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Jail Security Guard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IL

$49K - $77K/yr

Clair County Jail, ensuring inmate welfare, maintenance of jail security, and adherence to both ... guarding of inmates during recreational activities, interviews, and visitations; the inspection of ...

Security Guard

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$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 ...

Jailer Recruit

Westmoreland, KS · On-site

$21.06 - $31.83/hr

In addition, Jailers maintains security, control, and custody in the Pottawatomie County Jail which ... Supervise, guard, and protect inmates during court sessions, maintaining responsibility for the ...

Jailer Recruit

Westmoreland, KS · On-site

$31.83/hr

In addition, Jailers maintains security, control, and custody in the Pottawatomie County Jail which ... guard, and protect inmates during court sessions, maintaining responsibility for the general ...

Jailer Recruit

Westmoreland, KS · On-site

$21.06 - $31.83/hr

In addition, Jailers maintains security, control, and custody in the Pottawatomie County Jail which ... guard, and protect inmates during court sessions, maintaining responsibility for the general ...

Detention Officer

Adelanto, CA · On-site

$45.04/hr

... guarding prisoners and/or detainees as a correctional officer, jailer, or detention officer. Minimum qualifications include having the following: * Six months of experience as a security officer ...

CA

$41/hr

... jailer, or detention office, and has conducted transportation activities. Please present your ... Be registered through BSIS as an Armed Security Guard. * Possess current valid certifications for ...

Security of the Facility * Monitoring, inspecting, searching, counseling and providing direct ... Honor Guard, Peer Support Team, Field Training Deputy, Instructors (Firearms, Defensive Tactics ...

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Jail Security Guard information

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How much do jail security guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for jail security guard in the United States is $19.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a jail security guard?

Jail Security Guards are professionals responsible for maintaining safety, order, and security within correctional facilities such as jails or detention centers. Their duties include supervising inmates, conducting searches for contraband, enforcing rules, and responding to emergencies. They also assist with inmate transport and ensure that facility procedures are followed to prevent escapes or disturbances. Jail Security Guards play a critical role in protecting both staff and inmates while upholding the facility’s regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a jail security guard?

To thrive as a Jail Security Guard, you need a solid understanding of security protocols, conflict resolution, and legal procedures, often supported by a high school diploma and specialized training or certification in corrections. Familiarity with surveillance systems, radio communication devices, and incident reporting software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help guards effectively manage inmate behavior and maintain safety. These skills are crucial for ensuring facility security, preventing incidents, and fostering a safe environment for both staff and inmates.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by jail security guards in their daily duties?

Jail Security Guards often encounter challenges such as managing confrontational or distressed inmates, maintaining vigilance during long shifts, and responding quickly to emergencies. They must balance enforcing rules with treating inmates respectfully, which requires strong communication and conflict resolution skills. Additionally, adapting to constantly changing situations and working closely with colleagues to ensure safety and security are integral parts of the role.

What is the difference between Jail Security Guard vs Correctional Officer?

AspectJail Security GuardCorrectional Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, security trainingHigh school diploma or GED, correctional training
Work EnvironmentJail or detention center, security-focusedPrison or detention facility, security and supervision
Employer & IndustryLocal jails, detention centersState or federal prisons, detention facilities

Jail Security Guards primarily focus on maintaining security within jails, monitoring inmates, and preventing escapes. Correctional Officers have broader responsibilities, including inmate management, enforcing rules, and ensuring safety in correctional facilities. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but Correctional Officers typically have more comprehensive duties and authority.

How much do jail security guards get paid in the US?

Jail security guards in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced guards or those in high-cost areas can earn higher wages, often supplemented with benefits such as overtime and shift differentials.

What is required to be a jail security guard?

To become a jail security guard, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and complete training in security procedures and emergency response. Some jurisdictions require certification or licensing, and physical fitness is often necessary due to the demands of the job.

What cities are hiring for Jail Security Guard jobs?

Cities with the most Jail Security Guard job openings:

What states have the most Jail Security Guard jobs?

States with the most job openings for Jail Security Guard jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Jail Security Guard jobs?

For Jail Security Guard jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Jail Security Guard job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,591 per year, or $19 per hour.
St. Clair County (IL)
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

$49K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 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.