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Jail Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IL

$49K - $77K/yr

... inspection of items and persons entering and leaving jail areas the quelling of disturbances; and the transportation of persons to and from court appearances. Supervises tenders in the service of ...

Jail Deputy

Garden City, KS · On-site

$19/hr

Maintain jail security by completing cell checks, random prisoner counts, monitoring cell areas on surveillance equipment, cell inspections, completing lock down procedures, and using physical force ...

Maintain jail security by completing cell checks, random prisoner counts, monitoring cell areas on surveillance equipment, cell inspections, completing lock down procedures, and using physical force ...

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, conducts inmate counts, and conducts security inspections and searches of inmates and inmate's quarters for contraband and any unauthorized ...

Detention Deputy I

Newton, KS · On-site

$21.63 - $24.48/hr

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, protects life, conducts inmate counts, and conducts security inspections and searches of inmates and inmate's quarters for contraband and ...

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, conducts inmate counts, and conducts security inspections and searches of inmates and inmates' quarters for contraband and any unauthorized ...

Correctional Officer

Juneau, WI · On-site

$28.08 - $30.94/hr

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, conducts inmate counts, and conducts security inspections and searches of inmates and inmate's quarters for contraband and any unauthorized ...

Correctional Officer

Juneau, WI · On-site

$28.08 - $30.94/hr

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, conducts inmate counts, and conducts security inspections and searches of inmates and inmate's quarters for contraband and any unauthorized ...

Correctional Officer

Juneau, WI · On-site

$28.08 - $30.94/hr

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, conducts inmate counts, and conducts security inspections and searches of inmates and inmate's quarters for contraband and any unauthorized ...

Detention Deputy I

Newton, KS · On-site

$21.63 - $24.48/hr

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, protects life, conducts inmate counts, and conducts security inspections and searches of inmates and inmate's quarters for contraband and ...

Correctional Officer-Part time

Juneau, WI · On-site

$28.08 - $30.94/hr

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, conducts inmate counts, and conducts security inspections and searches of inmates and inmate's quarters for contraband and any unauthorized ...

... jail Conducts security rounds and performs inspections of inmates and facilities; notifies supervisor of maintenance needs or of inmate issues; conducts perimeter checks of the safety complex and ...

Jailor

Woodbine, GA · On-site

$46K/yr

Processes and books inmates in the county jail *Conducts security rounds and performs inspections of inmates and facilities; notifies supervisor of maintenance needs or of inmate issues; conducts ...

Correctional Officer-Part time

Juneau, WI · On-site

$28.08 - $30.94/hr

Maintains jail safety and security. Makes periodic rounds, conducts inmate counts, and conducts security inspections and searches of inmates and inmate's quarters for contraband and any unauthorized ...

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Jail Inspector information

See salary details

$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do jail inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for jail inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a jail guard?

To become a jail guard, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete training at a correctional officer academy. Some states require certification or licensing, and candidates should have good communication skills and physical fitness for the role.

What are some common challenges faced by Jail Inspectors during facility inspections?

Jail Inspectors often encounter challenges such as resistance to change from facility staff, navigating complex regulations, and ensuring compliance across diverse facilities with varying resources. Inspectors must balance thoroughness with fairness, maintaining positive working relationships while enforcing standards. Additionally, they may need to address issues related to overcrowding, outdated infrastructure, or limited record-keeping, all while upholding safety and legal requirements.

Why do so many correctional officers quit?

Correctional officers often leave the job due to high stress, safety concerns, long and irregular hours, and emotional strain from working in a challenging environment. Job burnout and limited opportunities for advancement also contribute to high turnover rates in correctional facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Jail Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Jail Inspector, you need a solid understanding of correctional facility regulations, law enforcement protocols, and typically a background in criminal justice or related fields. Familiarity with inspection checklists, incident reporting systems, and relevant legal compliance software is essential. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and impartial judgment are critical soft skills in this role. These skills ensure that facilities meet legal standards, uphold safety and human rights, and mitigate risks within correctional environments.

Can I become a correctional officer at 40?

Yes, many correctional agencies accept applicants up to age 40 or older, provided they meet other requirements such as background checks, physical fitness, and training. Age limits vary by jurisdiction, so it is advisable to check specific agency policies and ensure you meet the qualifications for becoming a correctional officer or jail inspector.

What are Jail Inspectors?

Jail Inspectors are professionals responsible for evaluating and ensuring that correctional facilities comply with established laws, regulations, and standards. They conduct inspections of jails and detention centers to assess safety, security, sanitation, and the overall treatment of inmates. Their work helps maintain humane conditions, identify deficiencies, and recommend improvements to facility management. Jail Inspectors may work for local, state, or federal agencies and play a crucial role in upholding the rights and welfare of incarcerated individuals.

