ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Detention Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Laurens County Detention Center

Be Seen First

Detention Deputy

Greenwood, SC · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

Detention Deputy Location: Laurens County Detention Center - Laurens, SC Department: Laurens County Sheriff's Office / Detention Division Employment Type: Full-Time Why Laurens County? At the Laurens ...

Laurens County Detention Center

Be Seen First

Detention Deputy

Laurens, SC · On-site

$41K - $50K/yr

Detention Deputy Location: Laurens County Detention Center - Laurens, SC Department: Laurens County Sheriff's Office / Detention Division Employment Type: Full-Time Why Laurens County? At the Laurens ...

Laurens County Detention Center

Be Seen First

Detention Deputy

Abbeville, SC · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

Detention Deputy Location: Laurens County Detention Center - Laurens, SC Department: Laurens County Sheriff's Office / Detention Division Employment Type: Full-Time Why Laurens County? At the Laurens ...

New

City of Frisco

Detention Supervisor

Frisco, TX

$64K - $93K/yr

The Detention Supervisor will also perform the duties of Detention Officer as needed. The intent of this position description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and ...

Harris County

Detention Officer

Houston, TX

$38K - $52K/yr

Detention Officer The Harris County Sheriff's Office is hiring Detention Officers within the Criminal Justice Command. As a Detention Officer, you are an important team member of the Harris County ...

New

Harris County

Detention Officer

Houston, TX

$38K - $52K/yr

Detention Officer The Harris County Sheriff's Office is hiring Detention Officers within the Criminal Justice Command. As a Detention Officer, you are an important team member of the Harris County ...

New

Jackson Mississippi

DETENTION OFFICER

Jackson, MS

$17.28/hr

DETENTION OFFICER Detention Officer Job Brief: Description: Duties: Process arrested and released persons at jail or Detention Center, complete appropriate forms and related paperwork; issue clothing ...

Jackson Mississippi

DETENTION OFFICER

Jackson, MS · On-site

$17.28/hr

DETENTION OFFICER Detention Officer Job Brief: Description: Duties: Process arrested and released persons at jail or Detention Center, complete appropriate forms and related paperwork; issue clothing ...

Robeson County

Detention Officer

Lumberton, NC · On-site

$49K/yr

Detention Officers typically work only 14 days a month on 12 hour shifts. Multiple overtime opportunities are also available daily within the detention center. If you meet the following ...

Harris County

Detention Officer

Houston, TX · On-site

$46K/yr

Detention Lieutenant - responsible for supervising all personnel assigned to their shift. Detention Captain - responsible for supervising all personnel assigned to their facility. The Detention ...

Yellowstone County

$30/hr

Description Yellowstone County candidates for Detention Officer shall adhere to generally accepted business standards for appearance with respect to body art and physical alterations. Face, neck, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDetention Jobs

Detention information

See salary details

$25.5K

$50.2K

$79.5K

How much do detention jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for detention in the United States is $50,155.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $55,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a detention officer?

Detention officers are professionals responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or serving a short sentence in a detention facility or jail. Their duties include maintaining order and security, supervising inmates, conducting inspections, and ensuring that inmates' rights and needs are met according to the law. Detention officers also assist with booking procedures, transportation of inmates, and responding to emergencies within the facility. They play a crucial role in upholding safety and order within correctional environments.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a detention officer?

To thrive as a Detention Officer, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, knowledge of correctional procedures, and often completion of specialized training or certification. Familiarity with security systems, surveillance equipment, and incident reporting software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, stress management, and sound judgment are crucial for maintaining safety and order. These skills and qualities are important to ensure the safety of staff and inmates, enforce regulations, and respond effectively to emergencies in a correctional facility.

What challenges do detention officers face and how can they be managed?

Detention officers often encounter challenges such as managing inmate behavior, maintaining safety and security, and handling high-stress situations. Effective communication, strong observational skills, and adherence to established protocols are essential for addressing these challenges. Regular training, teamwork, and support from supervisors also help officers respond appropriately and maintain a safe environment for both staff and inmates.

What is the difference between Detention vs Correction Officer?

AspectDetentionCorrection Officer
CertificationsBasic security or detention certificationsSecurity, detention, or correctional certifications
Work EnvironmentJails, detention centers, holding facilitiesPrisons, correctional facilities, detention centers
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, detention centersPrison systems, correctional institutions
Job FocusSupervising detainees, maintaining securitySupervising inmates, enforcing rules, security

Detention officers primarily supervise detainees in holding facilities, focusing on security and safety. Correction officers work in prisons or correctional facilities, overseeing inmates and enforcing rules. While both roles involve security and supervision, detention officers typically handle short-term detainees, whereas correction officers manage long-term inmates in correctional settings.

Do you need a degree to be a detention officer?

A degree is not typically required to become a detention officer, but applicants usually need a high school diploma or equivalent. Additional training, background checks, and certifications in areas like first aid or CPR are often necessary for employment in detention facilities.

Is becoming a detention officer hard?

Becoming a detention officer involves completing required training, passing background checks, and often obtaining certifications such as CPR or first aid. The job can be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to handle stressful situations. Overall, it requires dedication and adherence to strict protocols but is achievable with proper preparation.

What cities are hiring for Detention jobs?

Cities with the most Detention job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Detention jobs?

The most popular types of Detention jobs are:

What states have the most Detention jobs?

States with the most job openings for Detention jobs include:

Detention jobs near you
Infographic showing various Detention job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 95% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,155 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Detention Officer

Caroline Detention Facility

Bowling Green, VA

$23.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Starting Pay: $23.75 per Hour

Caroline Detention Facility | Bowling Green, VA

Caroline Detention Facility (CDF) is a 336-bed facility that provides detention services for adult male and female detainees on behalf of the Department of Homeland Security. Working in partnership with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), our team is committed to maintaining a safe, secure, and professional environment while individuals complete the administrative immigration process.

Conveniently located just 7 miles northeast of Bowling Green, VA off Route 301, CDF is currently seeking dependable and professional individuals to join our team as Detention Officers.

Why Join Our Team?
  • Competitive starting pay of $23.75 per hour
  • Participation in the Virginia Retirement System
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Paid Life Insurance
  • Optional Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Free Uniforms
  • Free Meals While on Duty
  • Paid Training and Career Development Opportunities
Position Overview

Detention Officers play a vital role in maintaining the safety, security, and well-being of detainees, staff, and facility operations. Successful candidates demonstrate professionalism, integrity, sound judgment, and the ability to work effectively in a diverse environment.

Candidates with Corrections, Law Enforcement, Security, Military, or related experience are strongly encouraged to apply. Bilingual candidates are highly preferred.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • Valid Virginia Driver's License
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Strong attendance and reliability
  • Ability to work in a professional, diverse, and team-oriented environment
Employment Requirements

All candidates must successfully complete:

  • Federal Background Investigation
  • Drug Screening
  • E-Verify Employment Verification
  • Tuberculosis (TB) Test
  • Medical Physical Examination
  • Physical Agility Test
  • Verification of Social Security Card issued by the Social Security Administration
Apply Today

If you are looking for a rewarding career in public safety with competitive pay, outstanding benefits, and opportunities for growth, we encourage you to apply today and become part of the Caroline Detention Facility team.

$23.75 per hour | Full-Time | Immediate Openings Available

Apply