U.S. Department of Justice/Federal Bureau of Prisons/FCI Elkton

Correctional Operations Specialist Training Program (COSTP)

Detailed listing

Delivery

In person source value: In-Person

Length

About 4 to 9 weeks source value: 31 - 60 days

Branches

Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, Space Force

Career field

Protective Service

Summary

The Correctional Operations Specialist (COS) position is part of a 6-week intensive training program designed for transitioning military service members under the Department of Defense SkillBridge Transition Program. The program offers comprehensive exposure to correctional operations, security procedures, institutional services, and administrative practices, all based on Bureau of Prisons (BOP) training standards. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training, candidates will gain a broad understanding of correctional services and law enforcement functions, preparing them for roles within correctional facilities and other related environments. Throughout the program, participants will engage in a variety of activities designed to develop key skills in security and inmate management, emergency response, and operational procedures. They will learn to enforce institutional security protocols, manage inmate counts, conduct contraband searches, and respond to crisis situations such as hostage scenarios and inmate disturbances. In addition to shadowing correctional officers and other staff members, participants will rotate through multiple departments, gaining insights into areas such as food service, health services, facilities management, and inmate education and recreation programs. Weekly employee development sessions will support career readiness, covering topics like federal job applications, resume building, and understanding federal benefits. The program culminates in a hands-on capstone project where participants will shadow a department of their choice, preparing for a seamless transition into the workforce.

What the work involves

Job Description for Correctional Officer with the Bureau of Prisons: Provides supervision, care and correctional treatment of inmates and guidance to lower-graded Correctional Officers. Incumbent is concerned with maintenance of institution security contributing to the health and welfare of the inmates and the promotion of good public relations. Enforces rules and regulations governing facility security, inmate accountability and inmate conduct to ensure judicial sanctions are carried out and inmates remain in custody. From time to time, may be authorized to carry firearms and to use physical force, including deadly force, to maintain control of inmates. During institution emergencies or other periods of heavy workload or limited staff, may be required to work long and irregular hours, unusual shifts, Sundays, holidays and unexpected overtime. Information as to operations and procedures is provided by post orders, BOP program statements, local supplements, custodial manual, internal correspondence and staff meetings. Incumbent must be flexible and have a broad knowledge base to use own initiative in the resolution of problem situations.

Locations

• elkton, OH