CORRECTIONAL OFFICER I - Buena Vista Correctional Complex

CDOC – Correctional Officer I (CO I) – Buena Vista

The Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) is hiring for vacant positions at the Buena Vista Correctional Complex, which includes:

• Buena Vista Correctional Facility (BVCF) – medium custody, 934 inmates, opened 1892

• Buena Vista Minimum Center (BVMC) – minimum custody, 300 inmates, opened 1999

Current CDOC CO I employees may apply for transfers through the Central Transfer Process. Applicants should review Administrative Regulations (AR 100’s and 300’s series) at CDOC Policies to prepare for comparative analysis. Assessment scores may be used for future announcements.

Why Work for CDOC?

• Opportunities for career advancement statewide

• Strong retirement benefits (PERA plans + 401K/457)

• Medical, dental, disability, life insurance

• Paid holidays, vacation, sick leave

• Tuition reimbursement, wellness programs, training

Job Summary:
Correctional Officers maintain safety and security in CDOC facilities while supporting the department’s mission and preparing inmates for community reentry. Key responsibilities include:

• Working directly with inmates in locked facilities

• Monitoring access, securing restricted areas, armed posts

• Operating security equipment, alarms, mechanical doors

• Controlling inmate movement, conducting counts and searches

• Escorting and transporting inmates

• Responding to emergencies (fights, medical, fires, escapes)

• Documenting incidents, communicating relevant information

Officers must be willing to work all shifts, including doubles, weekends, and holidays.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED

• Legally eligible to work in the U.S. (CDOC uses e-Verify)

• At least 18 years old

• Valid, unrestricted driver’s license

• No felony convictions; must pass background investigation and health screening

• Successful completion of CDOC Basic Training, including physical and defensive tactics testing

Required Competencies:

• Strong work ethic, integrity, and accountability

• Sound judgment, reasoning, and decision-making skills

• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills

• Ability to communicate effectively in English

• Knowledge of criminal justice, ADA, PREA, and CDOC policies

• Physical ability to perform defensive tactics, use force, firearms, and respond to emergencies

• Ability to monitor inmates, conduct searches, operate security equipment, and follow established safety protocols

• Tolerance for stress and potentially violent situations

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bilingual skills

• Mentoring or volunteer experience

Assessment Process:
Applicants meeting minimum qualifications will undergo a comparative analysis, which may include suitability screening, eSkills assessments, oral or written exams, and review of application materials. Complete the “Work Experience” section fully; resumes alone are not accepted. Ten years of relevant work experience must be included for background checks.

Technical Support:
For NEOGOV issues, call 855-524-5627 (Mon-Fri, 6am–6pm PT).

Additional Information:

• CDOC enforces a drug-free workplace; marijuana use on duty is prohibited. Drug tests are required at hire and randomly thereafter.

• Employees may request accommodations for disabilities during the application or hiring process. Contact Kristen Lange at [email protected] or 719-723-3998.

• All facilities are tobacco-free.

Equal Opportunity:
CDOC encourages candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities. Hiring is based on merit and fitness without discrimination.

Appeals:
Applicants eliminated from consideration may appeal through the State Personnel Board within ten calendar days. More info: SPB Colorado.

Contact:

• CO I Hiring Team: [email protected] or 719-723-3447

• Ensure your email is active, as time-sensitive notifications are sent electronically.

Housing Assistance:
CDOC partners with Fading West Development LLC to assist employees with housing in the Buena Vista area (housing not guaranteed).