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Detention Aide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MEDICATION AIDE

Olmito, TX ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Delivers of medications to patients at designated sites (Detention I, Detention II, Old County Jail ... Texas medication aide certification required. Must have a valid Texas Driver's License.ADA ...

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Detention Aide information

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How much do detention aide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for detention aide in the United States is $16.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a detention aide?

Detention Aides are professionals who assist in the supervision and care of individuals held in detention facilities, such as jails or juvenile centers. Their responsibilities typically include monitoring detainees, maintaining order, conducting security checks, and assisting with daily activities. They work under the supervision of correctional officers and help ensure the safety and security of both detainees and staff. Detention Aides may also document incidents and provide support during intake and release processes.

What are some common challenges faced by detention aides, and how can they be managed effectively?

Detention Aides often encounter challenges such as managing difficult or unpredictable behavior from detainees, maintaining safety and security protocols, and handling stressful situations calmly. Effective communication skills, a strong sense of professionalism, and thorough knowledge of facility procedures are crucial for navigating these challenges. Regular training, teamwork, and support from supervisors also play a key role in helping Detention Aides manage their responsibilities and maintain a safe environment for both staff and detainees.

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

To thrive as a Detention Aide, you need a high school diploma or GED, basic knowledge of correctional procedures, and the ability to maintain security and safety in a detention facility. Familiarity with security monitoring systems, incident reporting software, and radio communication devices is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help build rapport with detainees and work effectively with other staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining order, ensuring safety, and promoting a secure environment within the detention facility.

What is the difference between Detention Aide vs Correctional Officer?

AspectDetention AideCorrectional Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, background checkHigh school diploma or GED, training academy certification
Work EnvironmentJails, detention centers, assisting staffJails, prisons, overseeing inmate security
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, detention facilitiesLaw enforcement agencies, correctional institutions
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in detentionMore advanced, supervisory roles

In summary, Detention Aides typically assist detention staff with basic duties and require minimal certifications, working in detention centers. Correctional Officers have more responsibilities, including inmate supervision and security, often requiring specialized training. Both roles are essential in detention facilities but differ in scope and qualifications.

What do you need to work at a juvenile detention center?

To work as a detention aide at a juvenile detention center, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, background checks, and sometimes specialized training or certifications in juvenile justice or security. Good communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and a clean criminal record are also important requirements.

What cities are hiring for Detention Aide jobs?

Cities with the most Detention Aide 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 Aide jobs?

States with the most job openings for Detention Aide jobs include:

Infographic showing various Detention Aide job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,585 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

MEDICATION AIDE

Cameron County

Olmito, TX โ€ข On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

MEDICATION AIDEPAY PLAN: 110 - $ 34,175.00 minimum salaryPurpose of ClassificationPerforms professional work in medication distribution of assigned detention center. Duties include distributing medications and assisting with patient care. Positions in this class perform routine patient care and identify needed corrective actions to resolve discrepancies; answer questions; and maintain documents and records.Essential FunctionsThe following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties 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.Distributes medications to assigned patients on a set schedule; observes individual patients ingesting their medicines; reads PPD's of patients in a timely fashion for inmates.Delivers of medications to patients at designated sites (Detention I, Detention II, Old County Jail, and Carrizales-Rucker); receives written/verbal orders from Charge Nurse, notes special reactions to watch for.Verifies all medications are in transport container; transports patient medication to appropriate facility at appropriate time; keeps inventory of pharmacy including OTC's and notify charging are supplies became depleted.Documents time, place, any observation, reaction or complaints; documents patient refusal to take medicines; watches for contraindications or drug reaction if so, begin emergency precaution/process and contract nurses on call.Notifies charge nurse when supplies are near expiration date and of potential problems; keeps running order of supplies needed and submits to charge nurse on timely basis; assists charge nurse in monthly inventory of prescription drug.Charts patients name, number, date, results of PPD according to established policy land procedure; completes audit forms according to directions.Establishes and maintains both automated and manual records and files; and performs record retention tasks as dictated by County policy.Additional FunctionsPerforms other related duties as required.Minimum QualificationsHigh School Diploma or GED; supplemented by a preferred one (1) year of experience performing medication administration and/or patient care work in a clinical setting; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Texas medication aide certification required. Must have a valid Texas Driver's License.ADA CompliancePhysical Ability: Tasks require the ability to exert medium physical effort in medium work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of medium weight (20-50 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motion at a keyboard or work station.Sensory Requirements: Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds and visual cues or signals. Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.Environmental Factors: Essential functions are regularly performed with exposure to adverse environmental conditions. Exposure to damp/wet surfaces, duty conditions, fumes and odors, and infectious diseases.This position is subject to a six (6) month probationary period prior to Civil Service eligibility.BENEFITS:Cameron County Offers Excellent Fringe Benefits, Including: Health and Life Insurance Protection, Sick and Annual Leave, Retirement System and Paid Holidays. Cameron County has a mandatory direct deposit payroll program.AA/EEO/MFD EMPLOYER