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Detention Officer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

The Detention Officer acts as a processing officer by maintaining inmate information, verifying the completion of necessary forms; assigning appropriate cell location; determining inmate ...

Detention Officer

Lillington, NC · On-site

$45K - $75K/yr

Detention Officer: $45,789.00 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION: Receives inmates by conducting search, completing required intake forms, photographing and ...

As a Detention Officer, you'll play a critical role in maintaining safety and order while making a lasting impact on your community. If you're looking for a rewarding career with long-term potential ...

Detention Officer

Pittsboro, NC · On-site

$53K - $67K/yr

As a Detention Officer, you'll play a critical role in maintaining safety and order while making a lasting impact on your community. If you're looking for a rewarding career with long-term potential ...

Detention Officer

Louisburg, NC · On-site

$48K - $51K/yr

Must complete Taser training, Pepper Spray training, Firearm training, ASP Baton training, obtain CPR certification and Detention Officer certification within one year of employment. Franklin County ...

A minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Law Enforcement Officer with Arrest Authority; or a minimum of three (3) years of Prisoner Handling and detention experience as a Corrections ...

TRANSPORTATION OFFICER

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$25.97/hr

A minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Law Enforcement Officer with Arrest Authority; or a minimum of three (3) years of Prisoner Handling and detention experience as a Corrections ...

A minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Law Enforcement Officer with Arrest Authority; or a minimum of three (3) years of Prisoner Handling and detention experience as a Corrections ...

A minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Law Enforcement Officer with Arrest Authority; or a minimum of three (3) years of Prisoner Handling and detention experience as a Corrections ...

TRANSPORTATION OFFICER

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$25.97/hr

A minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Law Enforcement Officer with Arrest Authority; or a minimum of three (3) years of Prisoner Handling and detention experience as a Corrections ...

A minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Law Enforcement Officer with Arrest Authority; or a minimum of three (3) years of Prisoner Handling and detention experience as a Corrections ...

A minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Law Enforcement Officer with Arrest Authority; or a minimum of three (3) years of Prisoner Handling and detention experience as a Corrections ...

A minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Law Enforcement Officer with Arrest Authority; or a minimum of three (3) years of Prisoner Handling and detention experience as a Corrections ...

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Detention Officer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$24.8K

$48.8K

$77.3K

How much do detention officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for detention officer in Raleigh, NC is $48,755.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,900.00 and $53,500.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Detention Officer jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Detention Officer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Detention Officer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Detention Officer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Detention Officer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Detention Officer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Detention Officer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Detention Officer job openings:
Infographic showing various Detention Officer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,755 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

$55K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Johnston County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Description The Detention Center of Johnston County in Smithfield, NC is currently accepting online applications for Detention Officers. This position will be required to work nights and weekends.

The Detention Officer receives inmates and conducts searches for contraband; completes required intake forms; and secures personal property. The Detention Officer acts as a processing officer by maintaining inmate information, verifying the completion of necessary forms; assigning appropriate cell location; determining inmate classification; and maintaining inmate count and cell locations. Duties and Responsibilities Oversees the security and activities of inmates; supervises meals and cleaning of facilities; distributes personal property; monitors inmates' medical status and takes actions when illness or injury is suspected.

Provides non-confidential inmate information to the public, attorney, and bond personnel; maintains files on inmates; searches incoming property delivered to inmates; verifies visitor acceptance by inmate. Releases inmates on bond due to court order or time served; ensures release papers are proper and complete; returns personal property to individual; completes forms providing required documentation of release. Supervises cleaning and maintenance of center facilities and fixtures.

Additional Duties Supervises cleaning and maintenance of Detention Center and fixtures. Coordinates the prisoner commissary program. Performs related clerical work.

Performs related work as required. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Working knowledge of policies and procedures covering inmate security, classification, care, and discipline. Ability to exercise sound judgment in routine and emergency situations.

Ability to work in a confining work environment. Ability to deal tactfully and firmly with inmates and the public. Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records.

Ability to maintain effective working relationships with supervisor, other employees, and the public. Ability to actively listen to inmate conversations and sounds in the facility and exercise judgment in determining potential security problems. Physical Requirements Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, reaching, standing, walking, talking, hearing, and perform repetitive motions.

Must be able to perform work exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Must possess the visual acuity to determine accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned. Desired Education and Experience Must be 21 years of age.

High school diploma or equivalent. Must be able to pass a background investigation. Special Requirements Meet the minimum standards set by the State of North Carolina for detention personnel.

Employees in this class must be certified by the Sheriff's Training and Standards Commission within one year of employment. NOTE: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities or qualifications associated with the job. Other duties may be assigned.

Important Pre-Employment Information: If the position requires a degree, official transcripts must be submitted within 30 days of hire. A pre-employment reference check will be conducted. A background check may be required and may include criminal history, motor vehicle records, sex offender registry checks, pre-employment drug screening, SBI fingerprinting, and, if applicable, a National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) check.

A conviction record does not automatically disqualify you from employment, unless otherwise required by state law. Each situation is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.