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Jailer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jailer participation involves, but is not limited to; booking and releasing offenders, maintaining security of the facility, escorting offenders within and /or outside the secure confines of the jail.

Jailer Recruit

Westmoreland, KS · On-site

$31.83/hr

Jailer participation involves, but is not limited to; booking and releasing offenders, maintaining security of the facility, escorting offenders within and /or outside the secure confines of the jail.

Jailer Recruit

Westmoreland, KS · On-site

$21.06 - $31.83/hr

Jailer participation involves, but is not limited to; booking and releasing offenders, maintaining security of the facility, escorting offenders within and /or outside the secure confines of the jail.

JAILER

La Crosse, WI · On-site

$27.83 - $34.71/hr

Non-Exempt This is a specialized non-law enforcement position in the Jail Division of the Sheriff's Office. Employees work under close to moderate supervision in maintaining security in a modern jail ...

Jailer

Chippewa Falls, WI · On-site

$25.55 - $31.26/hr

Jailer I, II. Go to Sheriff Pre-Employment for full pre-employment details and look for Jailer I or II. *Current Shift Openings: Nights, 6 PM - 6 AM includes shift differential of $1.00 per hour.

Jailer

Chippewa Falls, WI · On-site

$25.55 - $31.26/hr

Jail Opening Date: 08/05/2026 Closing Date: 8/19/2026 4:30 PM Central Purpose of Position JOB SUMMARY The job duties of the Jailer include but are not limited to supervising inmates of the Chippewa ...

Jailer

College Park, GA · On-site

$45K/yr

Places prisoners in an assigned jail cell and removes them for release or transportation. * Arranges for an escort to transport to other locations. * Assures safety and health of prisoners.

Jailer Summary Title: Jailer ID: 1017 Location: Cape Girardeau Department: 3010 - POLICE Salary Range: $20.10 per hour More about this job > Description General Definition of Work Performs works ...

Jailer

Desoto, TX · On-site

$46K - $67K/yr

Jail Operations Opening Date: 11/13/2025 Closing Date: Continuous FLSA: Non-Exempt Description This position will remain open until filled, with applications reviewed on an ongoing basis. This job ...

Jailer

Cape Girardeau, MO · On-site

$20.10/hr

... the jail. • Transports or releases prisoners to officers for transportation to court. • Transports work release prisoners to and from work sites. • Maintains records of property released to ...

JAILER

Weslaco, TX · On-site

$13/hr

Job Summary The jailer is responsible for the operation of the City's jail, the physical intake, detention, release and the well-being of all individuals that are incarcerated in the facility in ...

The purpose of the position is to ensure the safety and security of prisoners and visitors to the City Jail. Successful implementation of the work results in a safer atmosphere, a decrease in inmate ...

Control entry and exit to the jail, process bookings, conduct interviews, and perform inmate classification and housing assignments. Search arrestees and jail cells for drugs, weapons, and other ...

Jailer

Orange, TX · On-site

$22.03/hr

Job Title: Jailer Salary range: $22.03 Department: Sheriff's Office GUARDS INMATES IN A PENAL INSTITUTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH ESTABLISHED POLICIES, REGULATIONS, AND PROCEDURES. OTHER DUTIES ASSIGNED ...

JAILER

Weslaco, TX · On-site

$13/hr

Job SummaryThe jailer is responsible for the operation of the City's jail, the physical intake, detention, release and the well-being of all individuals that are incarcerated in the facility in ...

Jailer

Boone, IA · On-site

$23.84 - $28.05/hr

Primary duties include those duties assigned by the Sheriff, Chief Deputy, or Jail Administrator. These duties shall include, but are not limited to: booking of prisoners, data entry, overseeing the ...

Jailer

Laguna Beach, CA · On-site

$52K - $73K/yr

Search arrestees and jail cells for drugs, weapons, and other contraband; inspect the facility to ensure cleanliness and compliance with Title 15 standards. * Complete booking paperwork, maintain ...

Job Summary The jailer is responsible for the operation of the City's jail, the physical intake, detention, release and the well-being of all individuals that are incarcerated in the facility in ...

Jailer Part-Time

Washburn, WI · On-site

$26.44 - $27.91/hr

The jailer is required to perform her duties in such a manner as to insure that secure, safe and sanitary conditions exist at all times. Examples of Duties a. Booking and discharging of inmates and ...

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Jailer information

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$21

How much do jailer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for jailer in the United States is $21.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a jailer?

