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County Jail Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Camden County, GA

Jailor

Woodbine, GA · On-site

$44K/yr

Processes and books inmates in the county jail. * Conducts security rounds and performs inspections of inmates and facilities; notifies supervisor of maintenance needs or of inmate issues; conducts ...

Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office

Jailer

Kennesaw, GA · On-site

$52K - $81K/yr

The Gwinnett County Jail is a direct supervision pretrial facility. This class is responsible for being trained within the Jail Operations Division. Incumbents must obtain a state certificate from ...

Sheriff's Office

Jail Officer

Hinesville, GA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Liberty County Sheriff's Office is accepting applications for a Jail Officer. This position provides security for inmates in the Liberty County Jail. MAJOR DUTIES * Enforces jail ...

St. Clair County (IL)

IL

$49K - $77K/yr

Clair County Jail, ensuring inmate welfare, maintenance of jail security, and adherence to both departmental policy and applicable state statute; performs related booking, admitting, and release ...

Gwinnett County, GA

Jailer

Lawrenceville, GA · On-site

$55K/yr

The Gwinnett County Jail is a direct supervision pretrial facility. This class is responsible for being trained within the Jail Operations Division. Incumbents must obtain a state certificate from ...

Manitowoc County

Jail Nurse.

Manitowoc, WI

Jail Nurse - Make a Meaningful Impact in Your Community The Manitowoc County Sheriff's Department is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Jail Nurse to provide essential healthcare services within ...

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How much do county jail jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for county jail in the United States is $24.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get a job if you go to jail?

Working in a county jail or correctional facility can be challenging to secure due to background checks and the need for security clearances. Employers often consider criminal history, but some positions may be available if the individual meets specific requirements or has completed rehabilitation programs.

Will county jail salary?

County jail jobs, such as correctional officers, typically offer salaries that vary by location and experience but generally range from around $30,000 to $60,000 annually. Salaries may increase with overtime, seniority, and additional certifications, and benefits often include health insurance and retirement plans.

What is the difference between County Jail vs Correctional Officer?

AspectCounty JailCorrectional Officer
Primary RoleDetaining inmates awaiting trial or sentencingSupervising inmates in correctional facilities
Work EnvironmentCounty jails, short-term detention centersPrisons, detention centers, correctional facilities
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, background checkHigh school diploma or GED, training certification
Employer & IndustryCounty government, criminal justiceCorrectional institutions, law enforcement agencies

While both roles involve working within detention facilities, a County Jail primarily refers to the facility itself, whereas a Correctional Officer is the professional responsible for supervising inmates within such facilities. Correctional Officers work in various detention settings, including county jails, and require specific training and certifications to perform their duties effectively.

What are some common challenges faced by correctional officers working in a county jail?

Correctional officers in county jails often encounter challenges such as managing inmate behavior, maintaining safety and security, and dealing with high-stress situations. They may work with diverse populations and must be prepared to address conflicts or emergencies quickly and effectively. Adapting to shift work, collaborating with law enforcement and healthcare professionals, and keeping up with regular training are also important aspects of the role. Successful officers develop strong communication and problem-solving skills to navigate these daily challenges.

Can you work at a jail without a degree?

Working as a detention officer or correctional officer at a jail typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; a college degree is not usually mandatory. However, some positions or advanced roles may prefer or require post-secondary education or specialized training. Candidates must also pass background checks, physical assessments, and training programs before employment.

What are county jails?

County jails are local detention facilities operated by county governments to house individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial, sentencing, or transfer to other facilities. They also hold individuals serving short-term sentences, typically less than one year, for minor offenses. County jails are different from state or federal prisons, which house individuals convicted of more serious crimes and serving longer sentences. The primary purpose of a county jail is to provide secure custody and basic care for inmates during their stay.

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

To thrive as a County Jail Correctional Officer, you need knowledge of criminal justice procedures, security protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent, sometimes supplemented by law enforcement academy training. Familiarity with surveillance systems, inmate management software, and emergency response tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, stress management, and the ability to remain calm and assertive in challenging situations are vital soft skills. These abilities are essential for maintaining safety, order, and effective communication within the jail environment.
What cities are hiring for County Jail jobs? Cities with the most County Jail job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of County Jail jobs? The most popular types of County Jail jobs are:
What states have the most County Jail jobs? States with the most job openings for County Jail jobs include:
County Jail jobs near you
Infographic showing various County Jail job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% As Needed, 22% Full Time, 11% Temporary, and 45% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,907 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Jailor

Camden County, GA

Woodbine, GA • On-site

$44K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Camden County Sheriff's Office
Jailor
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Annual Pay: $44,055.07
Point of Contact: Amanda Watson (912) 510-5100
Apply Online at Camden County Sheriff's Office Career Page
JOB SUMMARY
This position is responsible for supervising inmates at the county jail.
MAJOR DUTIES
  • Processes and books inmates in the county jail.

  • Conducts security rounds and performs inspections of inmates and facilities; notifies supervisor of maintenance needs or of inmate issues; conducts perimeter checks.

  • Operates door lock controls to control inmate and staff movement.

  • Performs inmate head counts; maintains inmate count records.

  • Enforces facility rules and regulations; documents infractions and enforces disciplinary measures.

  • Searches inmates and cells for contraband.

  • Issues inmate personal items, meals, uniforms, and other items.

  • Collects and distributes inmate mail.

  • Responds to and renders aid during emergency situations.

  • Supervises inmate work details throughout the safety complex.

  • Performs fingerprinting for the general public.

  • Conducts security checks of the safety complex and the government complex.

  • Escorts inmates to scheduled activities; coordinates scheduled visits with inmates.

  • Investigates and resolves inmate grievances.

  • Processes inmate releases.

  • Transports inmates to and from the jail as appropriate.

  • Prepares incident and accident reports.

The above cited duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to the job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that an incumbent may be expected or asked to perform. The omission of specific statements of duties or responsibilities does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.
KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION
  • Knowledge of jail administration principles.

  • Knowledge of inmate security principles.

  • Knowledge of county and departmental policies and procedures and relevant federal and state laws.

  • Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.

  • Skill in prioritizing and organizing work.

  • Skill in ensuring the safety and security of inmates in the county jail.

  • Skill in oral and written communication.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
The Sergeant - Jail assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.
GUIDELINES
Guidelines include county, department, and jail policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application.
COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK
  • The work consists of related duties in the provision of jail security. Dealing with potentially violent inmates contributes to the complexity of the position.

  • The purpose of this position is to ensure the safety and security of jail inmates, staff, and visitors. Successful performance contributes to the safety and security of the county jail.

CONTACTS
  • Contacts are typically with co-workers, other county employees, inmates, clergy, law enforcement personnel, attorneys, family members, and the general public.

  • Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, motivate persons, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, bending, crouching, or stooping. The employee occasionally lifts light and heavy objects, distinguishes between shades of color, and utilizes the sense of smell.

  • The work is typically performed in a jail. The employee may be exposed to contagious or infectious diseases, or irritating chemicals. Work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY
None.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level commonly associated with the completion of high school or equivalent.

  • Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years.

  • Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State of Georgia for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.

  • Possession of or ability to readily obtain certification by the Georgia Department of Corrections.

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