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Jailer Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Lateral Jail Deputy

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$41.22 - $52.64/hr

Jail Deputies supervise those in custody and maintain jail security; admit, transport, and control the movement of those in custody; handle jail emergencies and unusual situations as they arise ...

Jail Deputies supervise those in custody and maintain jail security; admit, transport, and control the movement of those in custody; handle jail emergencies and unusual situations as they arise ...

Jail Corrections FLSA Status: non-exempt WC Code: 7720 Pay Range: 51 Union: MSEA GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES Work is performed to provide care and custody of adult prisoners and to maintain order and ...

Jail Corrections FLSA Status: non-exempt WC Code: 7720 Pay Range: 51 Union: MSEA GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES Work is performed to provide care and custody of adult prisoners and to maintain order and ...

Variable Hour Jail Deputy Incentive! Washington County will provide a $500 per pay period stipend intended to roughly cover medical insurance premiums. The stipend is contingent on the employee ...

JOB SUMMARY The Limited Duty Jail Deputy maintains the order, discipline and security of the County Jail and assists in the processing of persons into and releases persons from the jail within ...

The Administrative Specialist II for the Washington County Sheriff's Office - Jail Division provides essential administrative support to the Jail Administrative Office, leadership team, and staff ...

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Jailer information

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$23

How much do jailer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for jailer in Oregon is $22.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.50 and $22.50 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 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 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 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 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.

Do jailers make good money?

Jailers, also known as correctional officers, typically earn a median annual salary that varies by location and experience, often ranging from $35,000 to $60,000. Salaries can increase with overtime, seniority, and specialized training, and the job may include shift work and security responsibilities.

How much do jailers make?

Jailers, also known as detention officers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on location, experience, and the facility. Salaries can vary based on the employer, shift differentials, and additional certifications or training.

Is it hard to be a jailer?

Being a jailer can be physically and emotionally demanding due to the need to supervise inmates, ensure safety, and handle potentially volatile situations. The job often requires good communication skills, adherence to strict protocols, and sometimes working irregular hours or shifts. Training and certifications in security and safety procedures are typically required.
Infographic showing various Jailer job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $46,829 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Lateral Jail Deputy

