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Jail Guard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jailer/Dispatcher

Pipestone, MN ยท On-site

$26.40 - $35.63/hr

Hired by Sheriff/Jail Administrator with County Board approval. Subject to one (1) year ... Guards against suicides, escapes, and fights. Maintains all security devices and runs video ...

JOB SUMMARY Maintain the order, discipline and security of the County Jail. Assist in the ... Honor Guard, Peer Support Team, Drug Recognition Expert, Field Training Deputy, Instructors ...

Jailer/Dispatcher

Pipestone, MN ยท On-site

$26.40 - $35.63/hr

Hired by Sheriff/Jail Administrator with County Board approval. Subject to one (1) year ... Guards against suicides, escapes, and fights. Maintains all security devices and runs video ...

Deputy Jailer

Burlington, KY ยท On-site

$23.50/hr

Processing incoming inmates into the jail management system * Maintaining a telephone log ... Ability to guard duty at a hospital for an entire shift as required. * Ability to serve and file ...

LTE Dispatcher/Jailer

Shell Lake, WI ยท On-site

$22.14 - $24.14/hr

... jail systems. EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING REQUIRED : Some clerical experience, preferably including work as a Dispatcher or guard and completion of a standard high school course; and preferably ...

Full-Time Jailer

Shell Lake, WI ยท On-site

$22.12 - $24.14/hr

Maintains the jail, making security checks as necessary. Intake and release of inmates. Serves ... Some clerical experience, preferably including work as a guard and completion of a standard high ...

Prioritize the safety and well-being of others, both inside and outside a jail environment. * Treat all individuals with respect, regardless of background or socio-economic status. * Uphold integrity ...

Correction Officer

Kingston, NY ยท On-site

$28.34/hr

An employee in this class is responsible for guarding inmates and for ensuring that order, discipline and security are maintained in an assigned area of the County Jail. The employee may also have ...

Paraprofessional

Largo, FL ยท On-site

$15/hr

You will also need to pass an additional background check by Pinellas County Jail system. You will work with students and teacher in a classroom with a guard at all times. Small classroom size.

CORRECTIONS DEPUTY

Prattville, AL ยท On-site

$1.4K - $2.4K/wk

METRO JAIL AT 136 N. COURT ST. PRATTVILLE AL 36067, AL Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 0045 ... Guards and monitors inmates with an emphasis on well-being and security; maintains constant radio ...

CORRECTIONS DEPUTY

Prattville, AL ยท On-site

$17.55 - $28.79/hr

Issues jail clothing, sheets, blanket, and mattress upon entrance of a new inmate. Explains to ... Guards and monitors inmates with an emphasis on well-being and security; maintains constant radio ...

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Jail Guard information

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How much do jail guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 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 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.

Is being a jail guard hard?

Being a jail guard can be physically and mentally demanding due to the need to handle potentially dangerous situations, enforce rules, and maintain security. The job often requires strong communication skills, situational awareness, and adherence to safety protocols, with shifts that may include nights, weekends, and holidays.

How much do jail guards get paid in the US?

In the United States, jail guards, also known as detention officers or correctional officers, typically earn an average 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 in higher-paying regions or with additional certifications.

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 jail guards and what do they do?

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 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.

What is a guard at a jail called?

A guard at a jail is commonly called a correctional officer or detention officer. They are responsible for supervising inmates, maintaining security, and ensuring facility rules are followed, often requiring training and certification. The role involves working in a secure environment and enforcing jail policies.

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, 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.
More about Jail Guard jobs
What states have the most Jail Guard jobs? States with the most job openings for Jail Guard jobs include:
Infographic showing various Jail Guard job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 6% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,072 per year, or $16.9 per hour.
Jailer/Dispatcher

