The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) in Honolulu is actively working to address a significant shortage of staff. The department, which oversees eight correctional facilities across the state, has been facing challenges due to numerous job vacancies. In response, the DCR launched the "Unlocking Potential" recruitment campaign over the summer to fill vacant adult corrections officer (ACO) positions.
At the beginning of 2024, there were over 425 vacant ACO positions out of 1,535 authorized roles in Hawai‘i's correctional facilities. From January 1 to October 15, 2024, the campaign attracted more than 755 eligible applicants and filled nearly 190 ACO positions, including temporary hires. This was an improvement compared to last year when around 570 applicants resulted in approximately 100 filled positions.
As of mid-October this year, about 370 corrections officer positions remain unfilled. DCR Director Tommy Johnson emphasized the importance of hiring individuals with suitable temperament and attitude through rigorous screening processes. "We seek to fill our positions with individuals with the right temperament and attitude," he said.
The department has also implemented measures such as using temporary hires for faster onboarding and doubling recruit training classes from two or three to six annually. Additionally, starting pay for ACOs increased from $61,200 to approximately $64,000 per year as of July 1, 2024.
To further enhance recruitment efforts, off-duty officers conducted interviews at events like the Hawaiʻi Career Expo. Upcoming participation includes an event at Neal Blaisdell Exhibition Hall on October 30.
Beyond filling ACO roles, DCR is expanding its recruitment focus under a new "Champions of Change" campaign aimed at various departmental roles crucial for inmate rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. Positions in education, healthcare services such as nursing and mental health care, food service, human resources, among others are being promoted.
Johnson stated that these roles are vital for supporting inmates' reintegration into society: “These positions are just as important to help ensure our inmates receive the support services they need.” He added that candidates should be committed to helping others reach their potential: “Candidates for these positions must have a deep commitment... They must be champions of change.”
The department’s rebranding from Public Safety (PSD) underscores its rehabilitative mission: “One of the reasons we changed our name... was to emphasize our role in supporting those in our custody,” Johnson explained.