Washington County, OR

Hillsboro, OR • On-site

$41.22 - $52.64/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Note: This job will be posted through 11:59 PM of the day prior to the end date listed.
Current Washington County Employees: Please apply through the employee portal to be considered for this opportunity.
Job Type:
Regular
Pay Range:
$41.22 - $52.64 Hourly
Department:
Sheriff's Office
FLSA Exemption Status:
Non-Exempt
About the Opportunity:
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
There are specific instructions for applying with the Washington County Sheriff's Office and may be disqualified from consideration if you do not follow these instructions.
*If you do not meet the Lateral Jail Deputy criteria, please apply for the Recruit Deputy (Jail and Patrol Divisions) positions.*
The Washington County Sheriff's Office is actively recruiting to create a pool of diverse candidates eligible for current and future Lateral Jail Deputy vacancies in our Jail Division. The Sheriff's Office is seeking individuals who are great communicators, demonstrate strong moral character, possess good customer service skills, can think and reason under pressure, are active problem solvers, maintain positive attitudes and thrive in a team working environment.
Jail Deputies supervise those in custody and maintain jail security; admit, transport, and control the movement of those in custody; handle jail emergencies and unusual situations as they arise; maintain the classification system; and tend to personal needs of those in custody.
Please refer to the Jail Deputy Classification Specification for the official job description and list of essential job duties.
Applications are open continuous for all Lateral Jail Deputies. To learn more, visit: Sheriff's Office Employment.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION:
You must meet all the following qualifications, and the recruitment and examination process will evaluate if you meet the following criteria:
Current Certification:
Currently possess a Basic Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training "DPSST" certification OR other equivalent local, state or federal certification as a Corrections Officer or Jail Deputy;
Have completed a Field Training Program;
Have at least one year of full-time equivalent (2080 hours) work experience as a Corrections Officer or Jail Deputy. Completion of required work experience must not have occurred greater than 12 months prior to the date of application submission.
Additional Licenses, Certificates, Physical Abilities, and Specialty Requirements:
Please refer to the Jail Deputy Classification Specification for the official job description and additional licenses, certifications, physical abilities, and specialty requirements.
Background Investigation: Must be able to pass a thorough background investigation, and meet the standards set by the State of Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST).
Department of Motor Vehicle Records (DMV) Requirement:
Driving a motorized vehicle is an essential function of this position. Successful applicants must possess a valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record. To review the Driver's License and Record Policy for Washington County and instructions for submitting appropriate DMV documentation, please use this link: Driver's License & Records Policy
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:
Washington County is committed to using a Merit Based System in which recruiting, selecting, and advancing employees is based on their relative knowledge, skills, and abilities.
IN ORDER TO MOVE FORWARD IN THE HIRING PROCESS:
All applicants must successfully complete the following:
STEP 1: Complete Your Application - All applicants must complete the application in order to be considered for this position.
PLEASE NOTE: The remaining steps are coordinated through the Washington County Sheriff's Office. If you have additional questions in regard to the steps below, please contact the Washington County Recruitment Team in the Sheriff's Office at: joinwcso@washingtoncountyor.gov or (503) 846-JOIN (5646).
STEP 2: Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ) - Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications for the Lateral Jail Deputy will be required to complete an online PHQ in its' entirety. A link to the PHQ will be sent to you from Guardian Alliance Technologies on behalf of Washington County Sheriff's Office and must be completed within 17 days from the issuance of the link. You will need to follow the instructions provided in the e-mail.
STEP 3: Pre-Offer Suitability Test - Applicants will be invited to complete the Pre-Offer Suitability Test, which evaluates an applicant's characteristics and match for the certified law enforcement profession and WCSO.
STEP 4: Full Background & Jail Job Shadow - Candidates are required to complete a job shadow within the Washington County Jail.
STEP 5: Panel Interview - Applicants will complete a panel interview as a final step before being considered for the position.
STEP 6:Commander Interview and Conditional Job Offer. (Job offer conditional based on passing step 7)
STEP 7: Post Offer Physical and Psychological Evaluation - The evaluations are completed by a third party; licensed medical doctor and a licensed psychologist.
MORE INFORMATION:
Have questions? Read through this entire job announcement, especially the supplemental questions which include information about steps in the Hiring Process, Transferring Test Scores, Out-of-Area Candidates, and MORE. Still can't find an answer? Visit our WCSO Employmentwebsite.
RE-APPLICATIONS:
If you are unsuccessful at any phase in the hiring process, you will be notified by e-mail within two (2) weeks. You will be eligible to reapply whenever we are recruiting, unless one of the following steps were unsuccessful:
  • Pre-offer Suitability Test - you must wait six (6) months to reapply.
  • Background Investigation - you must wait twelve (12) months to reapply.
  • Panel Interview - you must wait six (6) months to reapply.
  • Post-offer Psychological Exam - you must wait twelve (12) months to reapply.

Selection Process:
You can review our standard selection process here.
Our commitment to you:
Washington County is an equal opportunity employer committed to using a merit-based system in which recruiting, selecting, and advancing employees is based on knowledge, skills, and abilities. Our organization embraces innovation, collaboration, and work-life harmony. We promote employee development and offer an award-winning benefits and wellness program as well as an opportunity to serve and support our vibrant community.
Veterans' Preference:
If you are a Veteran and would like to be considered for Veterans' preference for this recruitment, please review the instructions using this link: Veterans' Preference Points.
Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act:
Reasonable accommodation is available to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in the selection process for this recruitment. To obtain confidential assistance please contact Human Resources 503-846-8606, or email: Careers@WashingtonCountyOR.gov at least 48 hours before any step in the recruitment and selection process for which you feel you need accommodation.
Status of Your Application:
You will be advised by email of your status at each step in the application process, from initial application to final employment disposition. Please note that Washington County communicates with all candidates via email.
Questions?
Recruiter:
Laura Aranda
Email Address:
Laura_Aranda@washingtoncountyor.gov