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Jail Guard Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Orange County

Jailer

Orange, TX · On-site

$22.03/hr

Job Title: Jailer Salary range: $22.03 Department: Sheriff's Office GUARDS INMATES IN A PENAL INSTITUTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH ESTABLISHED POLICIES, REGULATIONS, AND PROCEDURES. OTHER DUTIES ASSIGNED ...

HCSO

Crossing Guard

Center, TX

$21.06/hr

Compensation Range $21.06-$21.06 Starting Salary Range 21.06-21.06 Summary Ensure the safety of ... Jail at the time of appointment/employment (certified only). The duties and responsibilities on ...

Benton County, OR

Limited Duty Jail Deputy

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$21.58/hr

Salary: $21.58 Hourly Location : Corvallis, OR Job Type: Temporary Employee Job Number: 26-00088 ... Honor Guard, Peer Support Team, Field Training Deputy, Instructors (Firearms, Defensive Tactics ...

Autauga County, AL

CORRECTIONS DEPUTY

Prattville, AL · On-site

$1.4K - $2.4K/wk

Salary : $1,474.20 - $2,418.36 Biweekly Location : METRO JAIL AT 136 N. COURT ST. PRATTVILLE AL ... Guards and monitors inmates with an emphasis on well-being and security; maintains constant radio ...

City of Baytown

Detention Officer/Trainee

Baytown, TX · On-site

$20.08/hr

The Detention Officer/Trainee books in and releases prisoners; guards and maintains jail ... Minimum Qualifications Detention Officer Trainee - Starting salary $20.08/hr with no experience ...

Chesterfield County, VA

Deputy Sheriff

Chesterfield, VA · On-site

$56K/yr

... starting salary of $56,741. Applicants with prior Police, Sheriff's Office, DCJS Basic Jailor ... Must be at least 18 years of age if in the active military, Reserve, or Guard or at least 20 years ...

Chesterfield County

Deputy Sheriff

Chesterfield, VA · On-site

$56K/yr

... starting salary of $56,741. Applicants with prior Police, Sheriff's Office, DCJS Basic Jailor ... Must be at least 18 years of age if in the active military, Reserve, or Guard or at least 20 years ...

Lincoln County

Corrections Officer

Troy, MO · On-site

Salary: $21.25 Job Summary The Corrections Officer will be responsible for enforcing rules and ... Guards' prisoners at the jail, assuming responsibility for all needs of prisoners in their care ...

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Jail Guard Salary information

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How much do jail guard salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for jail guard salary 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 does a jail guard do?

A jail guard, also known as a correctional officer, is responsible for supervising inmates, maintaining security within the facility, and enforcing rules and regulations. They monitor inmate behavior, conduct searches, and respond to emergencies, often working in shifts that include nights and weekends. Proper training and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this role.

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

To thrive as a Jail Guard (Correctional Officer), you need a high school diploma or GED, strong observational abilities, and knowledge of security procedures. Familiarity with surveillance systems, incident reporting software, and defensive tactics certifications is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, and the ability to remain calm under pressure make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are critical for maintaining safety, order, and effective inmate management in correctional facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by jail guards in their daily work environment?

Jail guards often encounter challenges such as maintaining safety and order among inmates, managing stressful situations, and responding to emergencies. They must remain alert and exercise good judgment while balancing the enforcement of facility rules with treating inmates fairly and professionally. Additionally, jail guards frequently work as part of a team, requiring effective communication and collaboration with other staff members to ensure a secure and supportive environment.

What is the difference between Jail Guard Salary vs Correctional Officer Salary?

AspectJail Guard SalaryCorrectional Officer Salary
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic training
Work EnvironmentJails, detention centersPrisons, detention facilities
Employer & IndustryLocal jails, law enforcement agenciesState and federal prisons, law enforcement agencies

Both Jail Guards and Correctional Officers typically require similar credentials and work in detention facilities. The main difference lies in the specific environment—jails versus prisons—and the scope of their duties. Salary differences are often minimal but can vary based on location and experience.

How much do jail guards get paid in the US?

The average salary for jail guards in the US is around $40,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and facility. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while those with more experience or working in high-cost areas may earn higher wages. Many jail guards also receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What is the average salary of a jail guard?

The average salary of a jail guard, also known as a correctional officer, varies depending on location, experience, and the employing agency. In the United States, the median annual wage for correctional officers and jailers was about $47,920 as of May 2022, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries can range from around $36,000 for entry-level positions to over $70,000 for those with more experience or working in high-paying regions. Benefits and overtime opportunities may also affect overall compensation.
More about Jail Guard Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Jail Guard Salary jobs? Cities with the most Jail Guard Salary job openings:
What states have the most Jail Guard Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Jail Guard Salary jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Jail Guard Salary jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Jail Guard Salary jobs are:
Jail Guard Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jail Guard Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,907 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

City Detention Officer I - Court & Detention Services (Civil Service)

City of Dallas Texas

Dallas, TX • On-site

$21.67 - $23.60/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Dallas is Growing. Grow With Us.
Looking for more than just a job? The City of Dallas offers careers with purpose. With competitive benefits, growth opportunities, and a vibrant work culture,
we're committed to helping you thrive while you help our city flourish. Be part of a team that's committed to service, innovation, and community.
Job Summary
Entry level detention officer performing jail guard duties through processing and monitoring the adult prisoners in custody at the Dallas City Detention Center.
Job Description
Overview
The City Detention Officer I performs jail guard duties by processing and monitoring the prisoners in custody at the Dallas City Detention Center.
Essential Functions
1. Processes incoming and outgoing adult prisoners and escorts prisoners to and from assigned cells according to established procedures; searches prisoners for weapons and contraband; processes findings accordingly and maintains an inventory of prisoner personal property.
2. Books and fingerprints prisoners according to department guidelines and policies; determines the appropriate housing situation for prisoners entering the system.
3. Conducts visual and video-assisted dorm searches; conducts prisoner headcounts and facility inspections to ensure all prisoners are accounted for and the facility is secure; effectively operates metal detectors, fire extinguishers, live scan technology, and other systems, equipment, and software.
4. Monitors and observe prisoners' activities to ensure no disturbances occur; subdues and restrains aggressive or violent prisoners using approved methods to ensure the safety and security of staff and prisoners.
5. Assists and ensures that prisoners are afforded medical and mental health treatment as deemed necessary.
6. Maintains Detention Center logs and writes various reports related to specific incidents at the detention center.
7. Maintains cleanliness in cells.
8. Performs other work as needed or assigned.
Knowledge and Skills
  • Knowledge of state laws pertaining to jail facilities and detention of prisoners.
  • Knowledge of fingerprinting techniques.
  • Skill in de-escalation techniques and ability to handle angry or irate persons.
  • Expert ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to give clear instructions and follow established protocols.
  • Ability to draft simple instructions.
  • Ability to remain calm and in control in critical situations.
  • Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
  • Ability to maintain physical fitness and restrain prisoners.
  • Ability to work varying shifts and be available in a twenty-four/seven (24/7) operation, including weekends and holidays.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION
  • High school diploma or GED.

EXPERIENCE
  • One (1) year of relevant work experience in law enforcement in a municipal or county environment.

EQUIVALENCY
  • An associate degree (or higher) in a criminal justice, business, public administration, or social science field will meet the education and experience requirements.

LICENSES and CERTIFICATIONS
  • Valid driver's license with good driving record.
  • Attend and successfully complete internal training for Detention Officers, both in classroom and on tactical defense.
  • Attend and complete annual refresher Detention Officer training.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be 18 years of age.
  • Must pass an intensive background investigation and drug test.
  • No Felony or Class A Misdemeanor convictions.
  • No Class B Misdemeanor convictions within the last ten (10) years.
  • No family violence convictions.
  • Cannot currently be on deferred adjudication for any Felony, Class A, or Class BMisdemeanor
  • No outstanding citations or warrants.

Salary Range
$21.67 - $23.60
The salary listed on this job posting is the starting salary range; amount offered will depend upon qualifications.
City of Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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