideration.
- Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) is an aerosol pepper spray made available as a means of self-defense and/or de-escalation. Applicants with sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.
- Animal care projects are a common component of most Washington State prisons, including dog and cat programs. Applicants with animal sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.
- Tuberculosis (TB) is a priority health issue for DOC employees. The successful candidate may be required to provide valid proof of a baseline TB skin test within 60 days from the date of hire. When positive tests result, further information, testing and treatment will also be required. Employment is not contingent upon test results.
- Foreign equivalent degrees awarded outside the United States must have a credential evaluation report attached to your application. You may request the required evaluation/documentation from and Until this documentation is provided, you will not be selected to move forward in the hiring process.
- DOC complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements for the federal employment eligibility verification form I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form.
- DOC does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit
As an employee of the Department of Corrections, your work-life integration is a priority. Washington State employees are offered one of the most inclusive and competitive benefits packages in the nation. Besides comprehensive family insurance for medical, dental, and vision, these perks also may include:
- Remote/telework/flexible schedules (depending on position)
- Up to 25 paid vacations days a year
- 8 hours of paid sick leave per month
- 12 paid holidays a year
- Generous retirement plan
- Flex Spending Accounts
- Dependent Care Assistance
- Deferred Compensation and so much more!
PERS: State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the ' web site.
For questions about this recruitment, or to request reasonable accommodation in the application process, please email ...@doc1.wa.gov. For TTY service, please call the Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 1-800-###-####.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Are you a current, permanent Washington State Department of Corrections employee?
- Yes
- No
02
Do you have a high school diploma?
- Yes
- No
03
Do you have a valid driver's license?
- Yes
- No
04
Do you have three or more years of experience as a Correctional Officer in adult corrections?NOTE: The successful completion of 30 semester or 45 quarter hours of accredited college-level course work can substitute for up to one year of the required correctional experience.
- Yes
- No
05
If you responded "Yes" to the above question, please explain in detail below where you gained this experience. If you answered "No", you must type "N/A".
06
Which of the following custody levels have you worked as a Correctional Officer in an adult correctional facility? Select all that apply.
- Minimum
- Medium
- Close
- Maximum
- None of the above
07
For each of the responses selected in the question above, describe the position, length of time in that role, and your duties. If you answered, "None of the above", you must type "N/A".
08
How many months of experience do you have working in emergency response positions such as specialty correctional teams (ERT, SERT, CNT, IRT), EMT, fire fighter, police officer, or similar positions requiring emergency response?
- 0-5 months
- 6-11 months
- 12-23 months
- 24 or more months
09
In the last 24 months, how many times have you been asked to explain or teach other officers about institutional policies, procedures, statutes and/or regulations? (For example: mentoring/teaching new officers)
- This task has not been requested of me.
- 1-11 times
- 12-23 times
- 24 or more times
10
How many months experience do you have in a correctional setting where you have been responsible for the supervision of one or more subordinates? ("Subordinates" does not include offender workers.)
- 0-5 months
- 6-11 months
- 12-23 months
- 24 or more months
11
How many months of experience do you have in conducting fact finding investigations, offender grievance investigations and/or general infraction disciplinary hearings.
- 0-5 months
- 6-11 months
- 12-23 months
- 24 or more months
12
How do you rate your proficiency in using personal computers and using programs such as Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook or other data base and word processing programs?
- I do not have any experience using these types of programs.
- I have little or no experience using these types of programs, but am willing to learn.
- I am adequate and have used some of these programs.
- I am proficient and have used all of these programs.
- I am very good at using these types of programs and could probably teach others.
13
Describe the steps you have taken to prepare yourself for a Correctional Sergeant position. You may want to include information on your experience mentoring new officers, relevant training courses, or any other opportunities for professional growth you have undertaken.
14
How did you hear about this opportunity?
- Careers.wa.gov; jobs.doc.wa.gov; or governmentjobs.com
- Indeed
- DOC social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter)
- Job/career fair
- Job boards (Monster. ZipRecruiter, GlassDoor, CareerBuilder)
- WorkSource
- Veteran outreach
- Referral from current DOC employee
- Other
15
If you selected 'Other' or 'Referral', feel free to elaborate.
16
If hired for this position, will you require employer sponsorship, either now or in the future?
- Yes
- No
17
If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? (The below link lists acceptable documents:
- Yes
- No
Required Question