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Prison Guard Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Prison Guard information

See Kentucky salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do prison guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for prison guard in Kentucky is $16.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prison guard?

Prison guards, also known as correctional 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 or prison. Their primary duty is to maintain order, enforce rules and regulations, and ensure the safety and security of inmates, staff, and the facility. Prison guards also supervise inmate activities, conduct inspections, and respond to emergencies. They play a crucial role in the rehabilitation and safe incarceration of offenders.

What does a prison guard do?

As a prison guard, your job is to maintain the custody and security of each inmate at your jail. Prison guards also enforce rules, keep watch for new criminal conduct, maintain discipline, and uphold all relevant laws and regulations. You may also screen visitors, escort offenders, handle and train canines, manage inventories, and observe the conduct of inmates. You may be asked to prepare reports, respond during emergencies, make decisions quickly while in high-pressure situations, and maintain poise and self-confidence at all times. Other aspects of this job depend on the wishes of the warden, who supervises all prison operations. Prison guards are also known as correctional officers, and many job listings use this title.

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

To thrive as a Prison Guard, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic law enforcement or corrections training, and knowledge of security protocols. Familiarity with surveillance systems, incident reporting software, and restraint equipment is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, situational awareness, and conflict resolution abilities help maintain safety and order within the facility. These skills are vital for ensuring a secure environment, protecting staff and inmates, and effectively managing challenging situations.

What are some common challenges prison guards face when working with inmates, and how are these challenges typically managed?

Prison guards frequently encounter challenges such as managing inmate conflicts, maintaining safety, and handling high-stress situations. Effective communication, adherence to strict protocols, and regular training in crisis intervention are key to managing these challenges. Guards often work closely with other officers and support staff to ensure a secure environment and prevent incidents. Building professional relationships with inmates, while maintaining clear boundaries, also helps minimize tensions and contribute to a safer facility.

What is the difference between Prison Guard vs Correctional Officer?

AspectPrison GuardCorrectional Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states require training certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; state certification often required
Work EnvironmentPrisons, detention centers, security postsPrisons, jails, detention facilities
Employer & IndustryState or federal correctional facilitiesState and federal correctional institutions
Job RoleSupervises inmates, enforces rules, maintains securitySupervises inmates, monitors activities, ensures safety

Prison Guard and Correctional Officer roles are similar, both working in correctional facilities to supervise inmates and maintain security. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Correctional Officer' is the more common and official title across most jurisdictions. Both positions require similar credentials and work environments, focusing on inmate supervision and safety.

How much do prison guards get paid in the US?

Prison guards in the US typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, though this can vary based on experience, location, and facility type. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced guards or those working in high-cost areas can earn higher wages, often supplemented with benefits and overtime opportunities.

How to become a prison guard?

To become a prison guard, applicants typically need to meet age and education requirements, pass a background check, and complete training at a state-certified academy. In some cases, passing a written exam and physical fitness test is also required before employment.

Is being a prison guard a good career?

Prison guards, also known as correctional officers, work in correctional facilities to supervise inmates and maintain security. The job offers a stable salary, benefits, and opportunities for advancement, but it can involve high stress, exposure to violence, and irregular shifts. Success in this career often requires good communication skills, physical fitness, and adherence to safety protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Prison Guard jobs in Kentucky?

For Prison Guard jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Prison Guard jobs in KY?

For Prison Guard jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Prison Guard job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,385 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Corrections Transport Officer

City of Louisville, KY

Louisville, KY • On-site

$52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 10 hours ago


Job description

Salary : $52,852.80 Annually
Location : 517 Court Place, Louisville, KY 40202, KY
Job Type: Full_Time
Job Number: 9341
Department: Corrections
Opening Date: 08/09/2022
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Summary Objective:
The purpose of this position is to escort inmates to medical appointments, clinics, and funerals.
This class works under close to general supervision according to set procedures but determines how or when to complete tasks.
Examples of Duties
Essential Functions:
The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.
  • Guards inmates; monitors their conduct and behavior to prevent escapes, fights, disturbances, forbidden activities, introduction of contraband, and rules violations; and prepares forms on inmate activity and behavior
  • Completes, processes, and maintains forms, documents, records, and files.
  • Renders aid to other officers in emergency situations, restrains and subdues inmates, and documents disturbances and significant occurrences.
  • Follows departmental security policies and procedures.
  • Maintains logs or records of transport activities.
  • Handcuffs, shackles, or further restrains inmates and escorts them to and from offsite appointments.
  • Plans, executes, and inspects all aspects of the trip to ensure a safe and controlled travel environment.
  • Verifies the identity of inmates and perform searches prior to transportation.
  • Collaborates with medical, Records, Booking Floor staff, and Shift Commanders for inmate movement.
  • Assists Motor Pool Officer with maintenance of departmental vehicles.
  • Participates in specialized training, including, but not limited to annual vehicle training.
  • Performs related work as assigned.

