Corrections Plant Mechanic - SCI Chester

Posting number: N-2026-60810

Department: Department of Corrections

Division: CR CHS Mntnc

Job classification: Corrections Plant Mechanic

Posting type: NCS External

Categories: Corrections, Trades

The State Correctional Institution (SCI) Chester is seeking an energetic, enthusiastic, self-motivated person with the required experience to work as Corrections Plant Mechanic. In this role, you will be a key part of keeping the facility running smoothly. This position offers the chance to work with important systems that support daily operations. It is a great opportunity to use technical skills in a stable, mission-driven workplace. Join a team that values safety, precision, and dependable work.

Begin an exciting and rewarding career as a Corrections Plant Mechanic. The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections is seeking a motivated individual to join our maintenance team at the State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Forest.

This role focuses on maintaining essential utility systems that support the entire facility. It involves inspection, testing, and upkeep of key mechanical equipment. As a Corrections Plant Mechanic, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Maintenance:Perform repairs and preventative tasks on boilers, compressors, and water systems to keep operations steady
• Water Testing:Test multiple water systems and maintain accurate logs, inventories, and chemical supplies
• System Operation:Carry out seasonal start-up and shut-down procedures for cooling towers and chilled water systems
• Generator Care:Check fluids, test batteries, and inspect fuel tanks to ensure standby generators remain ready for use
• Inmate Supervision:Oversee inmate workers, maintain safety procedures, and ensure proper tool and supply control
• Housekeeping Duties:Maintain clean and orderly plant spaces to support safe operations

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

• One year of experience in performing skilled mechanical repair work involving heavy machines; and such training as may have been gained through graduation from high school; or
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training that affords the applicant with the required knowledges, skills, and abilities.

• Successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, PA is required.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

• You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e.,.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date.Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
• All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant’s own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.

• Full-time employment, 40 hours per week
• Work hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with 30-minute lunch.
• Telework:You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $49,010.00 (before taxes).
• This position is eligible for full retirement benefits at age 50 or 55.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to and click on Veterans.

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.