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Detention Supervisor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Youth Services Supervisor

Eugene, OR ยท On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

The Detention Supervisor directs the activities, programs, and care for youth detained in the detention facility; supervises up to 26 employees assigned to the detention facility and non-secure ...

$24.67/hr

Performs routine supervisory work in the safekeeping of prisoners in custody at the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office Detention Facility. Protects the well-being of prisoners overseeing them at ...

Come Join our Detention Deputy Team! * Learns specific detention related skills under supervision ... Supervises inmate activities and maintains discipline; physically restrains uncooperative and ...

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Detention Supervisor information

What are Detention Supervisors?

Detention Supervisors are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations and staff within a detention facility, such as a jail or juvenile detention center. They ensure safety and security, enforce facility rules, and manage detainee behavior. Detention Supervisors also supervise correctional officers, coordinate schedules, and respond to incidents or emergencies. Their role is crucial in maintaining order and supporting the rehabilitation or custody of individuals held in detention.

What is the difference between Detention Supervisor vs Correctional Officer?

AspectDetention SupervisorCorrectional Officer
CertificationsBasic correctional training, supervisory certificationBasic correctional training
Work EnvironmentOversees detention facility operations, manages staffPerforms security duties, supervises inmates
Employer & IndustryJails, prisons, detention centersJails, prisons, detention centers

While both roles work within detention facilities, a Detention Supervisor primarily manages staff and oversees daily operations, requiring supervisory certifications. Correctional Officers focus on security and inmate supervision. The supervisor role involves leadership responsibilities, whereas officers handle direct security tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Detention Supervisor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Detention Supervisor, you need a solid understanding of correctional facility operations, supervisory experience, and often a relevant degree or law enforcement background. Familiarity with incident reporting systems, security monitoring technology, and compliance protocols is typically required. Strong leadership, conflict resolution, and clear communication skills help manage staff and maintain a safe, orderly environment. These competencies are crucial for upholding safety, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering effective team dynamics in detention settings.

What are some common challenges faced by Detention Supervisors, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Detention Supervisors often encounter challenges such as managing conflict among detainees, ensuring staff safety, and maintaining compliance with facility regulations. Effective communication, strong leadership, and consistent enforcement of rules are key to overcoming these issues. Supervisors frequently collaborate with correctional officers, mental health professionals, and administrative staff to address incidents and create a safe environment. Regular training and staying current with best practices help supervisors proactively manage these challenges.
More about Detention Supervisor jobs

Detention Specialist (Female)

Prince William County, VA

Woodbridge, VA โ€ข On-site

$23.25 - $45.12/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Salary: $23.25 - $45.12 Hourly
Location : Manassas, VA
Job Type: Full-Time (FT)
Job Number: 202610605
Department: OFFICE OF YOUTH SERVICES
Division: JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER
Opening Date: 06/02/2026
Closing Date: 6/16/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
GRADE: B22
Hiring Salary: $25.44 - $29.05
Introduction
The Prince William County Office of Youth Services is seeking to hire a highly motivated person for a Female Detention Specialist position at the Juvenile Detention Center (JDC) located in Manassas on Rt. 234. JDC provides secure custody to juveniles between the ages of 12 and 20 who are criminally charged, pending court adjudication, awaiting transfer to another facility, or awaiting an appropriate placement. This position is assigned to the female dorm (although you will mainly work on the female unit, the population demands will dictate where you will be assigned). Therefore, for this role, we are seeking qualified female applicants. Male applicants are welcome to apply for future vacancies assigned to the male dorm. If you believe you can make a difference in someone's life and can demonstrate good decision-making skills and excellent personal judgment, then you will find this job personally and professionally rewarding.
Hiring Bonus - This position qualifies for a hiring bonus of $5,000. This bonus will be paid in two equal installments. The first installment of $2,500 is payable after ninety (90) days of employment have been completed. The final installment of $2,500 will be upon completion of the probationary period.
WHAT THE JOB ENTAILS
The Female Detention Specialist will work under the general supervision of a Detention Supervisor or a Detention Assistant Superintendent. The role will provide a safe and secure environment through the following:
  • Supervise detainee activities during assigned shift.
  • Organize and supervise recreational, educational, and life skills programs.
  • Conduct group activities on topics such as problem-solving, anger management, and decision-making.
  • Enforce facility regulations, policies, and procedures, and recommend revisions to policies and procedures.
  • Monitor their assigned work areas to ensure safety and efficient operations.
  • Perform intake procedures to include completing intakes, releases, tracking court dates, and coordinating with other agencies.
  • Respond to disorderly youth and perform physical restraint techniques when necessary.
  • Facilitate video conferencing for court hearings.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the shift supervisor or Assistant Superintendent.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL
Ideally, we seek an individual who has experience working with at-risk youth, preferably in a secure facility. However, any experience working with youth or at-risk-youth is welcome. You will need the ability to work independently and make decisions based on established policies and procedures; commit to modeling positive decision-making skills and guiding youth to make better choices; an ability to perform physical restraints when necessary, using the "Handle with Care" techniques; basic computer skills and the ability to utilize basic monitoring equipment such as video cameras and handheld radios. Bilingual (English/Spanish) speakers are encouraged to apply.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
High school diploma or G.E.D. and 1 year of experience working and/or volunteering with youth in any of the following areas: education, recreation, human services, security, military, law enforcement, or secure residential setting.
PREFERRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
  • Knowledge of trends and practices for working with at-risk-youth.
  • Experience working with at-risk youth in a secure setting.
  • Experience working in law enforcement or security.
  • Experience with implementing positive behavioral modification methods, pro-social engagement, progressive engagement, trauma-informed models, and have experience with conflict resolution.
  • Experience teaching life skills, problem-solving, anger management, and decision-making.
  • Experience using physical restraint techniques such as "Handle with Care."
  • CPR/First Aid Certified.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish).