Minimum Requirements
High school diploma or the equivalent
OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must submit to a pre-employment polygraph test.
  • Must be a US Citizen.
  • Must be a retired LMDC sworn employee.
  • Must be a minimum of 21 years of age.
  • Must not have been convicted of a felony.
  • Must submit to a pre-employment drug screening.
  • Must pass a pre-employment physical, stress, and medical examination.
  • Applicants who have illegally bought, sold, or trafficked, as defined in KRS218A.010 and KRS218A.1431, controlled substances, other than marijuana, within six years of application will be disqualified.
  • Applicants who have used an illegal controlled substance other than marijuana within the last six years of application will be disqualified.
  • Applicants who have illegally bought, possessed, or used marijuana, including medicinal cannabis, within six months of application will be disqualified.
  • Applicants who have illegally sold marijuana, including medicinal cannabis, within one year of application will be disqualified.
  • Applicants who have used a prescription-controlled substance without a prescription more than once within the last six years of application will be disqualified.
  • Applicants who have used a prescription-controlled substance without a prescription on a single occasion within the last six years of application will be disqualified for one year since the last use without a prescription.
  • Applicants and employees in positions which perform job duties that may require contact with offenders in the custody or supervision of the Department of Juvenile Justice or with youth in the care, custody or supervision of Youth Development must meet qualifications pursuant to the federal Prison Rape Elimination Act, 28 CFR 115.17 and 115.317, to include periodic post-employment criminal background checks
  • Must not be a current user of illegal drugs.
  • Must not have ever engaged in sexual abuse in a prison, jail, lockup, community confinement facility, juvenile facility, or other institution ( as defined in 42 U.S.C. 1997).
  • Must not have ever been convicted of engaging or attempting to engage in sexual activity in the community, facilitated by force, overt or implied threats of force, or coercion, or if the victim did not consent or was unable to consent or refuse.
  • Must not have ever been civilly or administratively adjudicated to have engaged in the activity described in the previous question.
  • Must pass and maintain pistol and shotgun firearm certification.
  • Must complete forty (40) hours of annual in-service training.
  • Must wear personal protective equipment as mandated by OSHA.
  • Must wear safety equipment as mandated by OSHA.
  • Must be vaccinated for hepatitis B, have provided evidence of immunity, or have signed a declination form within ten days of initial assignment.
  • Must pass an annual tuberculin test.
  • Must work a varied schedule.
  • Must be on 24 hour call.
  • Must be eligible for certification as a State Peace Officer.
  • Must lift and restrain individuals.
  • Must enter data into a computer.
  • Must be certified in CPR and First Aid within 30 days of hire.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving history.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:
Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement.
  • Performs light to medium work that involves walking or standing virtually all of the time and also involves exerting between 20 and 50 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or considerable skill, adeptness and speed in the use of the fingers, hands or limbs in tasks involving close tolerances or limits of accuracy.

UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS (WORK ENVIRONMENT):
Unavoidable hazards refer to the job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken.
  • None.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITY ACT COMPLIANCE:
Louisville Metro Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the Louisville Metro Government to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.
STANDARD CLAUSES:
May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of Louisville Metro Government.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.
ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS:
It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses.
Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed and employees are properly trained.
Louisville Metro Government is committed to providing our employees with the tools they need to lead a fit and healthy life. Aside from community-wide initiatives like the Mayor's Hike, Bike and Paddle event every Memorial Day and Labor Day, and the Healthy Hometown Movement, Metro Government provides employees with programs designed to enhance their life and well-being, like a Wellness Center that allows employees and their dependents with Metro health insurance to take care of their basic medical and health needs for a $5 co-pay. Louisville Metro Government understands that a team of healthy, vibrant employees is the greatest asset we have.
Full Time Regular
• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Group Term Life
• Supplemental Life
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment
• Sick Leave
• Vacation
• Holiday Pay
• Bereavement Leave
• Kentucky Public Pensions Authority
• 457 Deferred Comp
• Voluntary Lifestyle Benefits
• Tuition Assistance
• Qualified Adult Benefits
• Childcare Assistance
• Free TARC Use
• Paid Parental Leave
Part Time - 17.5 to 25 Hours Per Week
• Vacation (pro rata)
• Sick Leave (pro rata)
• Holiday Pay (pro rata)
Part Time - Less Than 17.5 Hours Per Week
• Ineligible For Benefits
Temporary Positions
• Ineligible For Benefits
Interns
• Ineligible For Benefits
01
Do you have a High school diploma or the equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Are you a citizen of the United States?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you possess and maintain a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Are you a retired LMDC sworn employee?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Are you at least 21 years of age?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Are you eligible for certification as a State Peace Officer?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Are you capable of being on 24 hour call?
  • Yes
  • No

08
Are you willing to work a varied schedule?
  • Yes
  • No

09
Have you been convicted of a felony?
  • Yes
  • No

10
Have you illegally bought, possessed, or used marijuana, including medicinal cannabis, within six months of application?
  • Yes
  • No

11
Have you illegally sold marijuana, including medicinal cannabis, within one year of application?
  • Yes
  • No

12
Have you illegally bought, sold, or trafficked, as defined in KRS 218A.010 and KRS 218A.1431, controlled substances, other than marijuana, within six years of application?
  • Yes
  • No

13
Have you used an illegal controlled substance other than marijuana within the last six years of application?
  • Yes
  • No

14
How many times (total) have you used a prescription-controlled substance without a prescription in the last six years?
  • 0
  • 1
  • 2 or more

15
If you have used a prescription-controlled substance without a prescription in the past six years, what was the month and year of each usage without a prescription? If no usage, please type "N/A."
16
Have you engaged in sexual abuse in a prison, jail, lockup, community confinement facility, juvenile facility, or other institution (as defined in 42 U.S.C. 1997)?
  • Yes
  • No

17
Have you been convicted of engaging or attempting to engage in sexual activity in the community facilitated by force, overt or implied threats of force, or coercion, or if the victim did not consent or was unable to consent or refuse?
  • Yes
  • No

18
Have you been civilly or administratively adjudicated to have engaged in the activity described in the previous question?
  • Yes
  • No

19
Are you willing to submit to a pre-employment medical examination?
  • Yes
  • No

20
Are you willing to take a drug test?
  • Yes
  • No

21
Are you willing to take a polygraph?
  • Yes
  • No

22
Are you able to lift and restrain individuals?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question