How to become a corrections officer in South Dakota
The South Dakota Department of Corrections hires state corrections officers under the title Correctional Officer. New officers start at $53,248 a year, rising to $66,768.
Pay
| Starting salary | $53,248 |
|---|---|
| Top of scale | $66,768 |
| Scale effective | 2026-10-19 |
Start is the posted hiring rate ($25.60/hr × 2080). Top is the grade GG maximum in the FY27 state pay structure ($32.10/hr × 2080).
Requirements
- Education: None required; posting states no prior education or experience is necessary
- Pass background investigation (arrest/conviction record does not necessarily bar employment)
- Pass drug screening and abuse/neglect screening
- TB screening on hire
- Pass all DOC Basic Training modules incl. English reading comprehension, defensive tactics and firearms
- Able to work 12-hour rotating shifts, weekends and holidays; OC spray exposure in training
Academy
Length not published, paid. DOC Basic Training with written/practical exams in defensive tactics and firearms/armed transport; DOC careers page says 'Get paid during basic training'. Length not published.[doc.sd.gov]
Pension and retirement
- Plan: South Dakota Retirement System (SDRS) - Class B (public safety), Generational member
- Benefit formula: 2% of final average compensation per year of Class B credited service (SDCL 3-12C-1205, generational members)
- When you can retire: Normal retirement age 57 for Class B public safety generational members (SDCL 3-12C-1203); vested members may retire up to 10 years early with 5%/yr reduction (SDCL 3-12C-1207); vested after 3 years
Posting: 'Officers are eligible for Class B retirement with 8% matching contributions.' New members join as generational members (statute chapter 3-12C part 12).
Source:[sdlegislature.gov]
Checked against official sources on 2026-10-23. Pay plans change; confirm with the employer before applying.