County Correctional Police Officer

COUNTY CORRECTIONAL POLICE OFFICER

DEPARTMENT: Mercer County Correction Center

SALARY: $46,987 (see Training & Advancement section for details)

LOCATION: Hopewell Township, NJ

WORKING HOURS: This is a full-time position requiring shift work in a 24-hour facility. Overtime is mandatory.

APPOINTMENT TYPE: Temporary appointment pending completion of Police Training Commission (PTC) requirements; probationary period applies upon permanent appointment

POSITION(S) AVAILABLE: Multiple

OVERVIEW:

The Mercer County Correction Center is seeking dedicated, community-minded individuals to serve as County Correctional Police Officers. This is a full-time law enforcement position responsible for maintaining the safety, security, and welfare of inmates, staff, and visitors within a 24-hour correctional facility.

Correctional Police Officers play a vital role in public safety by upholding the law, ensuring order, and assisting in the rehabilitation of individuals in custody. Joining Mercer County's correctional team means becoming part of a respected agency committed to justice, professionalism, and service to the community.

APPOINTMENT STATUS:

Appointees must successfully complete the New Jersey Police Training Commission (NJPTC) Basic Course for County Correctional Police Officers as a condition of continued employment.

Upon successful completion of the NJPTC training program, the employee will transition to a regular appointment in accordance with Civil Service regulations. A twelve (12)-month probationary period will then apply.

In addition, employees are eligible for a $3,000 Retention Bonus , awarded upon completion of the NJPTC Basic Course. This bonus is contingent upon remaining employed with Mercer County for three (3) years following the date of academy completion. Employees who voluntarily resign or are terminated for cause prior to completing this three-year period will be required to repay the retention bonus.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain care, custody, and control of inmates in accordance with established procedures and policies.
• Supervise inmate activities, movements, and housing units to ensure compliance with facility regulations.
• Conduct inspections and searches to detect contraband and prevent safety or security hazards.
• Escort inmates to courts, medical appointments, and other authorized locations.
• Respond promptly to emergencies or disturbances and apply de-escalation techniques when necessary.
• Complete incident and disciplinary reports clearly and accurately.
• Support rehabilitative programs and uphold the values of accountability, integrity, and respect within the correctional setting.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Citizenship: Must be a United States citizen.
• Age: Minimum 18 years old.
• License: Must possess a valid New Jersey driver's license.
• Experience: Prior correctional, law enforcement, or military experience preferred but not required.

TRAINING & ADVANCEMENT:

• Completion of the NJPTC Basic Course for County Correctional Police Officers is required.
• Training includes firearms proficiency, defensive tactics, emergency response, and inmate management.
• Upon successful completion and certification, officers begin the 12-month probationary period.
• Advancement opportunities include Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, and specialized units such as K-9, SERT (Special Emergency Response Team), and Transportation Detail.

BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH MERCER COUNTY:

Mercer County offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports employee wellness, financial stability, and career growth:

• Health, dental, vision, and prescription coverage
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
• Retirement benefits
• Uniform allowances
• Continuing education and career development opportunities