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Jail Guard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Boone County Kentucky

Deputy Jailer

Burlington, KY · 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 ...

Acro

Security Guard

Phoenix, AZ

$50K - $75K/yr

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 ...

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Jail Guard information

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How much do jail guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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.

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 annually in higher-paying regions or with additional certifications. The job often requires training and adherence to safety protocols, with shift work being common.

How much do jail guards make per hour?

Jail guards, also known as correctional officers, typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the facility. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of this range, while experienced officers or those in high-cost areas can earn higher wages. Certifications and training can also influence pay rates.

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 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 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 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.
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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 1% As Needed, 78% 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.

Female Full-Time Sworn Jail Deputy, WPPA Union

Green County, WI

Monroe, WI • On-site

$52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Salary : $52,000.00 Annually
Location : 2827 6th Street, Monroe, WI
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2021-00429
Department: Sheriff
Opening Date: 07/23/2026
Closing Date: 8/10/2026 12:00 PM Central
Description/Summary
Full-time female jailer position. Starting pay is $25.00 hourly with shift differential for night shift. Position has Wisconsin Retirement Fund, and comprehensive County benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability and deferred compensation. Uniforms and gear are provided.
Extra duty pay for Jail Training Officer, WI DOJ Certified Instructor and Bilingual (Spanish).
Several benefit time options: vacation, personal, holiday, comp time, and sick leave.
Special assignment opportunities available in Honor Guard.
Incentive pay for physical readiness.
Experienced applicants may qualify for our Lateral Entry Program. Starting pay up to $29.41 depending on years of service.
The Jail Division works 12 hour shifts with every other Friday-Saturday-Sunday off.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Duties include maintaining safety, security and discipline in the Jail, intervening to stop disturbances, conducting searches and inspections, surveillance of all inmates, taking custody of and releasing inmates, and preparing reports and other paperwork.
Applicants must be available to work a rotating 12-hour schedule, which includes nights, weekends, and holidays. This schedule allows for every other Friday-Saturday-Sunday off.
Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
? Minimum age: 20
? U.S. citizen (per Wis. Stats. 66.0501(2))
? No unpardoned felony convictions, nor any offense that could be punished as a felony in Wisconsin
? No misdemeanor convictions for domestic violence as defined in 18 USC 921(a)(33) or domestic abuse under Wis. Stats. 968.075(1)(a)
? Must be of good character
? Must be free from any physical, emotional, or mental conditions that would negatively affect law enforcement duties
? Ability to meet physical performance requirements
? Vision correctable to 20/20
? Basic computer literacy
? Good written and verbal communication skills
? Self-motivated and have the ability to work in a team environment
? After probation, residency within 40 miles of the Green County Sheriff's Office
Education Requirements:
? High School Diploma or equivalent
? Once hired, must be capable of completing LESB Jailer certification and maintain appropriate 24-hour recertification requirements.
A complete job description is available on the Green County Sheriff's website:
Other
Application Process:
Successful applicants will be required to complete:
? A written test
? An oral exam and/or interview
? A background investigation
? A psychological evaluation
? A medical examination
These requirements may be waived for current employees performing related duties.
APPLY:Applications will be accepted until Monday, August 10, 2026 at noon.
Applicants must submit both the Green County Employment Application and the DJ-LE-330 Application, available on the Green County website: The DJ-LE-330 application should be attached to the application or emailed to Lindsay Dodge at
Equal Opportunity Employer:
The County of Green does not discriminate on the basis of handicapped status in employment or its programs, services, or activities. Green County requires a drug screening as part of the employment process, and a physical exam is required upon hiring.
302.41 Care of prisoners. Whenever there is a prisoner in any jail there shall be at least one person of the same sex on duty who is wholly responsible to the sheriff or keeper for the custody, cleanliness, food and care of such prisoner. History: 1975 c. 94; 1989 a. 31 s. 1665; Stats. 1989 s. 302.41.
This section does not conflict with the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act. Discussing a "bona fide occupational qualification" under Title
VII of the federal 1964 Civil Rights Act. Counties must comply with this section when they can do so without conflict with Title VII. 70
Atty. Gen. 202.
Green County offers a competitive benefits package to regular full-time employees including: Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance; Life Insurance, Long-term Disability Insurance, Short-Term Disability Insurance, Retirement through Wisconsin Retirement System, Flex Spending Account, 9 paid holidays, sick leave, personal days and vacation.

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