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Detention Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DETENTION OFFICER

Folkston, GA

$37K - $52K/yr

Job Title Detention Officer The Detention Officer oversees and maintains custody, care, and control of detainees of a facility, while enforcing the rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of the ...

The detention officer maintains paperwork, statistics and records. The detention officer maintains the jail facility to include security, access and egress of control, cleanliness, inventory, and ...

Detention Officer

Plano, TX · On-site

$38K - $52K/yr

BECOME A DETENTION OFFICER TODAY! Are you ready to embark on a career that truly impacts your community? Step into the role of a Detention Officer and become a pivotal figure in safeguarding the well ...

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 ...

The Detention Officer oversees and monitors the activities of the detainees in living areas, recreation activities areas, dining areas and visitation areas. * Coordinates and monitors detainee ...

The Detention Officer oversees and monitors the activities of the detainees in living areas, recreation activities areas, dining areas and visitation areas. * Coordinates and monitors detainee ...

Detention Officer

Houston, TX · On-site

$38K - $52K/yr

Armed Detention Officer - responsible for transporting and securing inmates to and at hospitals or clinics. * Detention Sergeant - responsible for supervising detention officers assigned to their ...

DETENTION OFFICER

Folkston, GA · On-site

$22.64/hr

The Detention Officer oversees and monitors the activities of the detainees in living areas, recreation activities areas, dining areas and visitation areas. * Coordinates and monitors detainee ...

Position Description 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 ...

Position Description 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 ...

DETENTION OFFICER

Helena, MT · On-site

$26.24 - $26.92/hr

Detention Officers are responsible for ensuring safe and smooth operations of the jail. This includes supervising and monitoring incarcerated individuals, transporting, and overseeing the daily ...

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Detention Officer information

See salary details

$25.5K

$50.2K

$79.5K

How much do detention officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for detention 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Detention Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Detention Officer, you need a solid understanding of correctional procedures, legal guidelines, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and specialized detention or law enforcement training. Familiarity with security monitoring systems, incident reporting software, and restraint equipment is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help manage inmate behavior and resolve conflicts. These skills are crucial for maintaining facility security, ensuring legal compliance, and promoting safety for both staff and inmates.

What Is a Detention Officer?

A detention officer is responsible for supervising detained or incarcerated inmates in state-run facilities like jails and prisons. Some officers have duties in courtrooms and juvenile detention centers. In this job, you ensure inmates conduct themselves in a safe and orderly manner. You observe and report questionable behavior to superior officers, such as the prison warden. You may be required to physically detain unruly inmates. You may also be required to escort inmates to and from the facility for transfers and court appearances.

How to become a detention officer?

To become a detention officer, applicants typically need to be at least 18 years old, pass a background check, and complete a detention officer training program approved by the state. Some positions may require a high school diploma or equivalent, and candidates often need to demonstrate good communication skills and physical fitness.

Is a detention officer a real officer?

A detention officer is a real law enforcement professional responsible for supervising inmates in jails or detention centers. They enforce rules, ensure safety, and may need training or certification depending on the jurisdiction.

What are Detention Officers?

Detention Officers are law enforcement professionals responsible for overseeing and managing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences in jails or detention facilities. They maintain the safety, security, and order within these facilities by supervising inmates, conducting searches, and enforcing rules and regulations. Detention Officers also handle inmate intake and release procedures, respond to emergencies, and work closely with other law enforcement personnel. Their role is crucial in ensuring a safe environment for both inmates and staff within correctional institutions.

What are some typical challenges Detention Officers face in managing inmate behavior, and how are these addressed on the job?

Detention Officers frequently encounter challenges such as de-escalating conflicts, enforcing facility rules, and maintaining order among inmates with diverse backgrounds. These situations require strong communication skills, vigilance, and adherence to established protocols. Officers are trained in conflict resolution, crisis intervention, and safety procedures to address these challenges effectively. Teamwork and regular briefings with colleagues and supervisors also play a critical role in ensuring a safe and secure environment.

Is being a detention officer worth it?