Jailer/Dispatcher

Pipestone County

Pipestone, MN โ€ข On-site

$26.40 - $35.63/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Salary: $26.40 - $35.63 Hourly
Location : Courthouse, 416 S Hiawatha Ave, Pipestone, MN
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-06
Department: Sheriff
Opening Date: 06/01/2026
Closing Date: 9/30/2026 11:59 PM Central
Job Posting
This position will remain open until filled.
CLASSIFICATION: Position is based on 12-hour shifts to cover 24 hours/day. A scheduling period of 160 hours in 28 day rotation. Covered under collective bargaining agreement between Pipestone County and L.E.L.S. FLSA non-exempt.
NATURE OF WORK: Position involves responsible security, treatment, and communications work in the County Sheriff's Department. Duties include maintaining LEC security, supervising the daily activities of residents, coordinating intake and release procedures for residents, receiving phone and radio calls and dispatching appropriate response personnel, coordinating ambulance attendant activities, and logging all LEC activities. Work is performed independently under the supervision of the Sheriff and/or Jail Administrator. Work is reviewed and evaluated in progress and/or upon completion.
AUTHORITY: Hired by Sheriff/Jail Administrator with County Board approval.
Subject to one (1) year probationary period. Subject to pre-employment criminal background check and driving record check.
LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENTS: Criminal Justice Information Systems (teletype) certification every two years. Sixteen hours/year of continuing education through Department of Corrections for jailer certification.
Certification to administer medications or proof of medication training from Public Health Nurse.
Minimum of a current advanced First Aid and CPR card.
RELATIONSHIPS: Reports to Sheriff/Jail Administrator as required.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school graduate/GED
  • Minimum of 18 years of age required.
  • Minimum of three years of previous work experience in dealing with the public; or acceptable combination of education and experience deemed acceptable by Pipestone County.
  • Minimum of current advanced First Aid and CPR; defibrillator and taser certification.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITY INCLUDE:
  • Able to communicate effectively in both verbal and written form.
  • Basic typing and computer skills;
  • Ability to make independent decisions, to deal effectively with public and inmate population; including sometimes violent or non-cooperative individuals; and to use sound judgment in emergency situations.
  • Accurate, dependable. Ability to respect and maintain client confidentiality.

SPECIFIC DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: Includes, but not limited to the following: To protect the legal rights of inmates, jailer/dispatchers assist Jail Inspector, Health Inspector, and Jail Administrator with jail inspections, explaining jail procedure and insuring compliance with DOC standards. These are accomplished through the following:
Correctional Officer Duties:
Essential Duties:
  • Supervises residents' daily routines. Performs regular status checks. Supervises the ordering and distribution of meals, provides medical services, maintains sanitary living conditions, monitors the presence of infectious diseases, escorts residents to scheduled appearances, and supervises visiting schedules and work release programs under Hubers' Law contracts. Purchases maintenance supplies and residents' personal items.
  • Establish and monitor Electronic Home Monitoring and Electronic Alcohol Monitoring.
  • Maintains security of LEC and residents through cell checks and searches. Guards against suicides, escapes, and fights. Maintains all security devices and runs video equipment.
  • Performs intake and discharge procedures, to include monitoring prisoner release date, work release schedules and payments, and updating records as necessary. Conducts interviews and searches, takes fingerprints and photos, collects and safeguards personal items. Determines if prisoner is being held on a charge appropriate for detention.
  • Determines proper cell assignment.
  • Processes all paperwork.
  • Prepares/maintains all necessary reports, records, files and logs as required.
  • Maintains residents' monetary accounts.
  • Collects and receipts bail, bond and Hubers' fee monies.
  • Assists prisoners in obtaining attorneys, bondsmen.
  • Testifies in court as required.
  • Female matrons are responsible for female resident care.
  • Observes health and safety precautions in the performance of all tasks.

Additional Duties:
  • Coordinates resident education and treatment programs with outside agencies.
  • Assists other law enforcement personnel in the apprehension, transport, and care of prisoners as required. May obtain urine samples to aid in determining blood alcohol/drug content of prisoners.
  • Performs other related work as required.

