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Jail Guard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sheriff's Office

Jail Officer

Hinesville, GA · On-site

Enforces jail rules and regulations for the inmate population. * Books and processes inmates ... Guards facility entrances and screens visitors. * Participates in the provision of meals ...

St. Clair County (IL)

IL

$49K - $77K/yr

... guarding of inmates during recreational activities, interviews, and visitations; the inspection of items and persons entering and leaving jail areas the quelling of disturbances; and the ...

County of Pottawatomie

Jailer Recruit

Westmoreland, KS · On-site

$21.06 - $31.83/hr

Description This position performs Jail duties ensuring the welfare of all inmates of the ... Supervise, guard, and protect inmates during court sessions, maintaining responsibility for the ...

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 ... guard, and protect inmates during court sessions, maintaining responsibility for the general ...

Pottawatomie County

Jailer Recruit

Westmoreland, KS · On-site

$21.06 - $31.83/hr

Description: This position performs Jail duties ensuring the welfare of all inmates of the ... guard, and protect inmates during court sessions, maintaining responsibility for the general ...

HCSO

Crossing Guard

Center, TX · On-site

$21.06/hr

Knowledge of basic safety procedures and practices relevant to being a school crossing guard ... Jail at the time of appointment/employment (certified only). The duties and responsibilities on ...

Brule County

Jailer

Chamberlain, SD

$20.13 - $21.63/hr

Jailers are responsible for guarding inmates in the County Detention Facility, some duties to include: taking prisoners into custody, recording prisoner information and maintain jail records ...

Boone County Fiscal Court

Deputy Jailer

Burlington, KY · On-site

Job Summary This is skilled work performed inside the county jail. An employee in this class is ... Ability to guard duty at a hospital for an entire shift as required. * Ability to serve and file ...

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How much do jail guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for jail guard in the United States is $16.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a jail guard?

Jail guards, also known as correctional officers, are responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in a jail or detention facility. Their duties include maintaining order, enforcing rules and regulations, supervising inmate activities, and ensuring the safety and security of inmates, staff, and the facility. Jail guards also perform routine inspections, respond to emergencies, and may assist in the transportation of inmates. They play a crucial role in the criminal justice system by helping to maintain a safe and controlled environment within correctional institutions.

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

To thrive as a Jail Guard, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, knowledge of correctional facility procedures, and completion of formal training or certification in corrections. Familiarity with security monitoring systems, incident reporting software, and restraint techniques is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and clear communication are crucial for managing inmate behavior and de-escalating tense situations. These skills are essential to maintain safety, enforce rules, and foster a secure environment for both staff and inmates.

What are some common challenges faced by jail guards in their day-to-day work?

Jail guards often encounter challenges such as managing difficult inmate behavior, responding to emergencies, and maintaining order in potentially volatile environments. The role requires quick decision-making, strong communication skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Regular collaboration with fellow guards and other facility staff is vital to ensure safety and effective operations. Adapting to shift work and maintaining professional boundaries with inmates are also important aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Jail Guard vs Correctional Officer?

AspectJail GuardCorrectional Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states require training certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; state-specific training and certification often required
Work EnvironmentJails, detention centers, short-term confinement facilitiesPrisons, correctional facilities, long-term confinement centers
Employer & IndustryLocal jails, detention centers, law enforcement agenciesState and federal prisons, correctional departments

Jail Guards and Correctional Officers perform similar roles in maintaining security and order within detention facilities. Jail Guards typically work in local jails and handle short-term detainees, while Correctional Officers often work in prisons with long-term inmates. Both roles require similar credentials and training, but their work environments and scope of responsibilities differ slightly.

How much do jail guards get paid in the US?

In the United States, jail guards, also known as correctional officers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $50,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the specific facility, with some earning over $60,000 with additional certifications or overtime.

How much do jail guards make a year?

Jail guards, also known as correctional officers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $50,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the facility's size, with additional benefits often included in compensation packages.

What does it take to be a jail guard?

To become a jail guard, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and complete training in security procedures and emergency response. Physical fitness, good communication skills, and the ability to handle stressful situations are also important for this role.
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What states have the most Jail Guard jobs?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Jail Guard jobs are:

Jail Guard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jail Guard job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,072 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Jail Officer

Sheriff's Office

Hinesville, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description:

JOB SUMMARY


The Liberty County Sheriff's Office is accepting applications for a Jail Officer. This position provides security for inmates in the Liberty County Jail.


MAJOR DUTIES

  1. Enforces jail rules and regulations for the inmate population.
  2. Books and processes inmates.
  3. Inspects the conditions of locks, windows, grills, doors, and gates at the jail facility.
  4. Operates control room equipment to manage the locking and unlocking of doors.
  5. Guards facility entrances and screens visitors.
  6. Participates in the provision of meals, medications, mail, and commissary items to inmates.
  7. Arranges daily schedules for inmates, including work assignments, family visits, and medical visits.
  8. Manages and monitors inmate activities in cell blocks, recreation yards, and other areas.
  9. Inspects inmate mail for contraband.
  10. Searches inmates and cells for weapons, drugs, and other contraband.
  11. Conducts fire, safety, and sanitation inspections.
  12. Conducts roll call and headcounts.
  13. Records and maintains inmate records.
  14. Prepares required reports.
  15. Assists in the maintenance of jail supply inventories.
  16. Transports inmates to and from court, medical, and other appointments.
  17. Performs related duties.


KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

  1. Knowledge of jail policies and procedures.
  2. Knowledge of Georgia laws and regulations governing jail operations.
  3. Knowledge of the constitutional rights of inmates.
  4. Knowledge of emergency operations procedures.
  5. Knowledge of medical screening practices.
  6. Knowledge of CPR and basic first aid.
  7. Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.
  8. Skill in the use of communications equipment and other standard and specialized equipment.
  9. Skill in the analysis of problems and the development and implementation of solutions.
  10. Skill in the supervision of inmates.
  11. Skill in oral and written communication.


COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

  • The work consists of related detention officer duties. The necessity of responding to potentially dangerous situations contributes to the complexity of the position.
  • The purpose of this position is to participate in the management and security of inmates at the county jail. Successful performance helps ensure the safety and security of inmates, personnel, and visitors.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • The work involves tasks such as walking, standing, stooping, climbing stairs, occasionally lifting heavy objects, climbing ladders, distinguishing between shades of color, and utilizing the sense of smell.  This position should be considered physically demanding.
  • The work is typically performed in a detention facility and you should expect to be in direct contact with inmates regularly. The work requires the use of specialized equipment and protective devices.

BENEFITS


Liberty County government offers a generous benefits package to full-time permanent employees which includes:  

  • 401(a) retirement plan with employer match 
  • 13 paid holidays 
  • Paid vacation and sick leave 
  • Low-cost health dental and vision insurance 
  • Free term life insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 
  • Health & wellness program
Requirements:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in a course of study related to the occupational field is preferred; high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Some experience in a related field is preferred but not required.
  • Possession of a valid Georgia Class C driver’s license.
  • Ability to meet current requirements set forth by the Peace Officer Standards and Training Council for the State of Georgia.

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