Corrections Officer - Paid Training, No Experience Required

Cumberland County Government

Portland, ME

$27.98–$31.39 an hour Evening shift New

About this job

Looking for a stable career with real impact-and strong pay from day one?

At Cumberland County Jail, you don't need prior corrections experience to get started. We'll train you, certify you, and pay you while you learn. What we're looking for are people who can stay calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and treat others with fairness and respect.

This isn't just about security-it's about structure, accountability, and helping people move forward. Please note, applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time. Pay amounts described below reflect the County's good-faith estimate of pay for this position at the time of posting. Starting pay is determined based on qualifications and experience in alignment with the collective bargaining agreement.

What You'll Earn
  • Starting pay: $27.98 - $31.39/hour
  • No experience, evening shift (3-11pm): $28.68/hour to start
  • Overtime stipend: +$5.15/hour over 56 hours
  • Shift differentials:
    • +$0.70/hour (3pm-11pm)
    • +$0.85/hour (11pm-7am)
    • +$1.00/hour (weekends)
  • Education pay: up to +$0.38/hour
  • Already certified?
    • $6,000 sign-on bonus
    • Credit for up to 15 years of experience (pay)
    • Up to 10 years credit toward vacation time
What You'll Do
  • Maintain safety and security for staff and inmates
  • Monitor housing units and conduct routine checks
  • Respond to incidents and de-escalate conflict
  • Escort inmates to court, medical, and other appointments
  • Document behavior and write clear reports
  • Enforce rules consistently and fairly
  • Support a structured, respectful environment
Why This Job Stands Out
  • Paid training + certification (no experience needed)
  • No-deductible health insurance
  • Maine State Retirement + Social Security
  • Tuition assistance
  • Clear paths to advancement (including patrol and other county roles)
  • A career where every day matters
What You Need
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to pass background check, physical, and drug screen
  • Strong communication and decision-making skills
  • Ability to stay professional in stressful situations
  • Willingness to work nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime
Who Succeeds Here

People who are:

  • Calm under pressure
  • Fair, consistent, and observant
  • Comfortable setting boundaries
  • Respectful-but not easily pushed around
Make an Impact-Apply Today

If you're looking for a career with stability, purpose, and real earning potential, we'd love to hear from you!

Cumberland County is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected Veteran status.

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Compensation details: 27.98-30.18 Hourly Wage



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Before you apply

What an interview usually asks

  1. What would you do in your first 90 days here?
  2. What would you do if a teammate was not pulling their weight?
  3. What does success look like in this role in the first six months?
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