What is the difference between Jail Inspector vs Correctional Officer?

AspectJail InspectorCorrectional Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in inspection or safetyHigh school diploma or GED; basic training and certification often required
Work EnvironmentInspections of jails, ensuring compliance with safety and health standardsSupervising inmates within correctional facilities
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies overseeing jail facilitiesPrisons, jails, and detention centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to jail safety and complianceSecurity and supervision of inmates

Jail Inspectors focus on inspecting jail facilities for safety and compliance, while Correctional Officers supervise inmates within correctional facilities. Both roles require similar basic credentials, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

How much money is a 15-minute jail call?

A jail inspector or related correctional staff typically does not set or receive payment for inmate calls. The cost of a 15-minute jail call varies by facility and service provider, often ranging from $3 to $10, and may be paid through prepaid accounts or collect calls. Inmates or their families usually cover these charges, which are managed by the jail's communication system providers.
More about Jail Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Jail Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Jail Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Jail Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Jail Inspector jobs include:
Infographic showing various Jail Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

$49K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description Under direct supervision, monitors and supervises the movement and activities of inmates at the St. Clair County Jail, ensuring inmate welfare, maintenance of jail security, and adherence to both departmental policy and applicable state statute; performs related booking, admitting, and release functions. Examples of Duties Receives books, and admits incoming prisoners; photographs, fingerprints, and searches prisoners; inventories property and assigns storage lockers; completes required paper work; orders showers, issues jail uniforms and assigns prisoners to cell blocks Releases prisoners meeting bond requirements, those exonerated in the court system, and inmates having fulfilled jail terms; checks release papers, verifies identity of prisoner being released, and returns clothing and other possessions.

Performs duties in the maintenance of jail security to include, but not to be limited to, the following: the performance of headcounts; 30-minute cell checks; the supervision of all inmate movement within the facility; shakedowns of inmates and quarters; the guarding of inmates during recreational activities, interviews, and visitations; the inspection of items and persons entering and leaving jail areas the quelling of disturbances; and the transportation of persons to and from court appearances. Supervises tenders in the service of meals to inmates, ensuring that each inmate receives only one meal tray and that all trays and utensils are returned following meal service. Issues medications to inmates for whom they have been prescribed; notifies superior authority of inmate requests for medical attention and preforms first aid in emergency situations.

Operates jail commissary; controls commissary bank; issues monies to inmates from their accounts and records transactions; monitors commissary room activity. Supervises tenders in the performance of custodial/housekeeping functions to include the cleaning of cell block areas and corridors, the laundering of bedding and uniforms, and similar activities. Remains observant of inmate attitude/behavior; maintains control over behavior and circumstances which are potentially volatile; directs inmate compliance with jail rules and regulations; reports infractions, prepares incident reports, and files charges against inmates as needed.

Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above. Typical Qualifications Must be at least 18 years of age. Education: Requires knowledge , skill, and mental development.

High School diploma. Requires successful completion of the Correctional Officer's Training Program though the State of Illinois, Department of Corrections within a reasonable period od time following employment. Requires successful competition of the Mandatory Firearms Training Program through the local Government Law Enforcement Officers Training Board within a reasonable period of time following employment.

Supplemental Information Requires possession of a valid Illinois Vehicle Operator's License in the appropriate classification required by law. Requires elementary knowledge of the "Illinois County Jail Standards," as issued by the state of Illinois, Department of Corrections. Requires elementary knowledge of departmental rules and regulations governing jail facility operations.

Requires elementary knowledge of the theories, methods, and procedures utilized in maintaining the security of a correctional facility. Requires elementary knowledge of the activities and interrelationships of the various functional components of the criminal justice system. Requires elementary knowledge of first aid.

Requires alertness and the ability to maintain jail security in accordance with facility rules and regulations and applicable law. Requires ability to supervise the activities of inmates in accordance with facility rules and standards guiding their handling and conduct. Requires ability to comprehend the special problems of and deal humanely with individuals in confinement.

Requires ability to respond to emergency situations quickly and decisively. Requires ability to function effectively under conditions of stress. Requires ability to justify and document chosen courses of action.

Requires ability to employ both authority and firmness in all transactions with inmates. Requires ability to prepare requisite records and reports. Requires ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

Requires ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the general public. **You are required to be a resident of St. Clair County within 1 year of hire** Educational Pay: Extra Pay - $300 / year - Bachelors Degree Extra Pay - $450 / year - Master's Degree.