Applicants must possess the ability to follow instructions and communicate both verbally and in writing, including written reports and maintaining records. Be able to work cooperatively with coworkers, and have a good moral character capable of setting an example of appropriate ethical conduct.

For prospective candidates, law enforcement or corrections experience is preferred by the Montana Department of Corrections, it isn’t necessarily required.

Additional requirements that you must meet in order to become a correctional officer for the state of Montana include:

• Must have a valid Driver’s License
• Be able to Qualify with Firearms
• Submit to a Criminal History Background Check
• Submit to a Driving History Records Check
• If Hired, Know that you must respond in the event of an emergency
• Complete the Montana Law Enforcement Academy (MLEA) & Basic Site Specific Training

To apply, click here to search for current job openings, and fill out the State Online Job Application.

Be sure to also fill out the Authorization to Release Information, so that a background check can be performed to clear you for employment.

Montana Law Enforcement Academy completion is a requirement that all state correction officers must meet within the first 12 months of hire. The schedule for upcoming classes can be found here, and access to the basic & professional course form packet can be found at this link.

If offered employment, you will complete the Orientation and Field Officer Training. The Corrections/Detention Officer (CDO) Basic Course is four weeks of training where you will learn the operations and proficiencies necessary to become a Correctional Officer. Officers hired for juvenile facilities need to pass the Juvenile Correctional Officer Basic Training within the first year.

There is a six month probationary period after hire. Continued employment is contingent upon passing a medical physical, and having the ability to demonstrate physical capacity to practice physical intervention using restraints and perform on the Quick Response Team.