Suffolk County Correction Officers: Life Insurance Coverage Explained

Correction Officers in Suffolk County, New York, are responsible for maintaining the custody, safety, and well-being of prisoners by enforcing laws, rules, and regulations to prevent disturbances, assaults, and escapes. They are designated as peace officers by New York State law and may be required to carry firearms. These officers enjoy a competitive benefits package, which includes health, vision, and dental insurance, as well as life insurance. This article will explore the role of a Suffolk County Correction Officer and the benefits they receive, including life insurance.

Suffolk County Correction Officers' life insurance as part of their benefits package

Suffolk County Correction Officers life insurance as part of their benefits package

Suffolk County Correction Officers are offered a competitive benefits package that includes life insurance. The benefits package is designed to provide comprehensive support to officers, ensuring their well-being and financial security.

The life insurance coverage provided by Suffolk County offers financial protection to the officers' loved ones in the event of their death. This coverage can provide peace of mind and help ease financial burdens during a difficult time.

In addition to life insurance, Suffolk County Correction Officers are also entitled to a range of other benefits that contribute to their overall well-being. These benefits include health, vision, and dental insurance, providing essential care for their physical health. The county also offers tuition reimbursement, demonstrating a commitment to the officers' professional development and educational pursuits.

The benefits package also includes issued uniforms and equipment, ensuring that officers have the necessary tools and resources to perform their duties effectively. Additionally, officers can take advantage of military time credit, which recognizes and values their service and contributions to the country.

One of the standout benefits offered by Suffolk County is the New York State Pension. This pension plan provides financial security during retirement, allowing officers to retire after 25 years of service, regardless of their age. This pension is a significant advantage, ensuring a stable income later in life.

The comprehensive benefits package, which includes life insurance, demonstrates Suffolk County's commitment to supporting its Correction Officers throughout their careers and beyond. These benefits not only protect the officers but also provide for their families, ensuring a sense of security and stability.

Overall, the life insurance offered as part of the benefits package for Suffolk County Correction Officers is a valuable component of their total compensation. It reflects the county's recognition of the importance of providing for the financial well-being of its dedicated law enforcement professionals.

Requirements to become a Suffolk County Correction Officer

To become a Suffolk County Correction Officer, you must meet the following requirements:

Minimum Qualifications

• Be a United States Citizen
• Be 21 years of age (20 years and 6 months old by the date of the written test)
• Have graduated from a standard senior high school or possess a high school equivalency diploma by the date of appointment
• Possess a valid New York State driver's license at the time of appointment and maintain it throughout employment
• Pass a medical exam
• Pass a psychological exam
• Pass a background investigation
• Pass the Cooper Standards physical fitness test

Desirable Skills

• Good knowledge of the policies, rules and regulations of the Suffolk County Correctional Facilities and applicable New York State laws, rules and regulations
• Good knowledge of first aid techniques
• Skill in the use and care of firearms and other less lethal weapons as required
• Ability to deal fairly but firmly with individuals under their care
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to be in the physical condition to deal with the demands of the position

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• 50% pension eligibility after 25 years regardless of age
• Overtime paid at 1.5X your regular hourly rate
• Accrued vacation days, sick time, personal time
• Medical, prescription, vision/dental benefits
• Life insurance
• No-cost uniforms and equipment
• Tuition reimbursement

Salary and benefits of Suffolk County Correction Officers

The starting salary for a Suffolk County Correction Officer I is $49,721, with a salary step increase every six months. By the third year, the salary is $64,475, and by the fifth year, it is $79,842. After 12 years, the salary reaches $124,235.

The benefits of being a Suffolk County Correction Officer include:

• A competitive salary
• 50% pension eligibility after 25 years of service, regardless of age
• Overtime paid at 1.5 times the regular hourly rate
• Accrued vacation days, sick time, and personal time
• Medical, prescription, vision, and dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Issued uniforms and equipment at no cost
• Tuition reimbursement
• Military time credit
• Retirement after 25 years, regardless of age

Suffolk County Correction Officers are also designated as peace officers by New York State law and may be required to carry firearms for certain duties. They are responsible for maintaining the custody, safety, and well-being of prisoners by enforcing laws, rules, and regulations to prevent disturbances, assaults, and escapes.

