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Jail Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Meherrin River Regional Jail

Jail Officer

Alberta, VA · On-site

$52K/yr

Jail officers' intake, process, transport, and provide for the safety and security of inmates, staff members and the community. Officers may be assigned other duties specific to specialized areas of ...

Meherrin River Regional Jail

Jail Officer

Alberta, VA · On-site

$52K/yr

Jail officers' intake, process, transport, and provide for the safety and security of inmates, staff members and the community. Officers may be assigned other duties specific to specialized areas of ...

Sheriff's Office

Jail Officer

Hinesville, GA · On-site

Enforces jail rules and regulations for the inmate population. * Books and processes inmates. * Inspects the conditions of locks, windows, grills, doors, and gates at the jail facility. * Operates ...

St. Clair County (IL)

IL

$49K - $77K/yr

Clair County Jail, ensuring inmate welfare, maintenance of jail security, and adherence to both departmental policy and applicable state statute; performs related booking, admitting, and release ...

Prince William County, VA

Jail Officer

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$66K - $116K/yr

The Prince William-Manassas Regional Adult Detention Center (ADC) has full-time career opportunities for Jail Officers. In this role, you will protect behind the walls as you serve the community ...

County of Pottawatomie

Jailer Recruit

Westmoreland, KS

$21.06 - $31.83/hr

Description This position performs Jail duties ensuring the welfare of all inmates of the Pottawatomie County Jail. Jailers participate in the day-to-day operations of the jail. Jailer participation ...

Pottawatomie County

Jailer Recruit

Westmoreland, KS · On-site

$31.83/hr

Job Type Full-time Description This position performs Jail duties ensuring the welfare of all inmates of the Pottawatomie County Jail. Jailers participate in the day-to-day operations of the jail.

Pottawatomie County

Jailer Recruit

Westmoreland, KS · On-site

$21.06 - $31.83/hr

This position performs Jail duties ensuring the welfare of all inmates of the Pottawatomie County Jail. Jailers participate in the day-to-day operations of the jail. Jailer participation involves ...

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Jail information

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How much do jail jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for jail in the United States is $24.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a jailer?

A jailer, also known as a correctional officer, is responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in a jail facility. Their duties include maintaining order, enforcing rules, supervising inmate activities, and ensuring the security and safety of both inmates and staff. Jailers may also conduct inspections, search for contraband, and assist in the transportation of inmates. The role requires strong communication, observation skills, and the ability to handle stressful situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a jail correctional officer?

To thrive as a Jail Correctional Officer, you need a high school diploma or GED, physical fitness, and a solid understanding of security procedures and inmate management. Familiarity with surveillance systems, incident reporting software, and emergency response protocols is typically required, along with completion of a training academy or state certification. Strong interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help officers manage inmate interactions and diffuse tense situations. These skills are essential for maintaining safety, enforcing rules, and ensuring the effective operation of correctional facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by correctional officers working in a jail setting?

Correctional officers in jails often encounter challenges such as managing inmate behavior, maintaining safety and security, and dealing with high-stress situations. They must remain vigilant at all times to prevent incidents and ensure the well-being of both inmates and staff. Additionally, working in a jail requires strong interpersonal skills to de-escalate conflicts and communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Teamwork is essential, as officers regularly collaborate with colleagues, medical staff, and administrative personnel to manage daily operations and respond to emergencies.

What is the difference between Jail vs Correctional Officer?

AspectJailCorrectional Officer
Work EnvironmentShort-term detention facilities, local jailsLong-term facilities, prisons, detention centers
ResponsibilitiesDetain and process inmates, maintain securitySupervise inmates, enforce rules, ensure safety
CredentialsHigh school diploma, background checkHigh school diploma, training, certification
EmployerLocal government, sheriff's officeState or federal correctional agencies

Jails are short-term detention facilities managed by local authorities, primarily for individuals awaiting trial or serving brief sentences. Correctional officers work in these facilities, overseeing inmate safety and security. While both roles involve detention, correctional officers may work in various correctional settings, including prisons, with additional responsibilities and training.

More about Jail jobs

What cities are hiring for Jail jobs?

Cities with the most Jail job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Jail jobs?

The most popular types of Jail jobs are:

What states have the most Jail jobs?

States with the most job openings for Jail jobs include:

Jail jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jail job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,907 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Jail Officer

Meherrin River Regional Jail

Alberta, VA • On-site

$52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 hours ago

Job description

Salary: $52,919.63 Annually
Location : 9000 Boydton Plank RD, Alberta, VA
Job Type: Full time
Job Number: 00003 B
Department: Security
Opening Date: 05/31/2018
Description
To coordinate, control and direct the movement of prisoners. Jail officers' intake, process, transport, and provide for the safety and security of inmates, staff members and the community. Officers may be assigned other duties specific to specialized areas of the jail as well.
Qualifications
  • Be a high school graduate or equivalent
  • Must be 18 years of age
  • Possess a valid Virginia or North Carolina driver's license
  • Have the ability to pass a physical examination and drug screening
  • Have the ability to pass an extensive criminal history, background check
  • Must complete special training as required by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, including use of firearms, first aid, chemical and electronic weapons systems, within twelve months of hire date
  • A telephone must be maintained (residence or cell phone)
  • Must be willing to be in an on-call status

Supplemental Information
  • The majority of positions will be shift work, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. or 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. (5:30 Briefing)
  • Starting Salary: Uncertified officers $52,919.63 - DCJS certified jail officers $55,332.76
  • Questions can be forwarded to Ms. Rhonda Fitchett at (434) 949-6700 ext. 211.
  • Currently we are offering a sign on bonus of $1,000.00 for Jail Officers.
  • The Meherrin River Regional Jail is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  • We use E-VERIFY for All New Hires.

BENEFITS PACKAGE:
  • HOLIDAYS: 13 paid holidays each year
  • VACATION: 8 hours per month, increasing with years of service
  • SICK LEAVE: 8 hours per month
  • RETIREMENT: Virginia Retirement System
  • LIFE INSURANCE: 2 times employee's annual salary
  • HEALTH INSURANCE: 3 different plans with Anthem, one of which is provided to the employee at no cost.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS OFFERED:
  • The Standard Insurance
  • Deferred Compensation 457 plan through Nationwide Retirement Services
  • Optional Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account for Health Care Services

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