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Prison Guard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$68K/yr

This department includes state prisons with custody, healthcare, and facility operations staff as ... Veterans' and National Guard Preference: Applicants seeking Veteran's Preference must attach a DD ...

Dental Assistant

Lisbon, OH

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

... of Prisons, Field Acquisition Office in Lisbon, OH. If you're passionate about delivering top ... Explain the common causes of tooth decay and construct sports/safety mouth guards and soft night ...

Dental Assistant

Lisbon, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

... of Prisons, Field Acquisition Office in Lisbon, OH. If you're passionate about delivering top ... Explain the common causes of tooth decay and construct sports/safety mouth guards and soft night ...

Dental Assistant

Lisbon, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

... of Prisons, Field Acquisition Office in Lisbon, OH. If you're passionate about delivering top ... Explain the common causes of tooth decay and construct sports/safety mouth guards and soft night ...

Security Officer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

... leaving prison on their healing journey, giving participants an opportunity to lead joyful ... Ability to obtain and maintain an armed security guard license where applicable * Driver's License

Security Staff

Kalispell, MT · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, NOTICES Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) - Any person who has 1) engaged in sexual abuse in a prison, jail, lockup ...

Security Staff

Kalispell, MT

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, NOTICES Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) - Any person who has 1) engaged in sexual abuse in a prison, jail, lockup ...

Security Staff

Kalispell, MT

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, NOTICES Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) - Any person who has 1) engaged in sexual abuse in a prison, jail, lockup ...

Security Staff

Kalispell, MT

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, NOTICES Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) - Any person who has 1) engaged in sexual abuse in a prison, jail, lockup ...

Bailiff I

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$26.08 - $33.03/hr

Provides security to judicial building courtrooms; oversees inmates in courtrooms and holding areas; escorts inmates to court from jail, prisons, mental health facilities, or other facilities; guards ...

Bailiff I

Bemidji, MN

$26.08 - $33.03/hr

... jail, prisons, mental health facilities, or other facilities; guards inmates in medical facilities. Provides security to those under court protection; maintains order and ensures security in ...

Showing results 41-60

Prison Guard information

See salary details

$11

$19

$25

How much do prison guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for prison 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.

Are prison guards well paid?

Prison guards typically earn a median annual salary that varies by location and experience, with many positions offering competitive pay within the criminal justice field. Salaries can increase with additional certifications, specialized training, and years of service, but overall compensation is generally considered moderate compared to other law enforcement roles.

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.

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 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.

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 requires strong communication skills, physical fitness, and adherence to safety protocols; it often involves shift work and exposure to potentially dangerous situations. Career advancement can lead to supervisory roles, and the job offers benefits such as pension plans and health insurance.

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 cities are hiring for Prison Guard jobs? Cities with the most Prison Guard job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Prison Guard jobs? The top employers for Prison Guard jobs are:
What states have the most Prison Guard jobs? States with the most job openings for Prison Guard jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Prison Guard jobs? For Prison Guard jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Prison Guard job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,591 per year, or $19 per hour.

$68K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

About Us

The NC Department of Adult Correction is one of the largest state agencies with more than 14,000 employees. It is responsible for safeguarding and preserving lives and property through prevention, protection, and preparation as well as the care, custody, and supervision of all adults sentenced for violating North Carolina laws. This department includes state prisons with custody, healthcare, and facility operations staff as well as probation/parole officers who supervised sentenced people in the community. Other divisions include Administration, Health Services, Rehabilitation & Reentry, Special Operations and the Post-Release Supervision & Parole Commission. We have a mission that matters!

Description of Work

This is a position at Piedmont Correctional Institution located in Salisbury, N.C. (Rowan County), which is a Medium male prison facility housing 800 inmates. Position will report to Maintenance Supervisor.
KEY DUTIES:
1. HVAC System Maintenance
2. Repair & Troubleshooting
3. Facility Climate Control
4. Safety Compliance
5. Equipment Inspection & Testing
6. Preventive Maintenance Programs
7. Documentation & Reporting
8. Emergency Response Support
9. Teamwork & Communication

Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences

Salary Grade: $ 39,244-$68,679 Salary Range: NC08

Candidates now meet the minimum qualifications of a position if they meet the minimum education and experience listed on the vacancy announcement. The Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)/ Management Preferences are not required. Applicants who possess the following skills are preferred:

Management Preferences:

  • Documented experience in HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) Systems.
  • Documented knowledge in reading blueprints, schematic and wiring diagrams.