Jailers, also known as correctional officers or detention officers, are professionals responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in jail. Their duties include maintaining order and security within the facility, supervising inmate activities, conducting inspections, and ensuring that rules and regulations are followed. Jailers also handle inmate intake and release procedures, respond to emergencies, and sometimes assist with rehabilitation programs. Their role is crucial for the safety of both inmates and staff in correctional institutions.

What is the difference between Jailer vs Correctional Officer?

AspectJailerCorrectional Officer
CertificationsBasic security and safety training, sometimes state-specificSimilar security training, often includes additional certifications
Work EnvironmentPrison or jail facilities, confined spacesPrison or jail facilities, patrol duties
Employer & IndustryCorrectional facilities, government agenciesCorrectional facilities, law enforcement agencies

Both jailers and correctional officers work in correctional facilities, ensuring security and safety. While their roles overlap significantly, correctional officers often have broader responsibilities, including patrol and emergency response, whereas jailers primarily focus on inmate supervision and facility security.

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

To thrive as a Jailer, you need knowledge of correctional procedures, security protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring specialized training or certifications in corrections. Familiarity with surveillance systems, incident reporting software, and restraint techniques is typically necessary. Strong interpersonal skills, stress management, and sound judgment help Jailers manage inmate interactions and maintain facility safety. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring security, upholding regulations, and fostering a safe environment for both staff and inmates.

What does a jailer do?

A jailer or correctional officer enforces the rules and regulations and maintains order within a prison or jail. In this career, you supervise all inmate activities, such as recreation and meal times. Your responsibilities also include making routine inspections of inmates’ cells and personal belongings, confiscating any contraband you find, including weapons, cell phones, or unauthorized reading material, and ensuring that the cell is secure. In addition to monitoring prisoners, you also log your actions and write reports regarding inmates and their behavior.

What are some common challenges faced by jailers in their daily responsibilities?

Jailers often encounter challenges such as managing inmate conflicts, maintaining safety and security, and ensuring that facility rules are consistently enforced. The role requires strong communication skills to de-escalate tense situations and collaborate effectively with other correctional staff. Additionally, Jailers must stay vigilant for any signs of contraband or security breaches while balancing routine administrative tasks like logging inmate activities and supervising visitations. Adapting to shift work and handling high-stress situations are also important aspects of the job.

What cities are hiring for Jailer jobs?

Cities with the most Jailer job openings:

What states have the most Jailer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Jailer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Jailer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,037 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

$21.06 - $31.83/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description

This position performs Jail duties ensuring the welfare of all inmates of the Pottawatomie County Jail. Jailers participate in the day-to-day operations of the jail. Jailer participation involves, but is not limited to; booking and releasing offenders, maintaining security of the facility, escorting offenders within and /or outside the secure confines of the jail. Jailers will supervise offender work release, dispense medications, effectively manage volatile and violent offenders, and fulfill a number of clerical duties. In addition, Jailers maintains security, control, and custody in the Pottawatomie County Jail which consists of modules or pods. Jailers mostly use indirect supervision but may use direct supervision in the jail.


Essential Functions

Receives and books inmates.

Ensures the welfare of all inmates of the Pottawatomie County Jail.

Supervises inmates in the Pottawatomie County Jail.

Supervises inmates during leisure time activities, court, appointments and work details

May transport inmates to and from court, medical appointments, and other institutions.

Supervises inmates and visitors during visiting hours.

Monitors and controls both internal and external security of the jail

Sees that facilities, cells, and grounds are kept sanitary.

Conducts periodic cell checks.

Performs searches of inmates.

Performs searches of cells and other areas for contraband.

Maintains discipline among inmates.

Opens and censors incoming mail.

Maintains and updates Jail records.

Performs fingerprinting and takes photographs.

Assigns prisoners to cells according to the Jail classification plan.

Releases prisoners on proper authorization, returning personal property and clothing.

Delivers medications.

Reports and if directed by supervisor investigate all incidents and violations of rules at the facility for disciplinary reports and possible citation or arrest.

Collects and secures evidence.

Supervise, guard, and protect inmates during court sessions, maintaining responsibility for the general security of the courtroom.


Marginal Functions

Testifies in court and before disciplinary boards;

Responds to inquiries regarding inmate detention and Jail policies within constraints of Sheriff Office policies.

Utilizes computer to enter, retrieve and relay information.

Performs clerical functions by maintaining logs, records, reports and files.

Deals with the public and other law enforcement agencies in person and by telephone and fax.

Performs all other duties as needed or requested by the Sheriff or Undersheriff.

Requirements

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Knowledge of State and Federal laws affecting prisoners.

