Experienced Correctional Officer

Role overview

The Northern Territory Department of Corrections is seeking experienced Correctional Officers to work in Darwin, Alice Springs, or Tennant Creek on ongoing or fixed-term full-time appointments. This role sits within a team dedicated to the safe, secure, and respectful management of prisoners, with a strong focus on rehabilitation, education, training, and reintegration into the community.

What the role involves

In this position, you will carry out a varied and active set of duties in a correctional environment. You will help maintain safety and order while supporting prisoners through structured supervision and security practices.

• Oversee, observe, and manage prisoners in a correctional facility.
• Apply the appropriate security controls to protect prisoners, staff, and the wider facility.
• Escort prisoners when required and respond effectively to emergencies.
• Where you hold a Trade Certificate, you may also guide and train prisoners in Correctional Services Industries, helping them build practical skills in manufacturing and service areas.

What you need to succeed

The department is looking for applicants with solid correctional experience, strong communication skills, excellent organisation, and the ability to work effectively in culturally diverse environments. You must have recent, relevant experience and the required correctional qualification.

• A minimum of 2 years' experience as a Correctional Officer in a correctional facility within the last 2 years.
• Certificate III in Correctional Practice, or an equivalent qualification.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Good organisational ability and sound judgement.
• Demonstrated ability to work respectfully in cross-cultural settings.

Pay and benefits

The remuneration package is $107,825 to $118,299 inclusive of superannuation and allowances, with base pay stated as $69,074 to $75,784. A number of additional benefits and allowances are available depending on qualification and location.

• Market-leading salary.
• Opportunities for overtime.
• Up to 7 weeks of recreation leave each year.
• Work-life balance with 13 shifts across 28 days.
• Two weeks of intensive fast-track training.
• Competitive salary package with a 40% consolidated allowance.
• 6 weeks of recreational leave and 3 weeks of personal leave.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Uniforms provided.
• Wellness allowance.
• Paid overtime opportunities.
• For Alice Springs, an attraction and retention allowance of $10,000 is paid in instalments: $2,500 after 3 months, $2,500 after 6 months, and $5,000 after 12 months.
• For Alice Springs, an ongoing retention allowance applies, with a $5,000 lump sum after each completed 12 months of continuous service.
• Applicants may negotiate commencement salary during the recruitment process.
• Applicants with Certificate III in Correctional Practice receive a salary range of $69,074 to $75,784 plus 40% consolidated allowance and 11.5% superannuation, totalling a remuneration package of $107,825 to $118,299.
• Applicants with Certificate IV in Correctional Practice start at $75,784 plus 40% consolidated allowance and 11.5% superannuation, totalling a remuneration package of $118,299.

Eligibility and selection

Applicants must be Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens, or Australian permanent residents. The Northern Territory Public Sector values a diverse workforce and, under its Special Measures Plan, eligible Aboriginal applicants will receive priority consideration. People from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Other information

Suitable applicants may be placed into a talent pool and offered roles as vacancies arise across the Territory. The Northern Territory offers a relaxed lifestyle, warm weather, tropical sunsets, striking landscapes, and a strong cultural and community atmosphere. For more information, the department can be contacted on 08 8928 7392 or by email at [email protected]. Vacancy number: 7923006. The Northern Territory Correctional Services RTO Number is 1074 and the training is nationally recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework.