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Jail Guard Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

$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 ...

West Virginia

Correctional Officer 2

Charleston, WV · On-site

$32K - $56K/yr

... Guard service may be included as military service using the Division of Personnel's internal ... Huttonsville Correctional Center and Jail, Mount Olive Correctional Complex and Jail, Western ...

Sevier County, TN

Corrections Officer

Sevierville, TN · On-site

$45K - $51K/yr

Salary: $45,384.00 - $51,056.00 Annually Location : Sevierville, TN Job Type: Full-Time Job Number ... guard in a county jail or workhouse shall: Be at least eighteen (18) years of age; Be a citizen of ...

Houston County

Detention Officer

Perry, GA

$23.89/hr

Ability to complete GA POST Basic Jail Officer Training Course; Must be 21 years of age by ... Performs tower guard duties to assure security of facility; monitors television screens; operates ...

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How much do jail guard salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 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 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.

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 make?

Jail guards, also known as correctional officers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $50,000, though this can vary based on location, experience, and facility type. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced officers or those working in high-cost areas can earn over $60,000 annually. The job often requires training and certification, and officers work in secure environments with shift schedules.

Is being a jail guard hard?

Being a jail guard can be challenging due to the need to handle potentially dangerous situations, enforce rules, and maintain security in a high-stress environment. The job often requires strong communication skills, physical fitness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Shift work and exposure to difficult circumstances are common aspects of the role.

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 at a correctional officer academy. Physical fitness, good communication skills, and the ability to handle stressful situations are also important for this role.
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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 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,907 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Jail Officer

Liberty County Sheriff's Office

Hinesville, GA • On-site

$21.99/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
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.

Salary Description
Starting at $21.99 per hour

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