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Detention Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The GEO Group

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 ...

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 ...

Harris County

Detention Officer

Houston, TX · On-site

$46K/yr

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 ...

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

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 ...

New Hanover County

Detention Officer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$23.07/hr

Detention Officers are responsible for performing duties relative to the safety, security, and detention of inmates at the New Hanover County Detention Facility. Duties include Processing incoming ...

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 ...

Harris County, TX

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 ...

The GEO Group

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 ...

Cass County Government

Detention Officer

Fargo, ND · On-site

$55K/yr

As a Detention Officer, you will play a vital role in maintaining the safety, security, and order of the detention facility. Your responsibilities will include monitoring inmate activities ...

The GEO Group

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 ...

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 ...

Madison County, AL

Detention Officer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$52K/yr

Detention Officer I - 0 to 4 years of experience * Detention Officer II - 4 to 8 years of experience * Detention Officer III - 8+ years of experience Essential Duties and Responsibilities (All duties ...

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Detention Officer information

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$25.5K

$50.2K

$79.5K

How much do detention officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 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 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.

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.

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

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.

How many hours do you work as a detention officer?

Detention officers typically work 40 hours per week, often in shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays. Overtime may be required depending on staffing needs and emergencies, and schedules can vary by facility and jurisdiction.

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 tolerance for the job's challenges.

What education do you need to be a detention officer?

To become a detention officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some agencies prefer or require additional training or certification, such as detention officer training programs or first aid certification, which can be obtained through law enforcement academies or community colleges.
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Detention Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Detention Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,155 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

DETENTION OFFICER

The GEO Group

Folkston, GA • On-site

$22.64/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

The GEO Group rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 43 rated prisons

Job description

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.

What The GEO Group employees say

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