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Jail Commander Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prince William County, VA

Jail Officer

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$66K - $116K/yr

... for Jail Officers. In this role, you will protect behind the walls as you serve the community ... We seek candidates with; the ability to think and act quickly in emergency situations, the command ...

Beaver County

Deputy Sheriff I

Beaver, UT · On-site

SUPERVISION RECEIVED Works under the close supervision of a Lieutenant, Jail Commander, or Patrol/Corrections Sergeant assigned chain of command. SUPERVISION EXERCISED None ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Beaver County

Deputy Sheriff I

Beaver, UT · On-site

$28.66/hr

SUPERVISION RECEIVED Works under the close supervision of a Lieutenant, Jail Commander, or Patrol/Corrections Sergeant assigned chain of command. SUPERVISION EXERCISED None ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Beaver County

Deputy Sheriff I

Beaver, UT · On-site

SUPERVISION RECEIVED Works under the close supervision of a Lieutenant, Jail Commander, or Patrol/Corrections Sergeant assigned chain of command. SUPERVISION EXERCISED None ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Finney County, KS

Jail Deputy

Garden City, KS · On-site

$19/hr

This position is under the general supervision of a Jail Sergeant and/or his/her designee ... Knowledge of disciplinary action procedure and chain of command. * Ability to maintain ...

Hays County

Facility Maintenance Lead

San Marcos, TX · On-site

$47K - $49K/yr

Provides routine budgetary and status reports to Jail command staff through the Lead Facility Maintenance Ensures weekly maintenance reports are submitted to Jail command staff through the Lead ...

Washington County, OR

Lateral Jail Deputy

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$41.22 - $52.64/hr

Jail Deputies supervise those in custody and maintain jail security; admit, transport, and control ... STEP 6: Commander Interview and Conditional Job Offer. (Job offer conditional based on passing step ...

Wacounty

Lateral Jail Deputy

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$41.22 - $52.64/hr

Jail Deputies supervise those in custody and maintain jail security; admit, transport, and control ... STEP 6: Commander Interview and Conditional Job Offer. (Job offer conditional based on passing step ...

Fulton County, GA

CHIEF JAILER

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$135K - $183K/yr

... jail operations, including progressive supervisory or command-level responsibilities. • Demonstrated experience managing large-scale operations and personnel. • Comprehensive knowledge of ...

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Jail Commander information

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How much do jail commander jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for jail commander 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 jail commander?

A Jail Commander is a senior law enforcement official responsible for overseeing the daily operations, security, and administration of a jail or detention facility. They manage staff, ensure the safety and well-being of inmates, and make sure the facility complies with legal standards and regulations. Jail Commanders also develop policies, coordinate inmate programs, and work closely with other law enforcement agencies. Their role is crucial for maintaining order and ensuring the facility runs efficiently and safely.

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

To thrive as a Jail Commander, you need strong leadership abilities, knowledge of corrections regulations, and experience in law enforcement, often supported by a degree in criminal justice and relevant supervisory experience. Familiarity with jail management systems, incident reporting tools, and compliance with state and federal standards is essential. Excellent communication, crisis management, and decision-making skills help foster a safe and effective facility environment. These competencies are crucial for ensuring security, legal compliance, and positive staff and inmate relations within correctional facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by a jail commander, and how can they be addressed?

Jail Commanders often face challenges such as managing staff shortages, ensuring inmate safety, and maintaining compliance with evolving regulations. Balancing administrative duties with emergency response can also be demanding. To address these challenges, strong leadership, clear communication with staff, ongoing training, and proactive policy development are essential. Collaborating closely with other law enforcement agencies and investing in staff development can further enhance operational efficiency and morale.

What is the difference between Jail Commander vs Jail Supervisor?

AspectJail CommanderJail Supervisor
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or GED, with some positions preferring additional certifications or experience in correctionsUsually requires a high school diploma or GED, with some roles needing prior correctional experience
Work EnvironmentOversees entire jail facility operations, managing staff and security protocolsManages daily activities of jail staff and inmates, ensuring safety and compliance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in correctional facilities, law enforcement agencies, and detention centersCommonly employed within correctional institutions and detention centers

The Jail Commander holds a higher leadership role, overseeing the entire facility, while the Jail Supervisor focuses on daily operations and staff management. Both roles require knowledge of correctional procedures, but the Jail Commander typically has broader responsibilities and authority.

