The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) in Hawaii is tackling significant staffing shortages that have been problematic for the effective execution of governmental operations. Currently facing over 425 vacancies for adult corrections officers (ACO) out of an authorized total of 1,535 positions, the DCR has launched a robust recruitment initiative named “Unlocking Potential.” This campaign began in the summer of 2024 and has shown promising results, garnering interest from over 755 eligible applicants and managing to fill nearly 190 ACO positions, which includes 89 temporary hires, from January 1 through October 15 of this year. Despite this progress, around 370 ACO positions still remain unfilled as of mid-October.
The recruitment campaign marks a substantial improvement compared to the previous year, when only about 570 eligible applicants led to approximately 100 successful placements in ACO roles. DCR Director Tommy Johnson underscored the necessity of hiring individuals who possess the appropriate temperament and attitude for the job. To facilitate this, the recruitment process is comprehensive, encompassing rigorous background checks, psychological evaluations, and assessments of physical fitness to ensure candidates meet the necessary standards. Furthermore, to expedite the hiring process, the DCR has also introduced a system of 89-day temporary hires. This arrangement allows new recruits to experience the demands of the job firsthand before committing to permanent positions.
Training for new recruits has also received a boost, as the DCR has expanded its recruit training classes from two to six sessions annually, indicating a strategic effort to enhance its workforce. In a related move, the starting salary for ACOs has been increased to around $64,000 per year, a rise from the previous $61,200, effective July 1, 2024. This salary adjustment is part of a multifaceted effort to attract and retain qualified candidates amid the ongoing staffing crisis.
In its latest recruitment initiatives, the DCR will actively involve off-duty ACOs to conduct on-the-spot interviews during the upcoming Hawaii Career Expo, scheduled for October 30, 2024, at the Neal Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. This direct engagement strategy is anticipated to streamline the recruitment process and connect potential candidates with current employees who can provide insight into the role and the department’s culture.
Aside from focusing on ACOs, the DCR is also launching the “Champions of Change” campaign, aimed at recruiting for various essential positions necessary to support its mission. This includes roles not limited to education, healthcare, food service, and human resources, all integral to ensuring that inmates receive the structured support they require for successful reintegration into society. The DCR will utilize recruitment videos showcasing current employees to distribute across its website and social media platforms, increasing visibility for these roles and attracting a wider pool of candidates.
As part of the DCR’s holistic approach to rehabilitation and staffing, Director Johnson reflects on the agency’s recent rebranding, transitioning from the Department of Public Safety to emphasize its commitment to rehabilitative practices. This change is intended to reinforce the idea that the DCR is dedicated not just to corrections and law enforcement but also to the broader mission of supporting offenders in their journey back to community life. By bolstering its recruitment and highlighting the vital roles within its operations, the DCR aims to overcome staffing challenges while promoting a rehabilitation-centric framework in its ongoing efforts.