A detention officer is responsible for supervising inmates and maintaining security in correctional facilities. The job offers steady employment, benefits, and opportunities for advancement, but it can involve high-stress situations and exposure to violence. Whether it is worth it depends on personal interest in law enforcement and ability to handle challenging environments.

Do you need experience to be a detention officer?

While prior experience is not always required to become a detention officer, having relevant skills such as communication, conflict resolution, and knowledge of security 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. Certifications in first aid or security may also be advantageous.
What cities are hiring for Detention Officer jobs? Cities with the most Detention Officer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Detention Officer jobs? The most popular types of Detention Officer jobs are:
What states have the most Detention Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Detention Officer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Detention Officer jobs? For Detention Officer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Detention Officer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 96% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $50,155 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

$37K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Benefits Information

Full-time employees will enjoy a competitive benefits package with options for you and your family including:

* Paid Time Off

* Paid Holidays

* 401(k) Matching

* Health Insurance

* Vision Insurance

* Life Insurance

* Health Savings Account

* Tuition Reimbursement

* Employee Discount

* Reduced Tuition Rates

* Disability Insurance

* Employee Assistance Program

* 401(k)

* Pet Insurance

* Dental Insurance

* Paid Training

* Flexible Spending Account

The compensation and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, with or without notice, subject to applicable law.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Overview

Are you looking for a career you can feel good about? We hire only those that strive to do their best. By joining our family, you'll receive the honor and recognition that comes with working for the industry's global leader in evidenced based rehabilitation.

Who We Are:

GEO provides complementary, turnkey solutions for numerous government partners worldwide across a spectrum of diversified correctional and community reentry services. From the development of state-of-the-art facilities and the provision of management services and evidence-based rehabilitation to the post-release reintegration and supervision of individuals in the community, GEO offers fully diversified, cost-effective services that deliver enhanced quality and improved outcomes.

Why Work for GEO:

  • We believe that work is more than a place you go to every day. It is about being inspired and motivated to achieve extraordinary things.
  • Employee benefits play an important role in making The GEO Group a great place to work. At GEO, we believe in the three pillars of employee wellbeing: physical, emotional, and financial. With comprehensive benefits and competitive wages, we trust that you will find all the resources you need here to be successful.
Responsibilities

Summary
The Detention Officer oversees and maintains custody, care, and control of detainees of a facility, while enforcing the rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of the company and contracting agency.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • The Detention Officer oversees and monitors the activities of the detainees in living areas, recreation activities areas, dining areas and visitation areas.
  • Coordinates and monitors detainee movements, conducts counts, and provides emergency response as needed.
  • The Detention Officer may be assigned to various posts including, but not limited to, the control room, front and sally port entrance, health services, special housing, perimeter security, transportation, work details, reception, intake, and visits officer, etc., as required by management.
  • Provides security in program activities and supervises labor crews in various areas around facility.
  • The Detention Officer conducts shakedowns for contraband materials, either individually or as part of a specialized team. Confiscates contraband in accordance to facility and contracting agency policies and procedures.
  • Initiates disciplinary reports on detainees.
  • The Detention Officer prepares reports and maintains daily logs as required.
  • Ensures prompt and appropriate assistance to detainees in the event of injury, illness, or trauma.
  • The Detention Officer promotes facility cleanliness and reports need for maintenance or repairs.
  • Serves as member of special teams to respond to emergencies as required.
  • The Detention Officer completes training courses as required by facility training standards
  • Perform correctional duties for any shift as defined by management.
  • The Officer performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent certification required.
  • College coursework and advanced training in behavioral sciences, correctional services or related field preferred. Training in cultural diversity or sensitivity preferred.
  • Possession of applicable state requisites for employment.
  • Ability to work overtime as required.
  • Ability to handle physical and mental stress associated with working extended hours.
  • Must be able to regularly report to work without being late.
  • Ability to be physically alert on any shift that is assigned.
  • Ability to work up to sixteen (16) hours within a rolling twenty-four (24) hour period.
  • Work experience in a correctional setting preferred.
  • May be required to possess valid state driver's license.
  • Must be mature, flexible, able to command the respect and confidence of inmates and staff and possess a high tolerance to mental stress.
  • Must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age.