HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A Canadian secondary-school student often finishes Grade 12, then may apply for a college diploma or university program such as criminology, criminal justice, or a related field. Others may enter after some work or volunteer experience in security, community safety, or justice-related settings, depending on employer preferences. Training usually includes learning rules, report writing, observation, conflict management, and safety procedures, sometimes with on-the-job instruction and supervised practice. Requirements can vary by province, employer, and correctional setting, so some jobs may ask for additional background checks or specific training before starting.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Observe conduct and behaviour of prisoners to prevent disturbances and escapes
- Supervise prisoners during work assignments, meals and recreation periods
- Patrol assigned area and report any problems to supervisor
- Observe behaviour of prisoners and prepare reports
- Escort prisoners in transit and during temporary leaves
- Prepare admission, program, release, transfer and other reports
- May supervise and co-ordinate work of other correctional service officers.