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Jail Guard Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Spectrum Security Services

Detention Officer

Adelanto, CA · On-site

$45.04/hr

Requirements A highly qualified candidate for this position has prior experience guarding prisoners and/or detainees as a correctional officer, jailer, or detention officer. Minimum qualifications ...

SPECTRUM SECURITY SERVICES INC

CA · On-site

$41/hr

Requirements The highly qualified applicant has prior experience guarding prisoners and detainees as a correctional officer, jailer, or detention office, and has conducted transportation activities.

Calaveras, County of (CA)

Deputy Sheriff I

San Andreas, CA · On-site

$38.68 - $47.54/hr

... guarding prisoners, and performing desk, jailer and bailiff duties as required. Minimum Qualifications Ability to: Observe accurately and remember names, faces, numbers, incidents, and places ...

County of Santa Barbara

Custody Deputy

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$87K - $105K/yr

Inspects living areas of inmates to insure cleanliness, orderliness and compliance to jail ... guards prisoners at hospitals and other off-site locations as directed. Employment Standards ...

County of Calaveras, CA

Deputy Sheriff I

San Andreas, CA · On-site

$38.68 - $47.54/hr

... guarding prisoners, and performing desk, jailer and bailiff duties as required. Minimum Qualifications Ability to: Observe accurately and remember names, faces, numbers, incidents, and places ...

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How much do jail guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for jail guard in California is $16.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.27 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.

What are popular job titles related to Jail Guard jobs in California?

For Jail Guard jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Jail Guard jobs in California are:

Jail Guard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jail Guard job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,612 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Detention Officer

Spectrum Security Services

Adelanto, CA • On-site

$45.04/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Spectrum Security Services, Inc. would like to encourage you apply for the Detention Officer (DO) position. The DO provides security and support services for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The work involves guarding and caring for detainees that are under the jurisdiction of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Since this is a position of public trust, ICE requires a thorough background check.
Requirements
A highly qualified candidate for this position has prior experience guarding prisoners and/or detainees as a correctional officer, jailer, or detention officer.
Minimum qualifications include having the following:
  • Six months of experience as a security officer engaged in functions related to detaining civil or administrative detainees; OR A two-year college degree or related professional training, and six months of experience as a security officer; OR A minimum of one-year experience as a law enforcement officer or military police officer.;
  • A willingness to work on-call, accept sporadic assignments, and take challenging duties in environments such as, hospitals, psychiatric institutions, hotels, and federal facilities;
  • The ability to pass a medical examination: be free of serious physical ailments such as epilepsy, heart, lung, and skeletal defects, and mental health conditions;
  • No criminal record (NCIC records will be checked by DHS);
  • No illegal substance use history;
  • A good driving record without serious infractions;
  • A good credit history;
  • Be at least 21 years of age;
  • An active registration through BSIS as a Security Guard;
  • An active registration through BSIS to carry an Exposed Weapon;
  • Current valid certifications for training in First Aid, CPR, and Bloodborne Pathogens.

Department of Homeland Security Background Check:
This position requires that the candidate be determined to be suitable for a position of public trust by a DHS background investigation prior to employment.
Salary Description
$45.04 per hour plus benefits

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