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Prison Guard Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Prison Guard information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$12

$20

$26

How much do prison guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for prison guard in Modesto, CA is $20.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $19.76 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 Modesto, CA?

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

What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Prison Guard jobs?

Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Prison Guard job openings:

Infographic showing various Prison Guard job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,768 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Environmental Services Technician

PRIDE Industries

Stockton, CA • On-site

$22.94/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


PRIDE Industries rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 224 rated education and training


Job description

Pay Rate$22.94 per hourTelecommute StatusOnsiteAnnouncement

PRIDE Industries is a fast-paced company with a mission: To Create Jobs for People with Disabilities while providing high quality, value-added solutions to our nationwide customers. We are currently recruiting to fill the following position:

Job Description

PRIDE Industries

Job Description

Job: Environmental Services Technician

Job Code: L35 - CD-EnvSvcs Technician

HR Title Group: Hospital Housekeeping

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Approval Date: October 2017

SUPERVISES:  There are no direct reports with this position.

POSITION SUMMARY:  Under close supervision the Environmental Services Technician performs environmental services functions for a healthcare facility.  Employees in this job class perform a variety of functions to assure facilities are clean and free of safety hazards. This job class requires knowledge of custodial practices and the ability to organize and manage multiple projects.

TYPICAL DUTIES:1. *Cleans, dusts, and polishes cabinets, furniture, lockers, and woodwork following safety protocols are infection control procedures.2. *Cleans stairwells, hallways, rest rooms, offices and cells. (Cell cleaning includes removal of mattress and trash).3. *Cleans wall surfaces, ceilings, baseboards, floor surfaces, doors, venetian blinds, ledges, vents, toilets, metal fixtures, shelves, furniture, privacy stalls, windows, and light fixtures;4. *Empty and clean waste receptacles; vacuum floors; assist in moving and arranging furniture and equipment as needed;5. *Disinfect and sanitize areas, stock and refill bathroom dispensers with papers, sanitary, and soap products.6. *Selecting proper cleaning materials and supplies in order to complete daily tasks;7. *Reads, interprets and follows material safety data sheets and chemical/cleaning product directions for use and warning/precaution information.8. *Responsible for scheduled pickups of trash, biohazard waste bins for facility.9. *Technicians are required to work any shift and schedule in a variety of settings throughout the hospital and may be required to work overtime and float to other work locations as determined by the operational needs of the hospital.10. *Maintains storage closet.11. *Responds to environmental emergencies and requests for assistance.12.  *Must be able to communicate with guards and staff.13.  Performs other duties and special projects as assigned.

* Denotes Essential Job Function

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Experience in custodial work in a hospital setting preferred;  Ability to learn methods of cleaning and caring for hospital facilities; Ability to read and follow written instructions on labels for proper and save use of chemicals, supplies and equipment; Ability to communicate effectively and to present information and respond to questions from clients, customers and others; Human relations skills to build effective working relationships with staff, customers, and others; Flexibility to adapt to changing work priorities.

MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:  This position requires the ability to have and maintain sufficient strength, agility and endurance to perform during stressful (physical, mental, and emotional) situations encountered on the job without compromising the employee's health and well-being or that of their co-workers or inmates.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

High School Diploma or GED

CERTIFICATES OR LICENSES REQUIRED:

The following licenses or certificates may be required depending on local, state and/or contract requirements:

Not Applicable

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Employees must have the ability to perform the following physical demands for extended periods of time with or without assistance:

Maneuvering in and around the worksite Standing and walking Bending, kneeling, reaching, and stooping Lifting boxes or equipment weighing up to 35 pounds, and up to 50 pounds occasionally Pushing or pulling objects such as vacuums, carts, mops, etc. May be required to push/pull equipment weighing up to 70 pounds Grasping both small & large objects Climbing ladders and/or step stools

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed in a prison healthcare facility with specialized needs for security and environmental control. Employees may be required to work confined space, and in aseptic areas with exposure to dirt, dust, odors, toxic chemicals, and infectious disease; and will work in high security areas with protocols. Employees may also be exposed to, depending on the weather, elements such as wind, rain, cold, and heat.

DISCLAIMER:

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to this job. Employees are expected to follow their supervisor's instructions and to perform the tasks requested by their supervisors.

At PRIDE, we make a difference in the lives of many, one job at a time.

How to Apply

Ready to make an impact?Join an organization where business meets purpose and every role contributes to a greater mission. Apply today at PRIDE Careers and be part of something meaningful.

Learn more about who we are and what we stand for at www.prideindustries.com.

PRIDE Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Thank you for considering a career with us-we look forward to connecting with you!

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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