Responsibilities of Suffolk County Correction Officers

Correction Officers in Suffolk County have a wide range of responsibilities, all geared towards maintaining order and security at the county's correctional facilities in Riverhead and Yaphank. Here is a detailed overview of their responsibilities:

Direct Supervision of Inmates:

Correction Officers are responsible for the direct supervision and management of inmates within the Suffolk County Correctional Facilities. They ensure the safety and well-being of inmates by enforcing laws, rules, and regulations to prevent disturbances, assaults, and escapes. This includes maintaining custody, enforcing rules, and providing for the basic needs of the inmates.

Maintaining Security:

Suffolk County Correction Officers are tasked with maintaining security within the correctional facilities. They are designated as peace officers by New York State law and may be required to carry firearms when performing certain duties. They are responsible for preventing escapes, maintaining order, and responding to emergencies.

Record-Keeping and Report Writing:

Correction Officers are responsible for preparing and maintaining accurate records pertaining to inmate activities, incidents, and other relevant information. They must also be proficient in preparing written reports, which includes understanding and interpreting written material effectively.

Understanding and Applying Laws, Rules, and Regulations:

Officers must have a comprehensive understanding of the policies, rules, and regulations of the Suffolk County Correctional Facilities, as well as applicable New York State laws. They are responsible for ensuring that the rights of inmates are respected while also maintaining order and security.

Interpersonal Skills:

Correction Officers must possess strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate effectively, deal with individuals firmly but fairly, and act calmly and quickly in emergency situations. They must be able to interact professionally with inmates, colleagues, and the general public.

Physical Fitness and Weapon Proficiency:

Officers are required to maintain a certain level of physical fitness to handle the demands of the job. They must pass a physical agility evaluation and be in good physical condition. Additionally, they must be skilled in the use and care of firearms and other less-lethal weapons as required by the position.

Medical and Psychological Evaluations:

Suffolk County Correction Officers undergo regular medical and psychological evaluations to ensure they are fit for duty. This includes assessments of their physical health, mental health, and ability to handle the stresses and demands of the job.

Suffolk County Correction Officers play a critical role in maintaining the safety, security, and well-being of inmates within the county's correctional facilities. Their responsibilities are diverse and require a combination of knowledge, physical fitness, interpersonal skills, and a strong understanding of laws and regulations.

Training and preparation for becoming a Suffolk County Correction Officer

To become a Suffolk County Correction Officer, there are several minimum requirements that candidates must meet. These include:

• Being a US Citizen
• Being 21 years of age (20 years and 6 months old by the date of the written test)
• Having a high school diploma or GED equivalency
• Possessing a valid, active, and renewable driver's license
• Passing a medical exam, psychological exam, and background investigation
• Passing the Cooper Standards physical fitness test

Candidates who meet these minimum requirements can then proceed with the application process, which includes the following steps:

• Initial Application Review: The application is reviewed for completeness, and a national Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check is performed.
• Custody Interview: Applicants are invited to a panel interview with representatives of Custody Command and Human Resources, which includes case scenario questions and a review of the applicant's personal and employment history.
• Drug Test: All applicants must submit to a pre-employment drug screening via a hair sample, which is administered immediately after the Custody Interview.
• Physical Readiness: Applicants are strongly encouraged to physically prepare for the rigorous challenges they will encounter during the Correction Officer Training Academy (COTA).
• Entrance Exam: Applicants must take a 2.5-hour test administered by the SCSD Recruitment Team, consisting of multiple-choice and essay questions based on department policies and procedures.
• Facility Tour and Background Check: Candidates are invited to a tour of the facility and undergo a comprehensive background check, including employment history, driving history, and personal reference checks.
• Full Application Review: The candidate's entire application, including the entrance exam and physical fitness test results, custody interview assessment, and background check, is reviewed.
• Superintendent Panel Review: Candidates are invited to a panel interview with the Superintendents of the Department. If they pass this interview, they receive an invitation to join the upcoming COTA class.

The Correction Officer Training Academy (COTA) is a crucial part of the training and preparation for becoming a Suffolk County Correction Officer. It is a 12-week, paid training academy that operates Monday through Friday from 5:30 AM to 2:30 PM. The curriculum includes CPR training and certification, policy and procedures review, classroom instruction, and physical training in a strict, paramilitary environment. Officer Candidates graduate with the confidence and knowledge needed to become successful Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department Correction Officers.

Frequently asked questions