CDCR began accepting applications for the Correctional Officer classification on Monday, October 5, 2020.
To address COVID-19, CDCR has implemented a series of measures to keep staff, correctional officer cadets, and candidates safe during the application, screening, and Basic Correctional Officer Academy.
OPOS has limited the size and number of candidate groups for written exams and physical fitness tests and wearing masks are required, in addition to COVID-19 symptom screening and temperature checks.
The Background Investigation Unit continues to process candidates. Medical examinations are being conducted and online alternatives are being offered for the psychological screening interviews.
Candidates will continue to be processed for upcoming academies to meet CDCR hiring needs.
While at the Academy, cadets are verbally screened daily COVID-19 symptoms and provided touchless temperature checks.
All cadets are provided masks that must be worn while on grounds and physical distancing will be enforced throughout the Academy. There will also be frequent cleaning of all classrooms and common areas.
In July, OPOS announced the suspension of continuous filing for Correctional Officer applications.
Applications were suspended to reduce a backlog of candidates in the testing components. The backlog developed in the spring of 2020 as OPOS reduced written exam and physical fitness test group sizes to provide for social distancing.
OPOS last suspended applications in September 2015, again to reduce a backlog of candidates.
During the application suspension, OPOS continued processing candidates and hiring for the Basic Correctional Officer Academy as well as the Basic Correctional Juvenile Academy.
Interested applicants can apply online at www.joincdcr.com . Questions can be directed to the OPOS main line at (916) 255-2500.