Knowledge of inmate/resident classification and booking processes.

Ability to deal with confidential and sensitive matters.

Ability to read and interpret documents such as reports, posters, policies, procedure manuals, releases, court orders and ID cards.

Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.

Ability to give presentations regarding diversion programming.

Ability to communicate effectively with residents, co-workers and the public both verbally and in writing.

Ability to perform simple arithmetic calculations.

Ability to calculate calendar dates for entry/release, count money and inmate inventory.

Ability to solve problems and deal with a variety of variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.

Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, or schedule form.

Ability to react to emergency situations and use physical force necessary to defend oneself and others.

Ability to attend to details, operate under pressure and exercise sound judgment.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to use a computer. Good knowledge of PC operations and software are required as well as good typing skills.

Thorough knowledge of the rules, regulations and practices of the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office.

Thorough skill in performing the specific work functions of the Jail.

Ability to diffuse highly stressful/confrontational situations.

Ability to take charge of a given situation.

Ability to remain objective.

Ability to listen.

Ability to operate a motor vehicle.

Must be willing to participate in a minimum of 20 hours of in-service training each year.

Legal rights and obligations of Jail inmates

Competency

To perform the job successfully, an individual must demonstrate the following competencies;

Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures; Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly.

Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs work flows and procedures.

Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions.

Project Management - Develops project plans; Coordinates projects: Communicates changes and progress; Complete projects on time and budget.

Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Participates in meetings.

Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.

Change Management - Develops workable implementation plans; Communicates changes effectively; Monitors transition and evaluated results.

Quality Management - Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness.

Business Acumen - Understands business implications of decisions.

Organizational Support - Follows policies and procedures; Completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; Supports organization's goals and values.

Strategic Thinking - Develops strategies to achieve organizational goals; Adapts strategy to changing conditions.

Judgment - Displays willingness to make decisions; Exhibits sound and accurate judgment; Supports and explains reasoning for decisions; Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions.

Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Sets goals and objectives; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; Develops realistic action plans.

Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments.

Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Monitors own work to ensure quality.

Quantity - Meets productivity standards; Completes work in timely manner; Strives to increase productivity; Works quickly.

Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures; Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly.

Adaptability - Adapts to changes in the work environment; Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.

Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time.

Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments.

Initiative - Seeks increased responsibilities; Takes independent action.


Experience, Education or other requirements:

A high school diploma or GED is required. All applicants must be a U.S. citizen, 21 years or older, at the time of appointment and have the ability to pass a work related physical proficiency/agility test, a medical/physical examination, and a background investigation. Applicants must not have been convicted of a felony, must not have been dishonorably discharged from any branch of the U.S. armed forces or a background that would be disrespectful to the profession of law enforcement or the citizens of Pottawatomie County Kansas. This position requires a valid Kansas Driver's License. Experience in jailing or correction work is preferred but not required. Current first-aid and cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification (American Red Cross or equivalent) must be acquired prior to completion of initial training and must also be maintained as a condition of employment. Certification to wear and maintain respirators and protective masks and related personal protective equipment and department approved and issued defensive weapons is required of all positions. Employees must successfully complete a 6 month probationary training and assessment period from the date of employment.


Personal Relations:

Incumbent works daily with subordinates, sworn and non-sworn, and supervisory officers in order to fulfill job responsibilities and department objectives. Also may interact on a daily basis with other city agencies, outside law enforcement agencies and the general public. Incumbent exchanges routine factual information daily through one-on-one contact, by telephone, radio and by correspondence. Daily contact with the general public, co-workers and supervisory personnel is expected.

Working Conditions: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


While performing the duties of this job, the employee may have a high risk of exposure to blood borne pathogens. Hepatitis B vaccine, personal protective training and equipment will be provided. Employee is sometimes exposed to outside weather conditions, extreme cold, extreme heat. Conditions or situations exist in which there is the possibility of danger to life, health, or bodily injury to self and/or others. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. This position contains an element of risk to personal safety.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; use hands and arms to reach, push, or pull; climb; talk and hear.

The employee is occasionally required to sit and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.

The employee must regularly lift and /or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 pounds.

The employee must be able to lift, pull, bend, or physically restrain a combative or injured suspect weighing 165 lbs.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.


Reasonable accommodations may be made in order to perform the essential functions. This job description describes a general category of jobs. In order to meet the needs of the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office, employees may be assigned other duties, in addition to or in lieu of those described above, and any duties are subject to change at any time.


Starting pay with no experience is $21.06 per hour.  


Candidates with direct jail experience may be hired at non-recruit status with pay DOQ.