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Jail Commander Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DETENTION OFFICER

Olmito, TX

$35K - $49K/yr

Under the direction of the Commander; Adheres to rules and regulations and Cameron County Jailer's Policy Plan; Reports mechanical failures in cell area to proper personnel; Reports all incidents ...

DETENTION OFFICER

Olmito, TX · On-site

$39K/yr

Under the direction of the Commander; Adheres to rules and regulations and Cameron County Jailer's Policy Plan; Reports mechanical failures in cell area to proper personnel; Reports all incidents ...

DETENTION OFFICER

Olmito, TX · On-site

$39K/yr

Under the direction of the Commander; Adheres to rules and regulations and Cameron County Jailer's Policy Plan; Reports mechanical failures in cell area to proper personnel; Reports all incidents ...

Corrections Officer

Foley, AL · On-site

$42K/yr

Reports to the Command Sergeant. JOB FUNCTIONS Essential Functions Ensures the safety and security of the jail and everyone in it. Books/processes new inmates, which includes fingerprinting and ...

Corrections Officer

Foley, AL · On-site

$42K/yr

Reports to the Command Sergeant. JOB FUNCTIONS Essential Functions * Ensures the safety and security of the jail and everyone in it. * Books/processes new inmates, which includes fingerprinting and ...

Correctional Officer

Juneau, WI · On-site

$28.08 - $30.94/hr

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, conducts inmate counts, and conducts ... Ability and skill to manage, direct, and command people in such a manner as to obtain maximum ...

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, conducts inmate counts, and conducts ... Ability and skill to manage, direct, and command people in such a manner as to obtain maximum ...

Correctional Officer

Juneau, WI · On-site

$28.08 - $30.94/hr

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, conducts inmate counts, and conducts ... Ability and skill to manage, direct, and command people in such a manner as to obtain maximum ...

Correctional Officer-Part time

Juneau, WI · On-site

$28.08 - $30.94/hr

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, conducts inmate counts, and conducts ... Ability and skill to manage, direct, and command people in such a manner as to obtain maximum ...

Correctional Officer-Part time

Juneau, WI · On-site

$28.08 - $30.94/hr

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, conducts inmate counts, and conducts ... Ability and skill to manage, direct, and command people in such a manner as to obtain maximum ...

... Command Center and the Parole Office. Beyond active warrant tracking, this role serves a vital ... Huttonsville Correctional Center and Jail, Mount Olive Correctional Complex and Jail, Western ...

Jail Officer certification * FEMA/Incident Command training * PREA training * ACA Standards familiarity * NCCHC familiarity NOTE: This position is unclassified and not subject to Civil Service Rules ...

Jail Officer certification * FEMA/Incident Command training * PREA training * ACA Standards familiarity * NCCHC familiarity NOTE: This position is unclassified and not subject to Civil Service Rules ...

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Jail Commander information

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How much do jail commander jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 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 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 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 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.

What is the highest paying job in corrections?

In corrections, the highest paying roles are typically executive positions such as Director of Corrections or Warden, which oversee multiple facilities and departments. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the size and location of the facility.

Can I become a correctional officer at 40?

Yes, many correctional agencies accept applicants into correctional officer positions at age 40 or older, provided they meet other requirements such as background checks, physical fitness, and education. Age limits vary by jurisdiction, but experience and maturity can be advantageous in the role.

What does a jail commander do?

A jail commander oversees the daily operations of a correctional facility, manages staff, enforces security protocols, and ensures the safety and well-being of inmates and staff. They typically coordinate with law enforcement, handle administrative tasks, and ensure compliance with legal and safety standards.

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.

Why do so many correctional officers quit?

Correctional officers often leave the job due to high stress, safety concerns, long and irregular hours, and the emotional toll of working in a challenging environment. Job burnout and limited opportunities for advancement can also contribute to high turnover rates in correctional facilities.
More about Jail Commander jobs
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:
Infographic showing various Jail Commander job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,907 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
DETENTION OFFICER

$35K - $49K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

DETENTION OFFICER


PAY PLAN: 113 - $ 39,562.00 per year


QUALIFICATIONS:

High School graduate or its equivalent (GED), and any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities is preferred. Must have TCOLE Jailer Certification or must be able to get the TCOLE Jailer Certification within 12 months after employment. Applicant must also be able to read, write, speak and understand English clearly and precisely; Must have no prior felony court convictions or Class A or B misdemeanor offenses; Able to work a twelve (12) hour shift; Must have a current and valid Texas Driver's License.


DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:

Under the direction of the Commander; Adheres to rules and regulations and Cameron County Jailer's Policy Plan; Reports mechanical failures in cell area to proper personnel; Reports all incidents involving inmates to shift sergeant, lieutenant, Jail Administrator, Chief Deputy or Sheriff; Maintenance daily log of shift activities at respective assigned area. This position is subject to a one (1) year probationary period prior to Civil Service eligibility; Must submit to the Civil Service Detention Officer Exam.


BENEFITS:

Cameron County Offers Excellent Fringe Benefits, Including: Health and Life Insurance Protection, Sick and Annual Leave, Retirement System and Paid Holidays. Cameron County has a mandatory direct deposit payroll program.


AA/EEO/MFD EMPLOYER