PST Duties:
Essential Duties:
  • Receives all telephone and radio calls, including 911 calls, general information calls, and radio traffic from all law enforcement personnel. Determines if a routine or emergency situation exists and dispatches the proper response personnel with speed and accuracy. Relays information and requests to and from response units and maintains constant contact to assist if further trouble develops.
  • Dispatches for all other entities contracted with the county.
  • Monitor numerous ARMER Radio Talkgroups for Law Enforcement and Emergency Response Agencies. Patch Talkgroups and link assisting agencies together for communication purposes when necessary.
  • Records times and mileages for emergency agencies.
  • Learns and operates all radio systems.
  • Documents all Sheriff's Office activities that occur throughout the shift; including but not limited to: phone calls, in and out, incidents, deputy activity.
  • Based on predetermined policy, controls access to private and confidential information in computer files, releases information to those who may appropriately receive it, and enters data according to CJIS criteria.
  • Run criminal histories for County Attorney, City Attorney, and Sheriff's Office and document reason for checks.
  • Prepares, types and maintains ICRs, teletype messages, information books, ticket and tag books, logs, and case card files.
  • Maintains and updates record system and warrant verification for BCA.
  • Controls the security of the LEC and checks security of other monitored buildings with the alarm system.
  • Conducts monthly civil defense equipment tests. Pages area sirens and local emergency officers and appropriate city officials in the event of inclement weather or national disaster.
  • Assists the public at the window by answering questions, , or referring to appropriate resources.
  • Observes health and safety precautions in the performance of all tasks.
  • Must obey all state, federal, and local laws.

Additional Duties:
  • Responds to media requests for information according to data privacy legislation.
  • Tests ambulance pagers daily. Confirms readiness of upcoming shifts and prepares standby shifts when necessary.
  • Performs other related work as required.

Access to Not Public Data
The incumbent may encounter not public data in the course of these duties. Any access to not public data should be strictly limited to accessing the data that are necessary to fulfill the employment responsibility. While data are being accessed, incumbent should take reasonable measures to ensure the not public data are not accessed by individuals without a work reason. Once the work reason to access the data is reasonably finished, incumbent must properly store the not public data according to the provisions Ch. 13 Minnesota Government Data Practices Act.
Mathematical and Computer Skills
Ability to calculate figures such as area, circumference and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry. Working knowledge of multiple computer environments. A high level of computer competency with standard data retrieval, record management and word processing software. Computer and typing experience is required. Knowledge of Windows, Microsoft Office, Internet, LETG system (in-house records system); Adobe Pro and Touchscreen systems for jail security and 911-dispatch system. Comprehensive knowledge of principles, techniques and practices of the approved Department of Corrections Standards for a jail facility and techniques and practices of the public safety communications system and the general knowledge of police fire and EMS operations.
Reasoning Ability
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
Ability to de-escalate stressful situations.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, controls, and keyboards; reach with hands and arms; talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, ability to adjust focus, depth perception, color perception, night vision, and peripheral vision.
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work 12 hour shifts in a confined area for a prolonged period, with no scheduled breaks. Shifts include days, nights, weekends and holidays. Ability to work unsupervised and in stressful situations. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned this classification. This is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties performed by personnel so classified.
This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee, and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and the requirements of the job change.
Pipestone County's benefits include
โ€ข Fully Funded Single Health Insurance - $1,700 annual HSA contribution
โ€ข Family Health Insurance Funding - $3,400 annual HSA contribution
โ€ข Many Optional Benefits
โ€ข Generous Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
โ€ข Retirement contributions - 10.25% employer match to your pension
Visit the Pipestone County benefits page for complete details.
01
List your work experience dealing with the public.
02
List any previously acquired law enforcement education/experience.
03
Describe any experience/training you have had with answering telephones or radios. Include length of experience. Provide name of contact person and phone number to verify the information.
04
Describe any experience/training you have had with computers, the types of projects completed. Include length of experience. Provide name of contact person and phone number to verify the information.
05
Describe any previous experience in which you have had to deal with an emergency situation or with hostile persons on a professional or responsible level. Describe your role in the situation. Provide name of contact person and phone number to verify the information.
06
Do you have a high school diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

08
Are you currently certified in CPR?
  • Yes
  • No

09
Are you currently certified in First Aid?
  • Yes
  • No

10
Are you currently a certified EMT?
  • Yes
  • No

11
If you are a Veteran or the spouse of a disabled or deceased Veteran and wish to claim Veteran's Preference, supply proof of your eligibility to claim a Veteran's Preference (DD214).
  • Honorably Discharged Veteran
  • Disabled Veteran
  • Spouse of Deceased Veteran
  • Spouse of Disabled Veteran
  • Do not wish to claim Veteran's Preferences

Required Question