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What states have the most Jail Commander jobs?

States with the most job openings for Jail Commander jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Jail Commander jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Jail Commander jobs are:

Jail Commander jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jail Commander job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,907 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Regional Jail Sergeant

Western Tidewater Regional Jail

Suffolk, VA • On-site

$68K - $84K/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

WESTERN TIDEWATER REGIONAL JAIL
2402 Godwin Boulevard, Suffolk, Virginia 23434
Telephone: (757) 539-3119 Ext. 555
Sign On Bonus up to $4,000 Available!
  • Looking for a career with job security?
  • Do you want to make a difference in the lives of others?
  • Looking to make a good living, become more confident, and be a role model of strength and respect?
  • Is your work/life balance a problem?
  • Would you enjoy working only 13 days a month in a full-time position with awesome benefits?
  • Want to have access to affordable health, dental, vision amp; other benefits, including paid leave?
  • Would you like to retire at age 50 after only working 25 years?
  • Are you currently a DCJS certified Jail Officer?

IF YOU ANSWERED YES TO THESE QUESTIONS, THEN IT’S TIME YOU JOIN OUR TEAM OF JAIL OFFICERS!

Job Description
The Jail Officer is responsible for maintaining the safety and security of the facility to include all inmates, personnel, and the public.
  • Maintains custody, care, control, and security of inmates, staff, and equipment within a regional jail.
  • Directs and interacts with inmates on a constant basis while supervising daily activity and ensuring order and compliance with established rules and regulations.
  • Performs security rounds, inspects housing units, continuously monitors special status inmates, and controls doors throughout the facility in accordance with policy and standards.
  • Reviews shift pass-down and inmate information necessary for a safe and smooth shift transition.
  • Performs headcounts, feeding, and resolves inmate issues.
  • Escorts inmates to and from various locations inside and outside of the facility when necessary.
  • Enforces rules in a firm, fair, and consistent manner.
  • Provides assistance and direction to inmates on issues, procedures, behavior, and schedules.
  • Accurately prepares, maintains, and updates computerized logs and detailed reports.
  • Responds and takes action in emergency situations to include defending self and others, performs basic lifesaving activities, and provides back up support for other officers when necessary.
  • Notifies medical staff of any health conditions or symptoms with urgency when necessary.
  • Provides coaching and guidance to staff members to ensure operations are in accordance with established policy.
  • Participates in daily muster meetings to exchange critical Passdown information with staff.
  • Facilitates daily security scanning/searching of staff and their belongings to ensure safety.
  • Acts as the Watch Commander in the absence of the Lieutenant.
Benefits
Paid training and promotional opportunities.
Membership in the Virginia Retirement System with the Hazardous Duty Supplement.
Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Flexible Spending Account, Legal Resources, Life Insurance
YMCA Membership at highly discounted rates
Paid time off.
Activities Requiring Physical Fitness
1. Defensive Tactics Program: kneeling, bending, handcuffing, squatting, etc.
2. Firearms Training: kneeling, running, bending, pull pistol trigger with strong hand and off hand, holding pistol with two hands, using off hand to assist with reloads and immediate action drills (malfunctions)
3. Must be able to defend self and other when necessary.
4. Must be able to occasionally sit and work on a computer.
5. Must be able to walk extensively, run occasionally, and climb stairs.
6. Must be available to work 12-hour rotating shifts, day or night. Jail Officers are essential personnel subject to recall at any time and are required to report during emergencies and/or inclement weather events.
7. Must be able to work in a high stress environment with constant noise and occasional foul odors.

Minimum Qualifications
Must be 18 years or older with a high school diploma from an accredited high school or GED. A valid driver’s license is required. Basic basic computer skills are required. DMV transcript and criminal background checks must be acceptable. MUST BE CURRENTLY DCJS CERTIFIED TO WORK IN A REGIONAL JAIL.

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