"I feel most motivated in my work when I am part of a well-oiled machine. Working in a facility where excellent systems are in place to ensure everyone is set up to keep the machine running motivates me more than anything. No matter what my part is, I consider myself an engineer. Keep the ship going, make sure everything is running well, and that no saboteurs throw a wrench in the mechanisms. I take a lot of pride in coming in, following protocol, and doing my part to make sure the machine keeps running as it is supposed to."

Whatever your reasons for wanting to work in this field, you should spend some time rehearsing your answer. Whether you're interested in helping the sentenced to get back on track, or working in a structured, high-pressure environment similar to your military background, be honest with your reasons for seeking this position. Just be respectful, professional, and unbiased.

The advice of veteran correction officers is to exhibit a personal motivation to rehabilitate the sentenced. Yet, ironically, compassion and empathy aren't traits possessed by those they hire for most positions. However, correctional officers score highly on social responsibility, indicating that they desire fair outcomes and have a general concern for others. They do typically score highly for a desire to seek opportunities where they are in a position of authority in a rule-bound, structured environment.