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Do you see yourself working for an agency that incorporates justice with second chances? Then you’re ready to consider CDCR jobs. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is more than just a law enforcement agency. It manages over 30 adult institutions, juvenile facilities, and parole offices across the state, playing a key role in both public safety and rehabilitation. This organization combines security with support services, education, mental health, and vocational training to guide individuals toward positive change.
As part of CDCR careers, individuals from a wide range of backgrounds are currently needed. Whether you’re interested in frontline roles like a correctional officer or parole agent, or you’d rather contribute as a nurse, teacher, or IT specialist, there’s a place for you here. The department offers a number of career opportunities that are backed by comprehensive training, benefits, and growth possibilities. Joining them is an excellent opportunity to build a stable career while making a genuine impact on the lives of others. So apply soon!
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| Company Name: | CDCR |
| Job Locations: | USA |
| Last Updated on: | June 2nd, 2025 |
CDCR Jobs in United States 2025 | Latest Job Vacancies
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CDCR: Department’s Overview
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is the largest state-run correctional agency in the United States. With a workforce of over 60,000 employees, it is responsible for the custody, supervision, and rehabilitation of more than 100,000 incarcerated individuals. The department’s primary mission revolves around enhancing public safety through secure incarceration, while also delivering rehabilitation services that promote positive behavioral change. It is also guided by values such as honesty, accountability, collaboration, and respect.
These values are reflected in how it treats both its workforce and the individuals under its care. What sets CDCR apart is its interdisciplinary approach to corrections. Beyond its security operations, the department provides education, mental healthcare, addiction recovery, vocational training, and transitional support to help individuals reenter society successfully. It manages everything from the state’s basic correctional academy to innovative restorative justice initiatives and trauma-informed care programs.
Work Culture at CDCR
Working in a CDCR facility means being part of a highly structured environment where teamwork, communication, and accountability are part of daily life. It’s a workplace where staff support one another, especially in high-stakes situations, and where personal growth is encouraged through ongoing training and promotion opportunities. Although working in a correctional facility can be challenging, many employees describe it as rewarding. This is especially true since their role contributes to public safety and rehabilitation.
Types of CDCR Job Opportunities
With so many facilities and operations throughout California, applying to CDCR jobs allows you to pursue both frontline and backstage positions. Whether you’re hoping to work directly with imprisoned individuals or support the agency in a professional capacity, there are job opportunities to match nearly any skill set. View some of the most frequently listed job openings.
CDCR Correctional Officer Jobs
Correctional officers are responsible for supervising inmates, maintaining safety within the facility, and responding to emergencies. This position requires passing physical fitness standards and attending the Basic Correctional Officer Academy. Officers also help enforce rules and encourage rehabilitation. It’s a physically and mentally demanding job, but one that offers structure and potential for success.
CDCR Nursing Jobs
Licensed Vocational Nurses, Registered Nurses, and Nurse Practitioners work inside institutions, often providing direct care in demanding clinical environments. These positions involve shift work and require quick thinking, collaboration, and resilience. Nurses are part of a broader medical team that supports physical and mental health care. Working in corrections adds layers of both responsibility and reward.
CDCR Healthcare Jobs
Beyond nursing, CDCR hires a wide range of medical professionals including physicians, dentists, psychologists, and therapists. These experts contribute to the Mental Health Services Delivery System and are often key to inmates’ wellness and recovery. Healthcare staff work closely with the custody and administrative teams. The need for specialized care makes these roles both necessary and respected.
CDCR Education & Rehabilitation Jobs
Teachers, librarians, and vocational instructors play a key role in preparing inmates for reentry into society. They teach subjects like GED prep, trades, and life skills in classroom-style settings within institutions. These roles require patience and the ability to engage a non-traditional student population. The impact is long-lasting and often deeply personal.
CDCR Law Enforcement & Investigative Roles
CDCR also hires parole agents, correctional counselors, and special investigators who operate in the field or handle complicated cases within facilities. These roles involve traveling, working with community partners, and following up on legal cases or violations. It’s an exciting path with a law enforcement base and a rehabilitation focus.
CDCR Remote Jobs
While many CDCR jobs require presence in secure facilities, there are a growing number of remote-friendly jobs in administrative, IT, and analytical roles. Positions like data analysts, policy researchers, and HR specialists may be eligible for telework arrangements depending on department needs. Interested applicants can use the CalCareers portal to filter job listings by remote options and see which classifications support flexible work.
Salary & Benefits
Across CDCR jobs, employees enjoy generous salaries that reflect their challenging and specialized duties. For instance, correctional officers earn between $65,664 and $95,184 depending on tenure and location. Nurses typically earn $95,472 up to $120,360, while physicians can make well over $275,500 annually. In addition to these earnings, CDCR offers a full suite of benefits that make working here financially secure and stable.
- Wellness programs include mental health support.
- Confidential employee assistance services.
- Tax-deferred retirement savings options.
- Optional group life insurance plans.
- Paid parental and family leave.
- Flexible or alternate work schedules.
- Career coaching and mentorship.
- Employee discounts on travel and retail.
- Free safety gear and work tools.
Eligibility Criteria
In order to apply for CDCR jobs, you need to meet specific qualifications that depend on the position. These requirements help ensure safety, competence, and long-term suitability to work in a correctional environment. Become familiar with the basic criteria involved.
- Applicants must be at least 20 years old at the time of application and possess U.S. citizenship or legal residency.
- Most roles require a high school diploma or equivalent, and licensed roles must have valid credentials from California regulatory boards.
- A comprehensive investigation is conducted, including fingerprinting, criminal history, and personal references.
- Certain positions demand passing a physical agility test and psychological screening, especially in peace officer roles.
- Specialist roles may require professional certifications, postgraduate degrees, or years of experience in the relevant field.
- Parole agents and field investigators must maintain a clean driving record and hold a valid California driver’s license.
- Candidates must be willing to attend mandatory training programs, such as the correctional academy or continuing education.
- Bilingual applicants or those with specialized IT skills may be prioritized for certain job types.
- Applicants should be open to placement at various CDCR facilities in the state, based on department needs.
Application Process for CDCR Jobs
Application management for CDCR jobs is handled by the California state hiring system. Anyone interested in applying must go through their hiring portal and follow a series of steps. Let’s begin with:
- Visit the company’s site by selecting “Apply Here” below.
- Choose your preferred work location from the options listed.
- Click “Apply Online” to be redirected to the CalCareers website.
- Create or log into your CalCareers account.
- Search for Correctional Officer job postings.
- Complete the STD 678 State Application form.
- Upload all required documents, including a resume if applicable.
- Submit the application and wait for confirmation via email.
Summary
While CDCR jobs are not for everyone, they are perfect for those seeking long-term stability, meaningful work, and the chance to be part of California’s public safety and rehabilitation efforts. With hundreds of job classifications, excellent benefits, and training programs designed for growth, the department offers something for nearly every career goal. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to change paths, CDCR is worth considering.
FAQs
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