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Jail Security Guard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ulster County

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 ...

Autauga County, AL

CORRECTIONS DEPUTY

Prattville, AL · On-site

$1K - $2K/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 ...

AUTAUGA COUNTY COMMISSION

CORRECTIONS DEPUTY

Prattville, AL · On-site

$17.55 - $28.79/hr

Issues jail clothing, sheets, blanket, and mattress upon entrance of a new inmate. Explains to ... Guards and monitors inmates with an emphasis on well-being and security; maintains constant radio ...

Chesterfield County

Deputy Sheriff

Chesterfield, VA

$56K/yr

... DCJS Basic Jailor Certification, DOC Officer Certification, and/or Military Security/Patrol ... Must be at least 18 years of age if in the active military, Reserve, or Guard or at least 20 years ...

Weld County

Detention Deputy - Entry Level

Greeley, CO · On-site

... Pilot Honor Guard Bomb Squad Courts Unit The Weld County Sheriff's Office sponsors up to 10 ... Jail operations include performing activities necessary to maintain the health, safety, security ...

Chesterfield County, VA

Deputy Sheriff

Chesterfield, VA · On-site

$56K/yr

... DCJS Basic Jailor Certification, DOC Officer Certification, and/or Military Security/Patrol ... Must be at least 18 years of age if in the active military, Reserve, or Guard or at least 20 years ...

Houston County

Detention Officer

Perry, GA · On-site

$23.89/hr

Performs tower guard duties to assure security of facility; monitors television screens; operates ... Skill in enforcing jail regulations; skill in restraining individuals without causing physical harm ...

Houston County

Detention Officer

Perry, GA · On-site

$23.89/hr

Performs tower guard duties to assure security of facility; monitors television screens; operates ... Skill in enforcing jail regulations; skill in restraining individuals without causing physical harm ...

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Jail Security Guard information

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How much do jail security guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 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.

Do prisons have security guards?

Yes, prisons employ security guards, often called correctional officers or detention officers, to oversee inmate safety and maintain order. These guards monitor activities through surveillance, conduct regular patrols, and enforce facility rules, typically requiring training and certification. Their presence is essential for security within correctional facilities.

What are Jail Security Guards?

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 does a correctional security guard do?

A correctional security guard, also known as a jail security guard, is responsible for monitoring and controlling access to correctional facilities, ensuring the safety of staff and inmates. They conduct patrols, check for security breaches, enforce rules, and may use surveillance equipment to maintain order within the facility.

What is the highest paid security guard job?

The highest paid security guard jobs are typically in specialized fields such as executive protection, corporate security management, or security consulting, with salaries reaching over $70,000 annually. Positions requiring advanced training, certifications, or experience in high-risk environments tend to offer higher compensation.

How much do guards in jail make?

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

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.

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

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 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:
Jail Security Guard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jail Security Guard job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,591 per year, or $19 per hour.
Correction Officer

Correction Officer

Ulster County

Kingston, NY • On-site

$28.34/hr

Part-time

Posted 22 hours ago

Job description

CORRECTION OFFICER
CORRECTION OFFICER DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: 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 responsibilities for transporting prisoners and for maintaining courtroom security. The work is performed under general supervision of a higher ranked Correction Officer in accordance with well defined procedures and guidelines. Does related work as required. TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: The typical work activities listed below, while providing representative examples of the variety of work assignments in the title do not describe any individual position. Incumbents in this title may perform some or all of the following, as well as other related activities not described. Patrols an assigned area of the County Jail; Takes and records head counts of inmates in section, reporting immediately any discrepancies found; Watches over and supervises inmates when they are out of their cells, such as during recreation period, in order to maintain order and prevent escape; Fingerprints and photographs arriving prisoners; Receives, tags, records and issues receipts for inmate property; Maintains order and discipline in the jail, quelling disturbances if necessary with the use of force; Distributes medication to inmates on orders from physician and observes the ingestion of the medication; Observes inmate behavior noting unusual behavior which may indicate that the inmate is in physical or emotional distress which may require treatment; Transports prisoners via car or van from the jail to court, hospital, dentist or other facility as required; Logs the time and nature of activities occurring in section; Watches closed circuit television monitors from control room; Opens and closes security doors by remote control; Sounds alarm in the event of fire, escape or other emergency; Checks equipment for operating condition and readiness; Administers first aid;
Correction Officer Page 2
Supervises a work crew of inmates; Searches inmates and visitors and inspects parcels for contraband; Reports in writing on all disturbances and unusual events occurring during shift; May direct traffic on occasion; Attends school and training sessions in corrections methods; Stands guard duty at court or hospital; Checks doors, windows and locks to ensure that they are secured; Explains jail rules, regulations and policies to inmates and visitors. FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Working knowledge of New York State Minimum Standards and Regulations for Management of County Jails; working knowledge of the rules, regulations, procedures and polices of the County Jail; working knowledge of first aid techniques and applications; skill in the use of firearms; ability to deal effectively with inmates and maintain order and discipline; ability to apply physical force if necessary to quell inmate disturbances; ability to carry out oral and written instructions; ability to prepare brief narrative reports; ability to record information accurately; ability to count accurately; ability to operate a motor vehicle; good powers of observation; thoroughness; dependability; honesty; calm temperament. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma. Special Requirement 1: Candidates must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age at time of appointment. Special Requirement 2: Candidates must possess a valid New York State Driver's license at time of appointment. ULSTER COUNTY Adopted: November 18, 1980 1810 CORR OFF Revised: April 6, 1981 Classification: Competitive Revised: November 21, 1986 1811 COR OFF PT Revised: February 3, 1989 Classification: Non-Competitive Revised: February 20, 1996 Union: UCSEA Revised: August 31, 2015 Revised: June 19, 2018

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