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Detention Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fulton County

DETENTION OFFICER

Atlanta, GA

$54K/yr

Detention Officer - Fulton County Sheriff's Office | Whalls Group Fulton County has engaged the WHALLS GROUP to lead the recruitment process for the position of Detention Officer. All submitted ...

Lewis and Clark County

DETENTION OFFICER

Helena, MT · On-site

$37K - $52K/yr

Detention Officers are responsible for ensuring safe and smooth operations of the jail. This includes supervising and monitoring incarcerated individuals, transporting, and overseeing the daily ...

City of Hoover

Detention Officer

Hoover, AL · On-site

$22.82 - $35.38/hr

Eligible Detention Officer candidates may be hired as part-time employees and will be considered for full-time Detention Officer positions as such openings occur.

Grant, County of (NM)

Detention Officer

Silver City, NM

$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 ...

City of Hoover

Detention Officer

Hoover, AL

$22.82 - $35.38/hr

Eligible Detention Officer candidates may be hired as part-time employees and will be considered for full-time Detention Officer positions as such openings occur.

City of Hoover

Detention Officer

Hoover, AL · On-site

$37K - $51K/yr

Detention Officer candidates who meet the minimum requirements will be further screened through our evaluation process, which considers related work experience, education, certifications and special ...

Yellowstone County

$24.67/hr

Description Yellowstone County candidates for Detention Officer shall adhere to generally accepted business standards for appearance with respect to body art and physical alterations. Face, neck, and ...

Henderson County

Detention Officer

Hendersonville, NC · On-site

$23.74/hr

Open - open and accepting applications Detention Officer The Henderson County Sheriff's Officer is currently accepting applications for Full Time Detention Officer positions in the Henderson County ...

Alamance County Government

Detention Officer

Graham, NC · On-site

$25.38 - $41.97/hr

Detention Officers play a vital part in maintaining facility safety and security, preventing and detecting criminal activity, and upholding the criminal laws of North Carolina. Responsibilities ...

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All JobsDetention Officer Jobs

Detention Officer information

See salary details

$25.5K

$50.2K

$79.5K

How much do detention officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 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.

How much do Harris County detention officers make?

Detention officers typically earn an average salary ranging from $35,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and shift differentials. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced officers or those with specialized training can earn higher wages. Salaries often include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

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.

Is a detention officer a real officer?

Yes, 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 to complete training and obtain certifications relevant to law enforcement standards.

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 it hard being a detention officer?

Being a detention officer can be physically and emotionally demanding due to the need to manage potentially aggressive inmates and maintain security. The job requires strong communication skills, adherence to protocols, and often involves shift work, including nights and weekends.

What do I need to become a detention officer?

To become a detention officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks and drug screenings, and complete training programs provided by the employing agency. Some positions may require prior experience in law enforcement or security, and certification in first aid or CPR can be beneficial.
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Detention Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Detention Officer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $50,155 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Detention Officer

Lauderdale County Sheriff's Department

Meridian, MS

$39K - $53K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 hours ago

Job description

Lauderdale County Sheriff's Office Deputy, Detention Officer, and Civilian employees receive added benefits as well as competitive pay.

Deputies receive added pay incentives, such as, night differential, education and years of experience.

Full-time Deputies, Detention Officers, and Civilians receive medical insurance, life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, holiday pay and state retirement.

All positions have the opportunity to advance, whether it be within Patrol or Corrections or make the move laterally to Narcotics, Criminal Investigations, Courts or School Resource.


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