1

Detention Officer Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-40

Detention Officer Trainee information

See salary details

$25.5K

$50.2K

$79.5K

How much do detention officer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 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 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 is a detention officer trainee?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a detention officer trainee?

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.
More about Detention Officer Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Detention Officer Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Detention Officer Trainee 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 Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Detention Officer Trainee jobs include:
Infographic showing various Detention Officer Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,155 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Detention Deputy Trainee / Correctional Officer Trainee

Bay County Sheriff's Office

Panama City, FL โ€ข On-site

$43K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Salary : $43,000.00 Annually
Location : Bay County Jail, FL
Job Type: Full-Time Sworn Corrections Deputy
Employment Hub: Bay County Sheriff's Office
Division: Jail Facility
Opening Date: 01/21/2026
FLSA: Determined by Position
The Bay County Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, religion, or any other legally protected characteristic.
General Description
This position performs essential correctional officer responsibilities under supervisor of a certified detention deputy. This role asset with care, custody, and control of inmates with professionalism, integrity, and compassion. The entry level compensation for this position is $43,000.00. Once certified, pay will increase to $49,920.00.
As a "Trainee", you will work with Detention Deputies and complete on-the-job-training. You will then attend a three-month long course to prepare you for a career as a Detention Deputy. Classes including firearms training, defensive tactics, CPR, and more. While attending the course, you will continue to receive your regular compensation. Upon completion you must take and pass the State Officer Certification Exam.
Illustrative Duties
  • Read, comprehend, and implement actions required to carry out post orders written for assigned post.
  • Monitor the safety practices and the preparation and dissemination of reports as required by policy.
  • Perform searches of people and objects capable of concealing contraband, buildings and outdoor areas which will involve detecting and identifying objects, moving throughout the facility building(s) and/or grounds for long periods of time and detaining people.
  • Function in confined areas including such things as serving food, working rotating shifts, extended patrol and physically checking doors and gates to ensure they are secure.
  • Issue clothing and linen to housing units and requisitioned supplies as directed.
  • Endure verbal and mental abuse when confronted with the hostile views and opinions of inmates and others encountered in an antagonistic environment.
  • Take appropriate action to prevent or diffuse potentially disruptive situations.
  • Ability to remain alert and react quickly and calmly in high stress situations.

NOTE: These are illustrative duties. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Minimum 18 years of age or older.
  • Graduation from high school or possession of an accredited equivalency diploma.
  • Valid Florida Driver's License.
  • Desire to be a Detention/Correctional Deputy/Officer in the State of Florida certified through Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC).
  • Be of good moral character.
  • Clean criminal background.

Supplemental Information
Qualified applicants will be required to pass a physical abilities test to advance in the selection process.
Candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment must then successfully complete a comprehensive background investigation, Computer Voice Stress Analyzer (CVSA), and drug screening.
The Bay County Sheriff's Office offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and professional growth of its members. These benefits reflect the agency's commitment to employee well-being, work-life balance, and long-term career development, ensuring personnel are equipped to serve the community effectively while planning confidently for the future.
Benefits include:
  • Special Risk Retirement through
  • $150,000 intentional act death, $50,000 occupational accidental death and $50,000 fresh pursuit/response to emergency accidental death insurance.
  • Eleven paid 8-hour holidays per year.
  • Twelve paid 8-hour sick leave days per year.
  • Twelve paid 8-hour vacation days per year.
  • Seventeen paid military days per year.
  • Major medical coverage (including family), 70% paid by BCSO. Optional cafeteria plan (Tax deferred insurance deductions). Optional additional insurance coverage.
  • Worker's Compensation coverage.
  • Paid membership for the Florida Deputy Sheriff's Association to include legal representation.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential, no-cost support for employees and eligible dependents, including counseling services; stress management; family and relationship support; legal and financial consultations; mediation services; substance abuse assistance; and resources for managing life changes and personal crises.
  • Peer Support Program (CISM): Access to the Bay County Critical Incident Stress Management Team, providing confidential peer support to help employees effectively manage the personal and professional stresses associated with public safety service.
  • Employee Health Clinic / Sick Bay: Access to the BCSO Employee Health Clinic (Sick Bay) for employees and eligible dependents covered under the Florida Sheriffs Health Plan. The clinic provides convenient primary care services, including annual physical exams and treatment for common illnesses and minor injuries such as colds, flu, sinus infections, sprains, and minor fractures. Services are typically available Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Education Assistance / Tuition Reimbursement: Tuition assistance for accredited college coursework, covering up to 12 semester credit hours (or 15 quarter hours) per year, with reimbursement levels of 100%, 90%, or 80% based on eligibility.
  • Educational and Advanced Training Incentive Pay: Received up to $120/months ($1,440/annually) for eligible education and training categories below, individually or in combination:
    • Educational Incentive Pay: $30 per month ($360 annually) for an associate degree or $80 per month ($960 annually) for a bachelor's degree through an accredited college.
    • Advanced Training Incentive: up to $240 annually for every 80 hours of approved advanced training completed, up to 480 hours, for a maximum incentive of $120 per month / $1440 annually.
  • Wellness Incentive Program
  • 24/7 Fitness Access: Free, around-the-clock access to agency gym facilities.
  • Uniforms and equipment furnished.
  • Annual retention bonus of $500 and longevity bonus up to $500, both reflected in starting pay breakdown.
  • Career Opportunities & Advancement: The Bay County Sheriff's Office offers a wide range of career paths designed to match individual interests, skills, and long-term goals. Members may compete for selection into specialized units such as K-9, Crisis Negotiation, sUAS Unit, Honor Guard, Mobile Field Force, and Incident Management / Emergency Response Team. The agency supports professional growth through specialty duty incentive pay, supervisory and leadership development opportunities, and clearly defined promotional pathways, allowing employees to build a challenging and rewarding law enforcement career.
  • Covered under Career Protection Act.

The Bay County Sheriff's Office offers a wide range of employee benefits. Click to learn more about our Benefits.
01
Have you ever been convicted of a felony?
  • Yes
  • No

02
If you have been convicted of a felony, please provide specific details for each occurrence including: 1) Date; 2) Location; 3) Charge and a description of the offense; 4) Penalty/Disposition. If this is not applicable, please type "NA" in the box below.
03
Did you obtain your GED or High School Diploma?
  • Yes, I have my High School Diploma.
  • Yes, I have my GED.
  • No, I do not have my GED or High School Diploma.

04
Have you graduated or are you currently enrolled in a Corrections academy?
  • Yes, I have graduated a Corrections academy
  • Yes, I am currently enrolled in a Corrections academy
  • No, I have not graduated nor am I enrolled in a Corrections Academy.

Required Question