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Jail Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Meherrin River Regional Jail

Jail Officer

Alberta, VA

$51K/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

$51K/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 ...

St. Clair County (IL)

IL · On-site

$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 ...

City of Midwest City

Jailor

Midwest City, OK · On-site

$21.58/hr

S. grad. or GED req. Must obtain yearly certification in CPR, First Aid, Jail school and Livescan & Intoxilyzer certification. Must possess valid OK. driver license & be insurable. This position is ...

City of Midwest City

Jailor

Midwest City, OK

$21.59/hr

S. grad. or GED req. Must obtain yearly certification in CPR, First Aid, Jail school and Livescan & Intoxilyzer certification. Must possess valid OK. driver license & be insurable. This position is ...

La Crosse County

JAILER

La Crosse, WI · On-site

$27.83 - $34.71/hr

Non-Exempt This is a specialized non-law enforcement position in the Jail Division of the Sheriff's Office. Employees work under close to moderate supervision in maintaining security in a modern jail ...

Lewis County

JAIL NURSE

Lowville, NY

$35.44 - $40/hr

Work is performed under the supervision of the Jail Physician. Does related work as required. Typical Work Activities Performs initial health assessment of new inmates including medical and surgical ...

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Jail information

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How much do jail jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Jail Correctional Officer, and why are they important?

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 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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,907 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Jail Officer

Jail Officer

Meherrin River Regional Jail

Alberta, VA

$51K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

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 $51,130.08 - DCJS certified jail officers $53,461.60 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

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