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Jail House Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Counselor

North Billerica, MA · On-site

$26.44/hr

Billerica, MA - Middlesex Jail & House of Correction Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm Pay Rate: $26.44/hour Benefits: * Health, dental, vision insurance/additional voluntary insurances

Detention Officer

Carrollton, TX

$38K - $53K/yr

Performs a variety of activities in support of jail house operations, which may include: washing and issuing blankets, shoes, and mats; preparing simple meals for prisoners; escorting prisoners to ...

Jailer

Kennesaw, GA · On-site

$52K - $81K/yr

The Gwinnett County Jail is classified as a Direct Supervision Pretrial Detention Center and has a maximum capacity to house 2,600 inmates. The Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office consists of 3 ...

Detention Shift Supervisor

Carrollton, TX

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Supervises jail house operations such as washing and issuing blankets, shoes, and mats; preparing simple meals for prisoners; prisoner escorting; and monitoring video surveillance. * Supervises ...

Detention Officer

Carrollton, TX · On-site

$21.57/hr

Performs a variety of activities in support of jail house operations, which may include: washing and issuing blankets, shoes, and mats; preparing simple meals for prisoners; escorting prisoners to ...

... Jail & House of Correction under the jurisdiction of the Essex County Sheriff's Department. This role is responsible for organizing, managing, and providing access to a wide range of informational ...

Registered Nurse

Billerica, MA · On-site

$70K/yr

The MSO provides 24-hour care to inmates and detainees at Middlesex Jail & House of Correction in Billerica, MA. Applicants must be able to work on any shift (7:00AM-3:00PM; 3:00PM-11:00PM; and 11 ...

... Jail & House of Correction under the jurisdiction of the Essex County Sheriff's Department. This role is responsible for organizing, managing, and providing access to a wide range of informational ...

The MSO provides 24-hour care to inmates and detainees at Middlesex Jail & House of Correction in Billerica, MA. Applicants must be able to work on any shift (7:00AM-3:00PM; 3:00PM-11:00PM; and 11 ...

Registered Nurse

Billerica, MA · On-site

$68K/yr

The MSO provides 24-hour care to inmates and detainees at Middlesex Jail & House of Correction in Billerica, MA. Applicants must be able to work on any shift (7:00AM-3:00PM; 3:00PM-11:00PM; and 11 ...

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Jail House information

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$14

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How much do jail house jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for jail house 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.

Can I be a correctional officer with no experience?

Correctional officers typically do not need prior experience, as training is provided after hiring. Most agencies require a high school diploma or equivalent, background checks, and passing a training academy. Having strong communication skills and the ability to handle stressful situations is important for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Jailhouse Correctional Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Correctional Officer, you need a strong understanding of criminal justice, security procedures, and crisis management, typically supported by a high school diploma and completion of a corrections training program. Familiarity with surveillance systems, incident reporting software, and security technologies is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and effective communication help in managing inmate behavior and maintaining safety. These skills are vital for ensuring order, safety, and lawful operations within correctional facilities.

What is a jailhouse and what does working in one involve?

A jailhouse, commonly referred to as a jail, is a secure facility used to detain individuals who are awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences. Working in a jailhouse typically involves roles such as correctional officers, administrative staff, and support personnel. Employees are responsible for maintaining the safety and security of inmates, enforcing rules, and ensuring the proper operation of daily routines. The job can be demanding and requires strong communication, observation, and conflict resolution skills. Training and certification are usually required for most positions within a jailhouse.

Is it hard to get a job if you go to jail?

For jobs related to jail work, such as correctional officers or jail staff, having a criminal record can make it more difficult to be hired, as background checks are standard. Employers often require clean records or consider the nature and time since the offense, and some positions may have legal restrictions or require additional certifications. Experience, skills, and rehabilitation efforts can influence employment prospects in this field.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by correctional officers working in a jail house environment?

Correctional officers in a jail house environment often encounter unique challenges such as managing inmate behavior, maintaining safety and security, and handling high-stress situations. They must regularly conduct security checks, diffuse conflicts, and enforce rules while balancing empathy and authority. The work can be physically and emotionally demanding, and officers must be vigilant and adaptable to changing situations. Teamwork with other officers and coordination with medical, administrative, and legal personnel is crucial for maintaining a safe and effective facility.

How much do you get paid in Harris County jail?

Jail officers or detention officers in Harris County typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $15 to $20, depending on experience and shift. Salaries can vary based on certifications, overtime, and seniority, with some positions offering additional benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What are jail jobs called?

Jail jobs are typically called correctional officer, detention officer, or prison officer positions. These roles involve supervising inmates, maintaining security, and ensuring facility safety, often requiring training and certification in correctional procedures.

What is the difference between Jail House vs Correctional Officer?

AspectJail HouseCorrectional Officer
Work EnvironmentDetention facilities, jailsPrisons, detention centers
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, background checkHigh school diploma or GED, training certification
Employer & Industry UsageLocal law enforcement agenciesState or federal correctional institutions

Both Jail House staff and Correctional Officers work in detention settings, but Jail Houses typically refer to local jails with short-term detainees, while Correctional Officers often work in larger prisons with long-term inmates. The roles overlap in security and inmate supervision, but the scope and environment differ slightly.

More about Jail House jobs
What cities are hiring for Jail House jobs? Cities with the most Jail House job openings:
What states have the most Jail House jobs? States with the most job openings for Jail House jobs include:
Infographic showing various Jail House job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Locum Tenens, 7% Full Time, and 86% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,907 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Counselor

$26.44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Location: Billerica, MA - Middlesex Jail & House of Correction
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm
Pay Rate:  $26.44/hour

Benefits:

  • Health, dental, vision insurance/additional voluntary insurances
  • Company-paid life insurance/employee assistance programs
  • Generous paid time off accrual
  • Tuition reimbursement/loan repayment options
  • 401k with company match up to 7%!
  • Discounts on wide array of services/entertainment nationwide

The Counselor is responsible for:

  • Providing education to offenders according to the approved curriculum and completes all required documentation in the case record.
  • Participating in a multi-disciplinary team meeting on a weekly basis or as directed.

Qualifications:

  • Associate’s degree or equivalent experience in criminal justice, human services, education or closely related field required
  • CADC or LADC preferred