NCJ Number
85713
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 46 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1982) Pages: 49-53
Date Published
1982
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Following an analysis of the patterns of those who entered the Federal Prison System as correctional guards in 1963 up through June 30, 1980, characteristics and likely career patterns for current hirees are compared with the class of '63.
Abstract
Among 200 new recruits for correctional guards hired in 1963, 130 completed the probationary year and 72 were still employed by the Federal Prison System as of June 30, 1980. Twenty-eight remained in custodial positions while 44 had moved into other positions such as in case management. Their average salary was almost five times their starting salary of $5,035 a year in 1963. The study indicates that career patterns have consisted generally of 'locals,' who remained in the geographic area of their first assignment, and 'movers,' who made a number of geographic changes in the interest of improving their position in the prison system. The movers have higher grade levels. Information on present hirees suggests that the Federal Prison System has moved in the direction of recruiting proportionately more persons who, based upon age and education, appear to fall into the 'movers' category, where careers are marked by transfers and promotions. Yet this comes at a time when promotional and transfer opportunities are decreasing. This would appear to have serious implications for staff morale and turnover. This possibility should be closely monitored, and innovative personnel programs should address the problems identified.