***This is a REPOST...previous applicants Need Not reapply to be considered***

The Posting Will Close At 11:59 P.M. The Night Before the End Date.

State Benefits Information:

The State of North Carolina offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Health Insurance options

  • Retirement Plans
  • NCFlex Supplemental Benefits
  • Paid Vacation, Sick, and Community Service Leave
  • Paid Parental Leave

Visit the State Benefits website for additional information

Note to Current State Employees:
The salary grade for this position is NC08. State employees are encouraged to apply for positions of interest even if the salary grade is the same as, or lower than, their current position. If selected for this position, a new salary will be recalculated taking into consideration the quantity of relevant education and experience, funding availability, and internal equity. Based upon these factors, a pay increase MAY result.

The Posting Will Close At 11:59 P.M. The Night Before The End Date.

About Us

The NC Department of Adult Correction is one of the largest state agencies with more than 14,000 employees. It is responsible for safeguarding and preserving lives and property through prevention, protection, and preparation as well as the care, custody, and supervision of all adults sentenced for violating North Carolina laws. This department includes state prisons with custody, healthcare, and facility operations staff as well as probation/parole officers who supervised sentenced people in the community. Other divisions include Administration, Health Services, Rehabilitation & Reentry, Special Operations and the Post-Release Supervision & Parole Commission. We have a mission that matters!

About The Division of Institutions:

The Division of Institutions manages the daily operations of all state-operated prison facilities across North Carolina. Facilities are categorized by custody levels (minimum, medium, close) and house individuals serving sentences for felony convictions. The division provides safety, security, and rehabilitative services through trained custody staff, program facilitators, and administrative personnel.

Application Process:

NCDAC uses the Merit-Based Recruitment and Selection Plan to fill positions with the most qualified individuals. Hiring salary will be based on relevant qualifications, internal equity, and budgetary considerations pertinent to the advertised position.

Applicants must complete the application in full. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing the State application.

Applications must include:

Complete education history (including high school)

Full work experience details

Certificates and licenses, if applicable

Education must be from appropriately accredited institutions.

Information provided must support responses to supplemental questions. Incomplete applications may impact screening and salary determination.

If multiple applications are submitted, only the most recent application received before the closing date will be considered.

Veterans’ and National Guard Preference:

Applicants seeking Veteran's Preference must attach a DD-214 Member-4 Form (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) to their applications.

Applicants seeking National Guard Preference must attach an NGB 23A (RPAS), along with the state application, if they are a current member of the NC National Guard in good standing.

Applicants who are former members of either the NC Army National Guard or the NC Air National Guard, with honorable discharge and six years of creditable service, must attach a copy of the DD 256 or NGB 22, along with the state application.

PREA Requirement:

The NC Dept. of Adult Correction must adhere to the US Dept. of Justice Final Rule on the "National Standards to Prevent, Detect, and Respond to Prison Rape." Click this link for information on hiring and promotion prohibition requirements for all positions in the NC Dept. of Adult Correction: PREA Hiring and Promotion Prohibitions

ADA Accommodations:

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), NCDAC is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact the person indicated below.

Minimum Education and Experience

Some state job postings say you can qualify by an “equivalent combination of education and experience.” If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See the Education and Experience Equivalency Guide for details.

High school or General Educational Development (GED) diploma and three years of progressive experience in the installation, maintenance or repair of air conditioning chillers, air handling, chilled water distribution and control systems; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Necessary Special Qualifications Requires current certification by the Environmental Protection Agency as a Type I, II, III or Universal technician as required by Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations part 82, subpart F.

EEO Statement

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.


Employment Type: Full Time
Bonus/Commission: No