Introduction. In the context of growing demands for professional competence, stress resistance, and adaptability of personnel, the problem of conscious and purposeful professional career building becomes particularly relevant. The aim of the research was to identify the dominant types of career orientations among penal system employees depending on their age, as well as to determine the factors influencing the choice of career strategy. Empirical analysis. As part of the empirical stage of the work, a psychodiagnostic survey of 100 employees from various departments was conducted using E. Schein’s Career Anchors questionnaire (adapted by L. G. Pochebut and V. A. Chiker). The results showed that the main guidelines in the professional activities of employees are the desire for stability, dedication to official duty, as well as a balance between personal life and work. Conclusion. The article emphasizes the importance of pedagogical support for career development in the penal system, offers recommendations for optimizing personnel policy, building a system of career counseling, mentoring, and motivational support for personnel. The data obtained can be used in the practice of personnel services, in the system of advanced training and professional development of penal system employees.