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Detention Center Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Greenwood County

Detention Center Officer - I

Greenwood, SC · On-site

$38K - $57K/yr

Join the Team at Greenwood County Detention Center Are you someone who genuinely cares about others ... As a Detention Officer, your primary responsibility is to maintain the safety and security of both ...

Jackson Mississippi

DETENTION OFFICER

Jackson, MS

$17.28/hr

Process arrested and released persons at jail or Detention Center, complete appropriate forms and ... DETENTION OFFICER Posting Start : 06/18/2026 Posting End : 12/31/9999 Details : City Website ...

Jackson Mississippi

DETENTION OFFICER

Jackson, MS

$17.28/hr

Process arrested and released persons at jail or Detention Center, complete appropriate forms and ... DETENTION OFFICER Posting Start : 06/18/2026 Posting End : 12/31/9999 Details : City Website ...

Craven County

Detention Officer I/II/III

New Bern, NC

$47K/yr

Work is performed under the general supervision of a Detention Center Supervisor and is evaluated through observation, review of records and on-site inspections. Detention Officer II: Performs lead ...

Craven County, NC

Detention Officer I/II/III

New Bern, NC · On-site

$47K/yr

Detention Center Opening Date: 08/19/2026 Closing Date: Continuous FLSA: Non-Exempt Primary Purpose Craven County is recruiting Detentions Officers. Selected candidates may be classified as Detention ...

City of Carrollton, TX

Sr Detention Officer

Carrollton, TX · On-site

$38K - $53K/yr

Detention Supervisor (while performing normal detention duties) Detention Center Manager (while performing Senior Detention Officer duties) SUMMARY: Responsible for providing care and custody of ...

coctx

Sr Detention Officer

Carrollton, TX · On-site

$38K - $53K/yr

Detention Supervisor (while performing normal detention duties) Detention Center Manager (while performing Senior Detention Officer duties) SUMMARY: Responsible for providing care and custody of ...

Grant County, NM

Detention Officer

Silver City, NM · On-site

$36K - $49K/yr

Detention Center Opening Date: 03/16/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Job Summary Under the direction of the Detention Center Administration, the Detention Officer is expected to ensure the health ...

Robeson County

Detention Officer

Lumberton, NC · On-site

$49K/yr

The Robeson County Sheriff's Office is seeking individuals interested in serving as Detention Officers within the Robeson County Sheriff's Office Detention Center. In this position, we could ...

Lubbock County, TX

Detention Officer

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$56K/yr

Sheriff - Detention Center Opening Date: 09/01/2026 Closing Date: 9/30/2026 11:59 PM Central ... Officers will obtain a basic understanding of standards established by the Texas Minimum Jail ...

Grant, County of (NM)

Detention Officer

Silver City, NM · On-site

$36K - $49K/yr

Job Summary Under the direction of the Detention Center Administration, the Detention Officer is expected to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the detainees and the continuous safety and ...

Johnston County, NC

Detention Officer

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$55K - $93K/yr

Description The Detention Center of Johnston County in Smithfield, NC is currently accepting online applications for Detention Officers. This position will be required to work nights and weekends.

Alamance County, NC

Detention Officer

Graham, NC · On-site

$54K/yr

Responsibilities • Accept custody of offenders from the arresting officers and booking offenders into the detention center by completing required forms and utilizing the jail management system. • ...

Wilson County Government

Detention Officer I

Wilson, NC

$47K - $79K/yr

DETENTION OFFICER I DETENTION CENTER FLSA: Non-exempt **APPLICATION PROCESS: TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION: 1. DOWNLOAD AND COMPLETE WCSO APPLICATION, F-3, AND QUESTIONNAIRE DOCUMENTS: WCSO Application ...

Harnett County, NC

Detention Officer

Lillington, NC · On-site

$48K/yr

Detention Center Opening Date: 08/06/2026 Closing Date: Continuous POSITION SUMMARY POSITION ... Detention Officer: $48,078.00 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION:

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Detention Center Officer information

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How much do detention center officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for detention center officer 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 center officer?

Detention Center Officers, also known as correctional officers or detention officers, are responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in a detention facility. Their duties include maintaining order, ensuring the safety and security of inmates and staff, conducting inspections, and enforcing rules and regulations within the facility. They also assist in the rehabilitation of inmates by monitoring behavior and sometimes facilitating access to programs. Detention Center Officers play a crucial role in maintaining a safe and secure environment within correctional institutions.

