Milwaukee County House of Correction jobs; starting pay could top $24/hour
MILWAUKEE - Is a career in corrections for you? Consider this. The Milwaukee County House of Correction (HOC) is dealing with staffing shortages. Because of that, the HOC is now offering a new pay rate and benefits package.
The key to running a jail smoothly is a correctional officer.
"I feel I have the skills, the personality, and I have the mindset of helping others," said Carmena Thorntoe.
After a three-year hiatus, the Milwaukee County House of Correction held its first job fair at the Milwaukee County Zoo. The HOC has full-time openings for correctional officers and maintenance staff
Captain Tremayne Hamberlin said during the pandemic, the HOC struggled to find and keep workers.
"Off top we are down about 60 officers, 60 to 70 officers," Hamberlin said.
Milwaukee County House of Correction
Back in 2019, FOX6 News reported HOC correctional officers were making $18.53 an hour. Three years later, that number has changed.
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"Start pay is $21.01. There is a $3 vaccination compliance. So you could come through the door and making up to $24, which is decent pay," Hamberlin said.
Captain Tremayne Hamberlin
The operators of the HOC hope jobs fairs and a new pay raise will entice new applicants. But a background check and experience is not all officials are looking for.
"We are looking for someone who wants to make a difference in the community. And then secondly, someone whose reliable and also ready to come to work," Hamberlin said.
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Thorntoe told FOX6 News she is ready to make a difference.
"So, like I said, going into the inside helping people, bringing them on the outside, becoming better people that works for me," Thorntoe said.
Carmena Thorntoe
145 other job applicants are hoping they can do the same.
The next House of Correction job fair is set for Monday, May 23 at the Mitchell Park Domes.