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Correctional Sergeant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of Wisconsin

Correctional Sergeant

Green Bay, WI · On-site +1

$37.08/hr

The Correctional Sergeant communicates institution information and concerns, maintains record keeping systems, and maintains professional interactions with staff, residents and the public.

Ironwood State Prison

Correctional Sergeant

Blythe, CA · On-site

$8.1K - $10K/mo

CORRECTIONAL SERGEANT $8,184.00 - $10,292.00 A $8,696.00 - $10,935.00 J New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when ...

State of Indiana

Correctional Sergeant

Pendleton, IN · On-site

$47K/yr

As a Correctional Sergeant, you will be responsible for the management, supervision, and safety of the facility, incarcerated individuals, coworkers and the general public. In addition, you must ...

State of Indiana

Correctional Sergeant

Pendleton, IN · On-site

$47K/yr

As a Correctional Sergeant, you will be responsible for the management, supervision, and safety of the facility, incarcerated individuals, coworkers and the general public. In addition, you must ...

State of Indiana

Correctional Sergeant

Greencastle, IN · On-site

$47K/yr

As a Correctional Sergeant you will be responsible for the management, supervision, and safety of the facility, incarcerated individuals, coworkers and the general public. In addition, you must ...

State of Indiana

Correctional Sergeant

South Bend, IN

$47K/yr

As a Correctional Sergeant, you will be responsible for the management, supervision, and safety of the facility, incarcerated individuals, coworkers and the general public. In addition, you must ...

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Correctional Sergeant information

See salary details

$36.5K

$57.5K

$78K

How much do correctional sergeant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for correctional sergeant in the United States is $57,518.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in corrections?

The highest paying jobs in corrections are typically senior leadership roles such as Director of Corrections or Warden, followed by specialized positions like Correctional Healthcare Directors or Security Directors. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and management skills, and they oversee large facilities or departments with higher salaries. Compensation varies by jurisdiction and facility size but generally exceeds that of correctional sergeants and line officers.

What does a correctional sergeant do?

A correctional sergeant supervises correctional officers and inmates within a jail or prison facility, ensuring safety, security, and adherence to policies. They oversee daily operations, enforce rules, handle conflicts, and may be involved in reporting and administrative tasks. Strong leadership, communication skills, and knowledge of security procedures are essential for this role.

What are some typical challenges faced by Correctional Sergeants, and how can they effectively manage them?

Correctional Sergeants often encounter challenges such as maintaining order among inmates, responding to security incidents, and managing staff performance. They must balance enforcing rules with fair treatment and effective communication, which can be demanding in a high-stress environment. Building strong leadership skills, fostering teamwork, and staying up-to-date with facility policies are key strategies for managing these challenges effectively. Additionally, Correctional Sergeants collaborate closely with officers, administrative staff, and sometimes external agencies to ensure the safety and security of the facility.

Can a correctional officer be a sergeant?

A correctional officer can be promoted to a correctional sergeant, which is a supervisory role requiring experience, leadership skills, and often additional training or certification. Advancement typically involves passing promotional exams and demonstrating competence in security procedures and inmate management.

What is the difference between Correctional Sergeant vs Correctional Officer?

AspectCorrectional SergeantCorrectional Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, correctional training, supervisory skillsHigh school diploma or GED, basic correctional training
Work EnvironmentSupervises inmates and staff within correctional facilitiesMonitors inmates, enforces rules, and maintains security
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in prisons, jails, detention centersUsed in prisons, jails, detention centers

The main difference between a Correctional Sergeant and a Correctional Officer lies in their responsibilities. Correctional Sergeants typically oversee correctional officers, manage inmate activities, and enforce facility policies, requiring supervisory skills. Correctional Officers focus on monitoring inmates, maintaining security, and enforcing rules. Both roles are essential in correctional facilities, but Sergeants hold leadership responsibilities and often have additional training or certifications.

How much do correctional sergeants make?

Correctional sergeants typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on location, experience, and the size of the facility. They often oversee correctional officers and enforce facility rules, requiring leadership skills and knowledge of security procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Correctional Sergeant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Correctional Sergeant, you need a solid understanding of correctional procedures, supervisory experience, and typically a background in criminal justice or corrections. Familiarity with security management systems, incident reporting software, and certification in defensive tactics or crisis intervention is often required. Strong leadership, conflict resolution, and communication skills are essential for managing staff and maintaining order. These skills ensure the safety, security, and effective operation of correctional facilities.

What are Correctional Sergeants?

Correctional Sergeants are supervisory officers who oversee the activities and safety of correctional officers and inmates within a prison or jail facility. They are responsible for enforcing rules, maintaining order, and ensuring that staff follow established procedures. Correctional Sergeants also manage shift operations, respond to emergencies, and provide training and guidance to subordinate staff. Their leadership is essential for maintaining security and the smooth operation of correctional institutions.
More about Correctional Sergeant jobs
What cities are hiring for Correctional Sergeant jobs? Cities with the most Correctional Sergeant job openings:
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What states have the most Correctional Sergeant jobs? States with the most job openings for Correctional Sergeant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Correctional Sergeant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Correctional Sergeant jobs are:
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Correctional Sergeant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Correctional Sergeant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,518 per year, or $27.7 per hour.
Correctional Sergeant

Correctional Sergeant

Kentucky Board of Nursing

La Grange, KY • On-site

$47K - $56K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Kentucky Department Of Corrections rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 41 rated prisons

Job description

Correctional Sergeant

54527

30040519

What Kentucky Department Of Corrections employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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