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Detention Officer Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Baytown

Detention Officer/Trainee

Baytown, TX

$20.08/hr

Job Summary Join our team as a Detention Officer/Trainee, where you'll play a critical role in maintaining safety and security within our facilities. We're looking for motivated individuals with ...

City of Lewisville

Detention Officer

Lewisville, TX · On-site

$47K - $63K/yr

The Detention Officer's summary of duties includes, performs administrative, clerical, and manual ... If not successful in passing the final exam, the trainee will not graduate from the training ...

Son

Probation Officer Trainee

Gering, NE · On-site

$42K - $51K/yr

... detention interviews; testifying in courts; performing drug and alcohol testing; arresting or ... A Probation Officer Trainee's salary range is $42,178.47 to $51,390.36 annually . After probation ...

Nebraska State Jobs

Probation Officer Trainee

Gering, NE · On-site

$42K - $51K/yr

... detention interviews; testifying in courts; performing drug and alcohol testing; arresting or ... A Probation Officer Trainee's salary range is $42,178.47 to $51,390.36 annually After probation ...

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Detention Officer Trainee information

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$25.5K

$50.2K

$79.5K

How much do detention officer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for detention officer trainee 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 the difference between Detention Officer Trainee vs Detention Officer?

AspectDetention Officer TraineeDetention Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training programCompleted training; certification/license often required
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervisedFull-duty detention facility
Job StatusEntry-level, trainee statusFull employee role

The main difference is that a Detention Officer Trainee is in training and supervised, while a Detention Officer has completed training and performs full duties independently. Trainees are preparing to handle the responsibilities of detention work, whereas Detention Officers are fully qualified staff managing detainees and security.

How long is detention officer training?

Detention officer training typically lasts between 4 to 8 weeks and includes classroom instruction, practical skills, and certification requirements. The duration can vary depending on the jurisdiction and agency, with some programs requiring additional specialized training or on-the-job experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Detention Officer Trainees during their initial training period?

Detention Officer Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to a structured and disciplined environment, learning to manage confrontational or stressful situations with professionalism, and quickly mastering detailed procedures for inmate supervision, safety, and facility security. Adjusting to shift work, including nights and weekends, is another common hurdle. However, support from experienced officers and comprehensive training programs help trainees build confidence and competence as they transition into the role.

What are Detention Officer Trainees?

Detention Officer Trainees are entry-level employees who work in correctional facilities, such as jails or detention centers, while undergoing training to become fully qualified Detention Officers. They assist in supervising inmates, maintaining security, and performing various duties under the guidance of experienced officers. Their responsibilities may include monitoring inmate activities, conducting searches, and ensuring the safety of both staff and detainees. During their training period, they learn procedures, policies, and legal requirements necessary for the role. Upon successful completion of training and any required examinations, they may be promoted to Detention Officer positions.

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

To thrive as a Detention Officer Trainee, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and a solid understanding of safety and security procedures. Familiarity with security monitoring systems, incident reporting software, and basic first aid certifications are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set outstanding candidates apart. These skills are vital for maintaining safety, ensuring order, and effectively managing challenging situations within detention facilities.

How easy is it to become a detention officer?

Becoming a detention officer trainee typically requires meeting minimum age and education requirements, passing background checks, and completing a training program that covers security procedures and legal protocols. The process can vary by jurisdiction but generally involves a structured application and training period before full employment.

Is it worth it to be a detention officer?

A detention officer trainee role offers experience in security, law enforcement procedures, and conflict management, often with opportunities for advancement and benefits. However, it involves working in high-stress environments, irregular hours, and exposure to challenging situations, which should be considered when evaluating its value.

How much do detention officers make?

In Phoenix, detention officers typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced officers or those with specialized training can earn higher wages. Salaries are often complemented by shift differentials and benefits.
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Detention Officer Trainee jobs near you
Detention Officer/Trainee

Detention Officer/Trainee

City of Baytown

Baytown, TX

$20.08/hr

Other

Posted 23 days ago

City Of Baytown rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

331st of 648 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Job Summary Join our team as a Detention Officer/Trainee, where you'll play a critical role in maintaining safety and security within our facilities. We're looking for motivated individuals with strong communication skills and a commitment to upholding the law. This position offers comprehensive training and opportunities for career advancement.

Apply today to start a rewarding career in public safety. The Detention Officer/Trainee books in and releases prisoners; guards and maintains jail. Demonstrates interpersonal skills.

Able to deal effectively with the public and other employees. Able to complete assigned projects in a timely manner. The following tests will be administered and must be passed in order to be eligible for position; polygraph test, physical fitness and psychological assessments.

Duties Completes paperwork associated with prisoners and jail activity; fills out the jail log on the computer; maintains order and discipline in the jail; makes reports of jail incidents; reviews legal documents pertaining to prisoners and takes necessary actions, such as transfer to another facility; fingerprints and photographs all prisoners. Books in prisoners; reviews paperwork; obtains signature from prisoners on required documents; checks in prisoner's personal belongings and stores in proper area. Cares for prisoners; puts prisoners in cells; feeds and checks every 30 minutes; takes prisoners out to talk to detectives.

Takes money for cash bonds; gives receipts; accounts for funds. Performs all other job related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Detention Officer Trainee - Starting salary $20.08/hr with no experience Required: High School Diploma or equivalent (GED)

Ability to pass a Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) fingerprint-based background check and maintain CJIS eligibility. Able to pass a polygraph test, physical fitness and psychological assessments. Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record (must obtain TX driver's license within 90 days).

Preferred: Bilingual in English/Spanish Six months public safety experience or training Detention Officer - Starting salary $20.78/hr with six months experience Required: High School Diploma or equivalent (GED). Ability to pass a Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) fingerprint-based background check and maintain CJIS eligibility. Able to pass a polygraph test, physical fitness and psychological assessments

Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record (must obtain TX driver's license within 90 days). Six months related experience. Preferred: Bilingual in English/Spanish Six months public safety experience or training Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Ability to operate and use computers.

Ability to exercise patience and restraint when verbally and/or physically assaulted by prisoners and operate all equipment necessary in processing prisoners. Ability to get along appropriately with co-workers and the public. Here at the City of Baytown, in recruiting for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that you bring.

We strive to provide a workplace where differences are honored, with a workforce that reflects the diversity of the people we serve. Attendance is an essential function of this position. The City reserves the right to require an employee in this position to work overtime.

As a City employee you are required to provide services or perform duties for the benefit of the general public during emergency situations. These may include services or duties different from those performed in the usual course and scope of your job. In the event of an evacuation you may be required to remain to perform needed services.

Overall Position Strength Demands Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

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