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Prison Security Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of South Dakota

Associate Warden

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$86K - $107K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position requires the skills to manage a Level V (highest security level) prison providing a safe and secure correctional environment for adult male inmates. This position requires the ability ...

BioTalent

Prison Officer

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$21.25/hr

Strong understanding of security, control, and safeguarding practices * Operational experience ... Deliver frontline custodial duties within the prison environment * Supervise and manage a diverse ...

36th District Court

Court Security Officer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$22.50 - $27/hr

Some advanced coursework in law enforcement, criminal justice or related area preferred. 2. Five (5) years prior work experience in law enforcement performing courtroom, jail or prison security, or ...

State of Washington

ELECTRONICS TECHNICIAN 4

Olympia, WA · On-site

$6.6K - $7.7K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Administer, test, troubleshoot, maintain, repair Local Area Networks, hardware, software, and equipment that operate prison security and/or communications systems. * Test, troubleshoot, maintain ...

Yavapai College

Program Manager, Prison Education

Prescott, AZ · On-site

$58K - $76K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Prison Education Program Manager serves as the primary on-site representative of Yavapai ... Ensure program operations align with correctional facility procedures, security requirements, and ...

Recovery Focus

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role is based within HMP Durham and is subject to Enhanced DBS clearance and prison security vetting. Please note: The salary listed reflects the full earning potential for this role. Starting ...

State of Michigan

Prison Counselor E9-11

Coldwater, MI · On-site

$26 - $35.85/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prison Counselor 10 One year of professional experience providing prison counseling services ... Corrections Security Representative E10, Corrections Transportation Officer E10, Resident Unit ...

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All JobsPrison Security Jobs

Prison Security information

See salary details

$28.5K

$44K

$59K

How much do prison security jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for prison security in the United States is $43,963.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $47,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is prison security?

Prison security refers to the measures, procedures, and staff roles in place to prevent escapes, maintain order, and ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and visitors within a correctional facility. This involves physical barriers like walls and fences, surveillance systems, strict protocols for movement, and trained correctional officers. The level of security can vary from minimum to maximum, depending on the type of facility and the risk posed by the inmates. Effective prison security is essential for rehabilitation efforts and the overall functioning of the justice system.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prison security officer?

To thrive as a Prison Security Officer, you need a solid understanding of security procedures, crisis management, and relevant laws, usually supported by a high school diploma and formal training or certification in corrections. Familiarity with surveillance systems, radio communication devices, and incident reporting software is typically required. Strong situational awareness, stress tolerance, and effective interpersonal communication set outstanding officers apart. These skills ensure the safety, order, and rehabilitation-focused environment necessary in correctional facilities.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by prison security officers on a daily basis?

Prison security officers frequently encounter challenges such as maintaining order among inmates, responding to unpredictable incidents, and ensuring the safety of both staff and prisoners. They must remain vigilant throughout their shifts to detect contraband, prevent escapes, and de-escalate conflicts. Effective communication and teamwork with fellow officers are essential, as is the ability to adapt to rapidly changing situations. These challenges require strong observational skills, resilience, and a commitment to upholding institutional policies.

What is the difference between Prison Security vs Jail Security?

AspectPrison SecurityJail Security
CredentialsSecurity officer certification, background checkSecurity officer certification, background check
Work EnvironmentPrisons, correctional facilitiesJails, local detention centers
Employer & IndustryState/federal correctional agenciesCounty or city detention facilities
Job FocusLong-term inmate supervision, security protocolsShort-term inmate management, intake and release

Prison Security and Jail Security roles both involve maintaining safety and order within correctional facilities. However, Prison Security typically covers long-term incarceration environments with a focus on inmate supervision and security protocols, while Jail Security often involves managing short-term detainees in local detention centers. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments but differ in scope and duration of inmate supervision.

How to get hired as a prison security?

To become a prison security officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete specialized training or certification programs. Physical fitness, good communication skills, and the ability to handle stressful situations are also important for employment in this role.

Is it hard to be a prison security officer?

Prison security officers face challenging environments that require alertness, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle stressful situations. The job often involves long shifts, potential safety risks, and the need for adherence to strict protocols, making it a demanding but essential role in the criminal justice system.
More about Prison Security jobs

What cities are hiring for Prison Security jobs?

Cities with the most Prison Security job openings:

What states have the most Prison Security jobs?

States with the most job openings for Prison Security jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Prison Security jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Prison Security jobs are:

Prison Security jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prison Security job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,963 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Prison Maintenance Supervisor I

GovernmentJobs.com

Chester, IL • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Prison Supervisor I

The Prison Supervisor I is responsible for supervising and directing the activities of inmates and prison staff to ensure that various functions within the prison are carried out in an efficient and effective manner. This position must also ensure that the institution and grounds are functional and secure and that all equipment remains in working order. Criminal background check is required.

Essential Duties

Essential Duties, Tasks and Accountabilities:

  • Provide and maintain security of the building, grounds and inmates.
  • Maintain all machines and equipment.
  • Provide daily maintenance of all buildings under prison control.
  • Provide daily removal of trash and refuse from buildings.
  • Supervise grounds crew in maintaining all prison and Pocopson property.
  • Supervise laundry area for processing Pocopson Home laundry.
  • Order, maintain and distribute supplies and tools used to accomplish maintenance and housekeeping duties for the Prison, Pocopson laundry facilities and the work release building.
  • Conduct weekly water regeneration.
  • Supervise servicing and maintenance of all County vehicles in prison charge.
  • Conduct weekly inspections of mechanical rooms and utility panels throughout the prison, work release and County-owned buildings located on the complex.
  • Conduct weekly inspections of power and emergency generators for prison and work release buildings.
  • Conduct inspections of the prison water system.
  • Conduct monthly team inspections of the Prison property.
  • Conduct monthly checks of the lighting and air-handling system.
  • Conduct monthly inspections of elevators and pressure vessels (boilers) in order to comply with state and county rules and regulations.
  • Perform other duties, tasks and special projects, as required.

Qualifications / Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
  • Six months to one year of job-related experience and/or training.
  • Completion of Basic Correctional Officer Training.
  • Demonstrates integrity and honesty.
  • Exhibits sound and accurate judgment.
  • Ability to handle and resolve recurring problems.
  • Easily adapts to changes in the work environment.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Strong leadership skills.
  • Basic skill to use a personal computer and various software packages.
  • A valid driver's license is required.
  • Experience with electrical, plumbing and locking devices.
  • Basic knowledge of phone repairs.
  • CPR and First Aid certification.
  • General understanding of Human Resources guidelines.

Preferred Skills, Knowledge & Experience:

  • Eighteen months of job-related experience in a prison security environment.
  • Complete understanding of building maintenance and security regulations to ensure compliance.
  • Strong professional ethics.
  • Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position.
  • Strong time management skills.
  • Ability to work as part of a team.
  • Ability to interface effectively with all levels of county management.
  • Trade school attendance.
  • Completion of asbestos training to maintain compliance with removal and repairs.
  • Basic electrical and plumbing knowledge and skills.
  • Basic knowledge of welding, masonry and carpentry.

Computer Skills: To perform this job successfully, an individual should have:

  • Basic Word skills
  • Basic Excel skills
  • Basic PowerPoint skills
  • Basic OutLook skills (Email and Calendar)
  • Basic Internet Explorer skills

Relevant background checks, clearances, physicals, drug tests, and any other assessments or evaluations will be conducted after an offer of employment is given per County policy.

Apply