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Detention Officer Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Probation Officer Trainee (Juvenile)

Hastings, NE

$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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$25.5K

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$79.5K

How much do detention officer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 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.

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.
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Detention Officer Trainee jobs near you

Correctional Officer Trainee -Elmore

Alabama Department of Corrections

Deatsville, AL

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

The Alabama Department of Corrections is hiring Correctional Officer Trainees in Elmore, Alabama. Start at $27.94/hour with full benefits. Apply now and serve your community with top pay, and purpose that matters

Salary Information

$55,375.20 - $70,718.40 Annually

$26.62 - $34.00 Hourly

PLUS earn up to almost 30% more within the first 2 years!

General Overview

The Correctional Officer Trainee is an entry-level, full-time position with the Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC). Employees serve a critical role in the overall success of the ADOC by performing correctional work in state prisons by overseeing the custody, rehabilitation, and reentry of inmates. Correctional officers participate in the custody, transport, detention, treatment, and rehabilitation of adult inmates in correctional institutions following ADOC administrative regulations and job specific training. Correctional officers must be alert, decisive, demonstrate good judgment, and serve the citizens of the State of Alabama honor and integrity.

Responsibilities of a Correctional Officer

(Any one position may not include all the duties listed, nor do the examples cover all the duties which may be performed.)

  • Stands watch in halls or in wall towers to control movement of inmates.
  • Supervises groups of inmates on work details in kitchens, shops, laundries, recreation areas; instructs inmates performing semi-skilled and unskilled manual assignments; checks inmates in and out of the institution.
  • Inspects quarters for safety and sanitary conditions and for presence of contraband, searches inmates and visitors for contraband.
  • Maintains constant alert and reports unusual conditions and disturbances; inspects doors, fences, and other security equipment.
  • Makes regular and unscheduled inmate counts and constant checks on those supervised.
  • Completes reports and keeps records of work progress, behavior of inmates, infractions of rules of conduct, and unusual occurrences.
  • Drives transfer vehicle and inspects and keeps screens and other safety equipment in perfect condition.
  • Explains to inmates rules, procedures, and services available at correctional institutions; assists inmates regarding personal problems, educational and vocational opportunities, and work assignments through day-to-day contacts.
  • Observes inmate behavior and adjustment to a correctional environment; submits evaluation reports.
  • Instructs inmates in personal hygiene, discipline, and proper etiquette.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Applicants must possess a high school diploma or GED certificate (copy will be required during hiring process)
  • Applicants must be 19 years of age or older
  • Applicants must provide one of the following during the hiring process:
    1. Valid certification of having passed the Basic Ability Test (BAT) for Law Enforcement Officers (also called ACT WorkKeys). - OR -
    2. Proof of possession of an Associate's degree or higher from an accredited college or university (copy of diploma and/or transcript will be required during hiring process).

NOTE: Applicants previously certified by APOSTC are not required to take the BAT, provided they have been active within the last ten (10) years.

Special Requirements
  • Applicants must be a U.S. Citizen at the time of appointment.
  • Applicants must possess a valid driver license from their State of residency.
  • Applicants must meet APOSTC requirements, designated agency training, and other specialized training during the probationary period. Includes the successful completion of a 10-week training program at the ADOC Training Center located in Selma, Alabama.
  • Applicants must participate in a Pre-Employment Physical Assessment. Specific details of assessment can be accessed on the ADOC website.
  • Applicants must successfully complete a background investigation which includes a fingerprint-based criminal history background check and drug screening. Applicants with a felony and/or domestic violence conviction are not eligible for employment.
  • If an applicant is a veteran of the armed forces of the United States, their discharge must be under honorable conditions.
  • Applicants are subject to assignment anywhere within the State.
Benefits

Subsistence Pay

$12/day physically worked (estimated to be a $2,500 - $3,000 annual benefit)

Retirement

  • Defined Benefit Retirement Plan (employer/employee based)
  • Optional Deferred Compensation Programs

Low Cost Health Insurance

  • Blue Cross/Blue Shield Health (Single/Family Coverage)
  • Optional Dental (Single/Family Coverage)
  • Optional Health and Supplemental Insurance Coverage
  • Optional Cancer Policy
  • Discounted Vision Care Program
  • Flexible Benefits Program (pre-tax dollars for qualified Medical Expense and Dependent Care)

Paid Time Off

  • 12 Holidays per year
  • 1 Personal leave day per year or Mardi Gras Holiday (Baldwin and Mobile counties only)
  • 13 Sick days per year (accrued time off)
  • 13 to 29 Annual leave days per year (accrued time off)
  • 168 Hours of military leave per year
    Learn more about jobs at the ADOC.

Apply