Hiring Process
There are 7 steps to our hiring process: Application; Written Examination; Physical Fitness Test, Background Investigation; Pre-Employment Medical Examination; Psychological Screening; and Eligible for Hire. Some of the steps may have smaller elements within them.
STEP 1
Start the hiring process by applying online for the Correctional Officer (CO), Youth Correctional Officer (YCO), and or Youth Correctional Counselor (YCC) classification. CO applications are accepted on a continuous basis. YCO and YCC applications are accepted several times a year. After applying, you will receive an email notification within 7-10 business days with your written examination date.
STEP 2
Written Examination
The written examination is designed to evaluate applicant skills in the areas of grammar, spelling, punctuation, reading comprehension, and basic mathematics. The exam is one hour and forty-five minutes and has 53 multiple-choice questions. Candidates will receive examination results within 1-3 business days via email.
STEP 3
Physical Fitness Test
The Physical Fitness Test (PFT) evaluates each candidate’s strength, endurance, and agility as required to satisfactorily perform the essential duties and functions expected of a CO/YCO/YCC. For more information view the PFT web page.
STEP 4
Background Investigation
The background investigation process consists of a thorough background investigation into each applicant’s past and current employment, residence history, relationships, credit responsibility, criminality, computerized voice stress analysis (CVSA) and fingerprint search.
STEP 5
Medical Exam and Vision Test
This is a comprehensive physical examination conducted by licensed physicians under contract with the CDCR to evaluate a candidate’s overall physical health, including vision, color vision, hearing, blood work, Respiratory FIT mask test, and a urinalysis drug screening.
STEP 6
Psychological Evaluation
To evaluate a candidate’s psychological suitability, the candidate will participate in a Written Peace Officer Psychological Evaluation (POPE) and an Oral Psychological Interview. This evaluation consists of a series of questions candidates respond to based upon their personal preferences.
STEP 7
Eligible for Hire
After successfully completing all of the selection components, candidates are placed on the certification list, which gives them eligibility to be appointed as a Correctional Peace Officer. Generally, it takes 12 to 18 months for completion of the hiring process, but may take longer depending on process times.