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Correctional Sergeant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Work is performed under the direct supervision of the Detention Center Sergeant on the assigned ... or corrections, or equivalent combination of training and experience. Other Information Must ...

Detention Officer

Louisburg, NC · On-site

$48K - $51K/yr

Work is performed under the direct supervision of the Detention Center Sergeant on the assigned ... or corrections, or equivalent combination of training and experience. Other Information Must ...

Correctional Sergeant information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$35.5K

$55.9K

$75.8K

How much do correctional sergeant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for correctional sergeant in Raleigh, NC is $55,912.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,100.00 and $58,300.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Correctional Sergeant jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Correctional Sergeant jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Correctional Sergeant job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,912 per year, or $26.9 per hour.
Detention Officer

$48K - $51K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

General Statement of Duties Employees in this class perform inmate intake, detention care, release, and limited transportation work in accordance with established policies and procedures. Work includes the observation and accompaniment of inmates internal to and external of the detention centers, insurance of proper care and completion of record-keeping requirements. Employees may be assigned to nay work area within the facility and are subject to rotation of work areas and shifts.

Patience and firmness are required in frequent contacts with violent, suicidal, and mentally unstable inmates. Work is performed under the direct supervision of the Detention Center Sergeant on the assigned shift and is evaluated through observation. Duties and Responsibilities/Knowledge, Skills, Abilities Receives inmates and conducts searches for contraband; completes required intake forms; and secures personal property.

Acts as a processing officer by maintaining inmate information, verifying the completion of necessary forms; assigning appropriate cell location; determining inmate classification; and maintaining inmate count and cell locations; transports inmates. Oversees the security and activities of inmates; supervises meals and cleaning of facilities; distributes personal property; monitors inmates' medical status and takes action when inmates are ill or injured. Provides non-confidential inmate information to the public, attorney, and bond personnel; maintains files on inmates; searches incoming property delivered to inmates; verifies visitor acceptance by inmate.

Releases inmates on bond due to court order or time served; ensures release papers are proper and complete; returns personal property to individual; completes forms providing required documentation of release. Supervises cleaning and maintenance of center facilities and fixtures. Conducts perimeter checks; monitors surveillance devices for inmate activity and incoming personnel.

Prepares inmates for transport as needed. Assigns tasks to inmate trustees (cleaning, trash removal, etc.); searches them prior to re-entering the dorm area. Enforces rules of conduct, security, and labor standards by verbal admonishments for minor deviations or by making verbal or written reports of significant violations or irregularities to supervisors

Checks on sanitary conditions, fire and safety hazards such as unsafe tools, electrical cords, lighting conditions, etc. Answers questions from inmates, staff, and the general public. Performs related duties as required.

Some knowledge of the security, rules, regulations and procedures of the institution. Some knowledge of the practices of modern penology as related to the supervision and care of persons under institutionalized restraint. Ability to enforce institutional rules firmly and fairly.

Ability to detect potential behavior problems of inmates. Ability to detect the early symptoms of common health problems. Ability to carry out oral and written directions accurately.

Ability to supervise the activities of large groups of inmates Ability to prepare records and reports. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates. Desirable Education and Experience High school diploma and minimal experience working in law enforcement or corrections, or equivalent combination of training and experience.

Other Information Must possess a valid North Carolina driver's license upon hire. Must complete Taser training, Pepper Spray training, Firearm training, ASP Baton training, obtain CPR certification and Detention Officer certification within one year of employment.