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

To thrive as a Detention Center Officer, you need a strong understanding of security procedures, crisis intervention, and relevant legal protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and specialized training or certification in corrections. Familiarity with surveillance systems, incident reporting software, and physical restraint techniques is typically required. Excellent communication, conflict resolution, and emotional resilience are vital soft skills for managing interactions with detainees and maintaining order. These skills ensure the safety, security, and effective operation of detention facilities while upholding the rights and welfare of those in custody.

What are some common challenges detention center officers face when working with detainees, and how can these be managed?

Detention Center Officers often encounter challenges such as managing confrontational situations, maintaining safety in a high-stress environment, and balancing enforcement with empathy. Officers need strong communication skills and situational awareness to de-escalate conflicts and promote a secure atmosphere. Regular training, teamwork, and support from supervisors help officers navigate these challenges while ensuring the well-being of both staff and detainees.

What is the difference between Detention Center Officer vs Correctional Officer?

AspectDetention Center OfficerCorrectional Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, background checkHigh school diploma or GED, background check
Work EnvironmentJails, detention centers, holding facilitiesPrisons, correctional facilities, detention centers
Employer & IndustryLocal jails, detention centers, law enforcement agenciesState and federal prisons, correctional institutions
Job FocusSupervising detainees, maintaining security, monitoring inmatesSupervising inmates, enforcing rules, ensuring safety in correctional facilities

Both roles involve supervising detainees or inmates and maintaining security within detention or correctional facilities. While their work environments and employer types are similar, correctional officers typically work in prisons, whereas detention center officers work in jails or holding facilities. The credentials and daily responsibilities are also closely aligned, making these roles often confused but distinct in their specific settings.

How hard is it to become a detention center officer?

Becoming a detention center officer typically requires meeting minimum age and education requirements, passing background checks, and completing training programs that cover security procedures and legal protocols. Physical fitness and good communication skills are also important, and some positions may require certification or prior law enforcement experience. The process can vary depending on the jurisdiction and agency standards.

Is being a detention center officer worth it?

Being a detention center officer can be a stable career with opportunities for advancement and benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. The job involves supervising inmates, maintaining security, and following strict protocols, often requiring certification and physical fitness. Job satisfaction varies based on individual interests in law enforcement and correctional work, and it can be physically and emotionally demanding.

What education do you need to be a detention center officer?

To become a detention center officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require additional training or certification in areas such as security, first aid, or crisis intervention, depending on the facility's requirements.

What cities are hiring for Detention Center Officer jobs?

Cities with the most Detention Center Officer job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Detention Center Officer jobs?

The top employers for Detention Center Officer jobs are:

What states have the most Detention Center Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Detention Center Officer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Detention Center Officer jobs?

For Detention Center Officer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Detention Center Officer jobs near you

Detention Center Officer - I

Greenwood, SC • On-site

Greenwood County
See more jobs at Greenwood Countyexternal

$38K - $57K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Join the Team at Greenwood County Detention Center

Are you someone who genuinely cares about others, has a strong work ethic, thick skin, and the drive to succeed? Whether you're looking to build a long-term career with growth opportunities, benefits, and a pension — or take your first step into the law enforcement field — this may be the opportunity for you.

Position Overview:

As a Detention Officer, your primary responsibility is to maintain the safety and security of both staff and inmates. You’ll play a critical role in enforcing rules and policies set by the administration to ensure order within the facility.

This position operates under close to general supervision, following established procedures and guidelines.

What We’re Looking For:

  • Individuals with strong integrity and a sense of responsibility
  • Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations
  • Strong communication and observation skills
  • A desire to contribute to a team that makes a difference in the community

Why Greenwood County Detention Center?

  • Competitive pay and benefits
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Retirement and pension plans
  • On-the-job training and support

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

  • Requires High School graduation or GED equivalent or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
  • Must maintain required level of proficiency in the use of Oleoresin Capsicum spray, taser, and defensive tactics.
  • Must possess a valid state driver's license.
  • Must be 18 years or older.

For a full job description see our website.

Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance

Greenwood County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires Greenwood County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

Job Type: Full-time
Salary Range: $38,519 to $57,779

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 12 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Holidays
  • Night shift
  • Weekends as needed

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

  • Greenwood, SC 29646 (Preferred)

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