Detention Sergeant information
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$37.5K - $41.7K
0% of jobs
$50.8K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$50.2K - $54.4K
32% of jobs
$57.2K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$54.4K - $58.6K
35% of jobs
$58.6K - $62.9K
11% of jobs
$62.9K - $67.1K
0% of jobs
$67.1K - $71.3K
0% of jobs
$71.3K - $75.5K
0% of jobs
$75.5K - $79.8K
1% of jobs
How much do detention sergeant jobs pay per year?
As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for detention sergeant in the United States is $56,879.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $56,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Detention Sergeants are supervisory law enforcement professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations and staff within jails or detention centers. They ensure the safety, security, and well-being of both inmates and correctional officers. Their duties typically include supervising correctional staff, managing inmate movement and activities, enforcing facility rules, and responding to emergencies or incidents. Detention Sergeants play a critical role in maintaining order and upholding regulations within correctional facilities.
As a Detention Sergeant, you play a key supervisory role, working closely with correctional officers, administrative staff, and facility management to ensure daily operations run smoothly. You'll regularly coordinate schedules, communicate policy updates, and manage emergency responses, requiring strong teamwork and leadership skills. Collaboration often extends to working with medical personnel and external law enforcement agencies to maintain safety and compliance. Building effective relationships with your team is crucial for maintaining order and addressing any challenges that arise within the facility.
To thrive as a Detention Sergeant, you need a background in law enforcement or corrections, supervisory experience, and knowledge of detention center protocols, often supported by relevant certifications or completion of correctional training programs. Familiarity with security systems, incident reporting software, and inmate management tools is typically required. Strong leadership, conflict resolution, and communication skills help manage staff and maintain a safe environment. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring order, safety, and effective operations within a detention facility.
Who are the top companies hiring for Detention Sergeant jobs?
The top employers for Detention Sergeant jobs are:
What states have the most Detention Sergeant jobs?
States with the most job openings for Detention Sergeant jobs include:
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