Working as a Peace Officer
CDCR’s Mission and Vision
Mission
To facilitate the successful reintegration of the individuals in our care back to their communities equipped with the tools to be drug-free, healthy, and employable members of society by providing education, treatment, rehabilitative, and restorative justice programs, all in a safe and humane environment.
Vision
We enhance public safety and promote successful community reintegration through education, treatment and active participation in rehabilitative and restorative justice programs.
When you become a peace officer with CDCR, you join a family of dedicated, hardworking men and women who ensure public safety in California.
Become a peace officer today
There are many career paths open to you as a CDCR peace officer:
- Correctional Counselor
- K-9 Officer
- Parole Agent
- Internal Affairs Special Agent
- Correctional Safety Special Agent
You can also work with specialized teams at CDCR:
- Investigative Services Unit
- Crisis Response Team
- Gang Task Force
- Fugitive Apprehension Team
- Transportation Unit
Job Shadowing Program
National Correctional Officer Week!
Learn about the new CDCR K‑9 officers graduating the academy – click here for the article.
What is it like to work as a female Correctional Officer?
Every female Officer has her own unique perspective on how being a woman affects her role as a Correctional Officer. Some officers do not give their gender much thought, and others find their role to be unique. All Correctional Officers receive the same training and must perform the same duties. Women have proven that they are up to the challenge of working in Corrections, and are a valuable asset to the team.
The advantage of having such a diverse workforce is that everyone works as a team to communicate with offenders and keep the facility operating well. Every woman can consider a career in law enforcement. Do not be intimidated – be confident! You can do it.
Help rehabilitate offenders and improve the safety of California
At CDCR, each institution is like its own city, with its own characteristics and atmosphere. You will always have the support and quick response time from your fellow officers, working together as a team.
As a Correctional Officer, you will work multiple different work shifts. Our institutions operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
There are many different positions available within each institution:
- Housing Unit
- Culinary
- Search and Escort
- Yard Coverage
- Tower
- Control Booth
- Transportation
- Gate/Entrance
- Visiting
- Medical/Hospital Coverage