SCHEDULE REQUIREMENTS
12-hour shifts: Day 7 am-7 pm or Night 7 pm-7 am
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Must pass local, state, and federal background checks
  • Must pass a pre-employment physical/physical fitness test
  • Must pass a Child Protective Services record check
  • Must possess a valid driver's license with a safe driving record
  • Must pass DMV Record check
  • Must be able to work any shift
  • Must be able to work overtime
  • Must be able to get to work in inclement weather
  • Designated mandatory reporter of child abuse
  • Must pass Handle with Care (HWC) training; CPR & First Aid certification; PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act) training within 90 days of employment

HIRING SALARY RANGE: $25.44 - $29.05
HIRING INCENTIVE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This position qualifies for Level II Hiring Incentive - Fifty percent (50%) of the incentive will be paid after ninety (90) days of employment have been completed. The payment will be processed in the paycheck for the pay period that includes the ninetieth (90th) calendar day. The remaining fifty percent (50%) will be paid following the completion of the probationary period. The payment will be processed in the paycheck for the pay period that includes the probation end date. Should the employee voluntarily terminate employment with the County, the employee shall repay the net amount (minus state and federal taxes) of the first bonus installment payment via a deduction from the annual leave payout. Should the annual leave payout not cover the net bonus amount, the employee will repay the remaining amount within thirty (30) days following separation of employment from the County.
NOTES
We also offer great benefits, including:
  • Retirement from the Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
  • 401a and 457 retirement savings and investment plans
  • Paid Annual Leave
  • Paid Personal Leave
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Paid Holidays
  • Optional Group Medical and Dental Health Plans
  • Optional Group Life Insurance
  • An Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Career Development Opportunities

Full-time positions with Prince William County Government qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. Click here for additional information.
The above position description is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities; specific position assignments will vary depending on the business needs of the department. To view the class description in its entirety,
Prince William County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
SEE YOURSELF HERE!
Prince William County Government offers medical plans with corresponding pharmacy and basic vision coverage, as well as dental plans and a separate vision plan.
Full-time and part-time Prince William County Government employees are eligible to participate in our plans; however, the level and cost of benefits depends on the classification of the position.
The following positions do not accrue leave and are not eligible for holidays or other fringe benefits:
  • Temporary
  • Provisional
  • Seasonal employees
Click on the link below to explore our plans and rates.
01
I understand that information provided on my application is used to determine my qualifications. Information on my resume will not substitute for the education, work experience and required fields on the County application. Only information provided at the time of the application submission will be considered when determining my qualifications. Only responses to Supplemental Questions that can be verified in my submitted education and work experience will be credited.
  • I have read, understand, and acknowledge the above statement.
  • I decline to proceed any further in this process.

02
Are you currently a resource/foster parent for a child in PWC DSS foster care program?
  • Yes
  • No

03
This position requires a high school diploma/G.E.D. and one year of related experience. Please select the response from the options below that best represents your highest level of completed education. Please make sure that your response corresponds with what is documented in the education section of your application.
  • Bachelor's degree or higher
  • Associate degree
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • None of the above

04
Please quantify your experience working or volunteering with youth in the areas of recreation, human services, security, military, law enforcement, or secure residential settings. Please be sure the experience is clearly documented in your application.
  • Three or more years of experience
  • Two or more years of experience
  • One year or more of experience
  • No experience

05
Do you have experience performing physical restraints using "Handle with Care" or similar restraint techniques?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you have experience teaching any of the following life skills to youth (check all that apply)? Be sure responses are clearly described in your application.
  • Anger Management
  • Problem Solving
  • Decision Making
  • Finding a job
  • Money Management
  • Healthy Lifestyle
  • None of the above

07
Are you a bilingual in Spanish/English speaker?
  • Yes
  • No

08
Are you willing to accept a hiring salary range of $25.44 - $29.05
  • Yes
  • No

09
Can you work the following shifts: 12-hour shifts: Day 7 am-7 pm or Night 7 pm-7 am, other shifts/ hours as required?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question