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Jail Guard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Correction Officer

Kingston, NY · 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 ...

As a Security Guard, you will serve and safeguard clients in a range of industries such as Commercial Real Estate, Healthcare, Education, Government and more. Hiring for a Security Officer Jailer ...

PA · On-site

$20/hr

It is open to Veterans, Transitioning Military, National Guard Members, Military Spouses, Wounded Warriors, and their Caregivers. If you have the required skill set, education requirements, and ...

Security Officer Jailer - Unarmed Join the world's leading global security company ... As a Security Guard, you will serve and safeguard clients in a range of industries such as ...

CORRECTIONS DEPUTY

Prattville, AL · 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 ...

Jailer

La Porte, TX · On-site

$21.80 - $27.24/hr

JAILER Category: Full-Time Status: Open Hourly Rate: Min. $21.799 - Mid. $27.249 Published ... safe guards that property. Cares for detainees; feeds and checks on each detainee's welfare at ...

Jailer

La Porte, TX · On-site

$21.80 - $27.24/hr

JAILER Category: Full-Time Status: Open Hourly Rate: Min. $21.799 - Mid. $27.249 Published ... safe guards that property. Cares for detainees; feeds and checks on each detainee's welfare at ...

The Detention Officer/Trainee books in and releases prisoners; guards and maintains jail. Demonstrates interpersonal skills. Able to deal effectively with the public and other employees. Able to ...

As a Security Guard, you will serve and safeguard clients in a range of industries such as Commercial Real Estate, Healthcare, Education, Government and more. Hiring for a Security Officer Jailer ...

Showing results 41-60

Jail Guard information

See salary details

$10

$16

$22

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.
More about Jail Guard jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Jail Guard jobs? The top employers for Jail Guard jobs are:
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 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.

Security Jail Processor and Inmate Transporter

Allied Universal

Signal Hill, CA • On-site

$22/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Allied Universal rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 2,556 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 116 rated security


Job description

Overview

Allied Universal®, North America’s leading security and facility services company, offers rewarding careers that provide you a sense of purpose. While working in a dynamic, welcoming, and collaborative workplace, you will be part of a team that contributes to a culture that positively impacts the communities and customers we serve.


Job Description

Life doesn’t always follow a fixed schedule. That’s why we created the Security Officer – Part Time Enhanced position: a flexible, dependable option for individuals looking to supplement their income, gain hands-on experience, or work toward a full-time career with the industry leader.

As a Security Jail Processor and Inmate Transporter in Signal Hill, CA, this role is designed to provide reliable, consistent hours at an assigned site with the flexibility for you to earn more by picking-up additional shifts when it works for you.


Pay Rate: $22.00 / Hour

Job Schedule:

DayTimeWed03:00 PM - 11:00 PMThur03:00 PM - 11:00 PM

How This Role Works:

  • Fixed-Shift Commitment (“Anchor Shifts”): You will be hired for a designated site and weekly shift that serves as your reliable base schedule. This assignment requires a six (6) month commitment.
  • Earn More, Claim-A-Shift Program: In addition to your fixed shift, you may pick-up extra shifts through our scheduling platform, allowing you to increase earnings and gain experience across multiple sites. Work part-time hours this week and full-time the next. It’s all up to you.

This role is ideal for candidates seeking part-time employment with flexibility, income stability, and opportunities to build-up to a full-time schedule of up to 40 hours per week; always with the option to scale back when needed.


Responsibilities:

  • Provide customer service to visitors, employees, and members of the public by carrying out security-related procedures, site-specific policies, and, when appropriate, emergency response activities.
  • Respond to incidents, public concerns, and critical situations in a calm, professional, problem-solving manner, escalating matters according to established procedures.
  • Conduct regular and random patrols of government facilities, public areas, parking locations, and perimeter areas to help identify and report unusual conditions or unauthorized activity.
  • Monitor access points and observe visitor activity in accordance with site-specific policies, assisting with directions and maintaining accurate activity records as required.
  • Communicate professionally with site personnel, public service representatives, emergency responders, and Allied Universal leadership regarding incidents and security-related concerns.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Possess an armed guard card or license.
  • Have at least 6 months of armed security-related, law enforcement, or military experience.
  • A valid driver’s license is required in accordance with Allied Universal driver policy requirements.
  • Be at least 21 years of age for armed roles.
  • Possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • As a condition of employment, applicants will be subject to a background investigation in accordance with all federal, state, and local laws.
  • Allied Universal will consider qualified applications with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable laws.
  • As a condition of employment, applicants will be subject to a drug screen to the extent permitted by law.
  • Participate in industry-specific security training programs.
  • Licensing requirements are subject to state and/or local laws and regulations and may be required prior to employment.
  • A valid driver’s license will be required for driving positions only.

Why Join Us:

  • Smart Tools: Access to our exclusive technology to view and claim additional shifts to earn more.
  • Career Growth: Get paid training and access to career growth opportunities.
  • Financial Benefits: Participate in our retirement savings plan to invest in your future.
  • Exclusive Perks: Enjoy discounts on top brands and services through our Perks Program.

PPO 14417


Closing

Allied Universal® is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, age, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status or relationship/association with a protected veteran, or any other basis or characteristic protected by law. For more information: www.aus.com.

If you have difficulty using the online system and require an alternate method to apply or require an accommodation, please contact our local Human Resources department. To find an office near you, please visit: www.aus.com/offices.


Requisition ID
2026-1650441

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About Allied Universal

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Allied Universal® is a leading security and facility services company. We provide proactive security services and cutting-edge smart technology to deliver evolving, tailored solutions that allow our clients to focus on their core business. Our excellence starts with our local leadership and local presence. Operating in more than 90 countries, our global workforce of approximately 800,000 people. Employees help to deliver our promise globally and locally: keeping people safe so our customers and communities can thrive. As we build the world's best services company, we continue to expand our footprint and infrastructure on a global and local level. In North America, we operate our business under the existing Allied Universal brand, and our international business operates under the G4S brand.

Industry

Investigation and physical security services, chemical manufacturing and real estate

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Ana, CA, US