Chris Rollins’ Job-Hunting Tip: Mercer County Corrections Invests in Officers’ Long-Term Success

The Mercer County Corrections Center is in the middle of a recruitment drive to hire entry-level County Correctional police Officers with an upfront $3,000 retention bonus for three years of guaranteed work.

I was just chatting with Warden Timothy Friel, and I have to say I was impressed with the benefits and the opportunities to advance. Tim is truly committed to maintaining a culture of continuous career growth, staff support, and professional respect across all levels at the correction center.

I've always believed you should work where they invest in you as much as you invest in them. Mercer County Corrections is looking to invest in long-term employees who want to grow in both their personal and professional lives. When you put on that uniform, you're doing a job that's important to our community, and your paycheck will reflect that.

Free Academy Training & A Sign-On Bonus

You don't need any training or law enforcement experience to get started. You need to:

• Be 18 or older
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Live in New Jersey (you don’t have to live in Mercer County)
• Be able to pass a medical exam and a background check
• Have a valid New Jersey driver's license

They'll send you through the necessary Academy training, where you'll learn inmate management, defensive tactics, emergency response, and firearms proficiency.

That's just the beginning: The $3,000 retention bonus is paid up-front to eligible new employees who commit to remaining employed with Mercer County for at least three years.

Building Real Stability from Day One

Whether you're just entering the workforce or you're tired of bouncing from one dead-end job to another, you can apply knowing that you'll find a career path here. The starting base salary is $46,987.  There's a generous benefits package to support you and your family. New hires receive full health, dental, and vision coverage, an employee assistance program, and plenty of paid sick, vacation, and personal days.

To promote continuous growth, county leaders also provide tuition reimbursement and ongoing professional development. Long-term growth opportunities include advancing in rank (sergeant, lieutenant, or captain) or joining specialized units such as Special Investigations, MERT (Mercer Emergency Response Team), and Transportation Detail.

One of the best reasons to join this solid team?  A pension and retirement savings program that will secure your future long after your service is done.

Ready for a career that supports your goals? Visit mercercounty.org/careers and apply today. It will be the first step toward the future you want.

Mercer County is an equal opportunity employer.