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Detention Deputy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Laurens County Detention Center

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Detention Deputy

Newberry, 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

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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

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Detention Deputy

Woodruff, 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

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Detention Deputy

Simpsonville, 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 ...

Albany County, Wyoming

Detention Deputy

Laramie, WY

Albany County is seeking to hire a Detention Deputy in the Sheriff's Office. This position is a full-time, benefited position that will perform routine duties in connection with the Albany County ...

Albany County Government

Detention Deputy

Laramie, WY · On-site

Salary: $53,000/annual Albany County is seeking to hire a Detention Deputy in the Sheriffs Office. This position is a full-time, benefited position that will perform routine duties in connection with ...

Rockdale County, Georgia

Detention Deputy

Conyers, GA · On-site

$22.77 - $29.61/hr

A detention deputy may hold the rank of Detention Deputy I, Detention Deputy II or Detention Deputy III, depending on qualifications. Work Environment: Work is performed in a variety a secured jail ...

Albany County Government

Detention Deputy

Laramie, WY · On-site

$53K/yr

Albany County is seeking to hire a Detention Deputy in the Sheriff's Office. This position is a full-time, benefited position that will perform routine duties in connection with the Albany County ...

Albany County Wyoming

Detention Deputy

Laramie, WY · On-site

$53K/yr

Albany County is seeking to hire a Detention Deputy in the Sheriff's Office. This position is a full-time, benefited position that will perform routine duties in connection with the Albany County ...

Teller County Government

Detention Deputy

Divide, CO

$33.25 - $34.69/hr

The Detention Deputy is responsible for the care and security of all prisoners and inmates lawfully in the custody of the Sheriff. Performs duties related to the daily operation of the detention ...

Teller County Government

Detention Deputy

Divide, CO

$33.25 - $34.69/hr

The Detention Deputy is responsible for the care and security of all prisoners and inmates lawfully in the custody of the Sheriff. Performs duties related to the daily operation of the detention ...

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Detention Deputy information

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$31.5K

$57.1K

$84.5K

How much do detention deputy jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for detention deputy in the United States is $57,103.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $65,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Detention Deputies?

Detention Deputies are law enforcement officers responsible for overseeing individuals who are awaiting trial or serving sentences in jails or detention facilities. Their duties include maintaining security, supervising inmate activities, conducting searches, and ensuring the safety of staff and inmates. Detention Deputies also manage inmate intake and release processes, enforce facility rules, and may assist in transporting inmates to court or other locations. They play a crucial role in maintaining order within correctional facilities and supporting rehabilitation efforts.

Do you need experience to be a detention officer?

While prior experience is not always required to become a detention deputy, having relevant skills such as communication, conflict resolution, and knowledge of law enforcement procedures can be beneficial. Many agencies provide on-the-job training and require candidates to meet minimum qualifications like a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification or training programs may also be necessary depending on the jurisdiction.

How hard is it to become a deputy sheriff?

Becoming a detention deputy typically requires meeting minimum age and education requirements, passing physical and background checks, and completing law enforcement training or academy. Candidates often need to develop skills in communication, observation, and conflict resolution, and may need to obtain relevant certifications or licenses. The process can be competitive and varies by jurisdiction but generally involves a structured application and training process.

What is the difference between Detention Deputy vs Correctional Officer?

AspectDetention DeputyCorrectional Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, basic law enforcement trainingHigh school diploma or GED, correctional training
Work EnvironmentJails, detention centers, law enforcement facilitiesPrisons, detention centers, correctional facilities
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, sheriff's officesPrison systems, correctional institutions
Job FocusSupervising detainees, maintaining security, enforcing lawsMonitoring inmates, ensuring safety, enforcing facility rules

Both Detention Deputies and Correctional Officers work in detention facilities and require similar credentials. However, Detention Deputies often have law enforcement responsibilities and may carry firearms, while Correctional Officers focus on inmate supervision and security within correctional institutions. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit in the criminal justice field.

What Is a Detention Deputy?

Detention deputies oversee a group of inmates that are in prison. Their job duties include ensuring the inmates remain in confinement, supervising the delivery of meals to the inmates, searching inmates for contraband, and monitoring the security of the inmates during daily activities. The qualifications to pursue a career as a detention deputy include a high school diploma or equivalent, some experience in law enforcement, and physical stamina.

What are some common challenges faced by Detention Deputies in their daily duties?

Detention Deputies often encounter challenging situations such as managing difficult inmate behavior, maintaining order during high-stress incidents, and ensuring the safety of both inmates and staff. The role requires strong communication skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure, as deputies must de-escalate conflicts and enforce facility rules consistently. Additionally, adapting to rotating shifts and maintaining physical and mental resilience are important aspects of the job.

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

To thrive as a Detention Deputy, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of law enforcement or corrections academy training, and knowledge of jail operations and inmate supervision. Familiarity with jail management software, security systems, and defensive tactics is typically required, along with relevant state certifications. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and stress management skills help you interact effectively with inmates and colleagues. These competencies are crucial to ensure safety, maintain order, and uphold legal and ethical standards within correctional facilities.

Is a detention deputy the same as a correctional officer?

A detention deputy is a type of correctional officer responsible for supervising inmates in detention facilities. While both roles involve overseeing incarcerated individuals, detention deputies often work in county jails and may have specific duties related to law enforcement and security protocols. Certification and training requirements are typically mandated by state or local agencies for both positions.

Is it worth being a detention officer?

A detention officer plays a critical role in maintaining security and order within detention facilities, often requiring physical fitness, communication skills, and adherence to protocols. The job offers steady employment, benefits, and opportunities for advancement, but it can also involve high-stress situations and exposure to challenging environments.
More about Detention Deputy jobs
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Detention Deputy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Detention Deputy job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,103 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Detention Deputy

Laurens County Detention Center

Newberry, SC • On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

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Job description

Join Our Team: 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 County Detention Center, we don’t just offer a job; we offer a career with a purpose. We are looking for disciplined, high-integrity individuals to join our team in maintaining a safe and secure environment for both staff and detainees. If you are looking for a role that rewards leadership, resilience, and professional growth, your journey starts here.

The Role

As a Detention Deputy, you are the backbone of our facility. You are responsible for the safety, security, and care of inmates while upholding the laws of South Carolina and the policies of Laurens County.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Maintain Security: Conduct routine patrols, headcounts, and searches to ensure the facility remains secure and contraband-free.
  • Supervise Operations: Oversee inmate movements, meal distributions, and visitation periods.
  • Enforce Policy: Apply facility rules fairly and consistently to maintain order and discipline.
  • Crisis Management: Respond effectively to emergency situations, including medical alerts or physical altercations.
  • Professional Documentation: Maintain accurate daily logs and incident reports with high attention to detail.

What We’re Looking For

We value character over a long resume. If you have the right mindset, we provide the training.

  • Integrity: You do the right thing, even when no one is watching.
  • Communication: The ability to de-escalate situations using verbal skills is your greatest tool.
  • Resilience: You can stay calm and focused under pressure.
  • Requirements:
    • Must be at least 18 years of age.
    • High School Diploma or GED.
    • Valid Driver’s License.
    • Must pass a background check, drug screen, and driving record.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive Salary: based on experience with overtime opportunities, cost of living increases and longevity pay increases.
  • State Benefits: Enrollment in the South Carolina Police Officers Retirement System (PORS).
  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Paid Training: We pay for your South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy (SCCJA) certification.
  • Career Ladder: Clear pathways for promotion to Sergeant, Lieutenant, and specialized units.