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Prison Security Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

... County Prison. This position is responsible for protecting the public as well as fulfilling the ... The work consists of related administrative, supervisory, and security duties.The starting salary ...

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Prison Security information

See Georgia salary details

$24.1K

$37.1K

$49.8K

How much do prison security jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for prison security in Georgia is $37,121.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,100.00 and $40,100.00 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.

What cities in Georgia are hiring for Prison Security jobs?

Cities in Georgia with the most Prison Security job openings:

Infographic showing various Prison Security job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,121 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Assistant Director of Security - Aaron Cohn RYDC - Columbus, GA (FSC)

State of Georgia

Columbus, GA • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


State Of Georgia rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 50 rated states


Job description

Explore a World of Opportunity with the State of Georgia!
We are the force that drives Georgia!
Georgia State Government is a large enterprise, composed of various agencies and entities with a common goal to improve the lives of Georgia's more than 10 million citizens!
Join Team Georgia and impact lives everyday while receiving a robust benefits package designed for every stage of your career!
Job Title:
Assistant Director of Security - Aaron Cohn RYDC - Columbus, GA (FSC)
Job Requisition ID:
JR0000002637
Number of Openings:
1
Shift:
Any (United States of America)
Compensation Details:
$70,330.23
Job Description:
Manages the operation and administration of a correctional institution or unit. Develops and implements appropriate security and facility policies and procedures. Directs subordinate supervisors as well as other institutional staff.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Directs and personally monitors state prison security functions and activities to maintain the custody and security of prisoners
  • Identifies training needs and provides guidance and training to correctional staff
  • Interviews, hires, directs, trains, evaluates the performance of, and when necessary, disciplines and discharges corrections employees
  • Manages human resources and directs administrative activities for corrections staff
  • Manages the operations and activities of correctional facilities and detention centers
  • Monitors budget activities of correctional facilities
  • Monitors, inspects, and evaluates operations, programs, services, activities, and conditions
  • Oversees and/or conducts inspections, searches, investigations, and evaluations
  • Performs crisis response, containment, and intervention in emergencies
  • Plans, implements, directs, and coordinates various correctional programs and activities

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited college or university and three (3) years of closely job-related experience in a criminal justice or correctional system.
  • Or three (3) years of supervisory custodial experience in a criminal justice or correctional system, one (1) year of which is at a level equivalent to a manager in a law enforcement setting.

Note: Some positions may require P.O.S.T. certification and agency-specific training and or certification.
Physical Agility Standards:
This position requires the ability to perform physically demanding activities associated with maintaining safety and security within our secured facilities and community settings. Candidates must be capable of meeting agency-established physical agility standards and may be required to successfully complete a validated physical agility assessment before hiring and at other intervals as required by agency policy.
The Department of Juvenile Justice reserves the right to modify physical agility standards and testing requirements as necessary to meet operational, legal, accreditation, certification, or safety requirements.
Benefits:
In addition to a competitive salary & benefits, GA Department of Juvenile Justice is part of a statewide initiative called Total Rewards that seeks to attract and retain employees by supplementing their base pay and benefits with programs designed to improve the quality of their work environment and lead to greater job satisfaction and work/life balance. Eligible employees are offered generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave. We are a qualified employer for the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
For more information, visit https://djj.georgia.gov/Online-Applications/employee-benefits
THIS IS AN INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
THIS IS AN UNCLASSIFIED POSITION.
THE SELECTED APPLICANT FOR THE POSITION WILL BE SUBJECT TO A REFERENCE CHECK AND CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK, WHERE APPLICABLE
PLEASE INCLUDE ALL RELEVANT JOB INFORMATION ON THE APPLICATION FOR CONSIDERATION.
ALL APPLICATIONS WILL BE PRESCREENED.
DJJ IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited college or university and three (3) years of closely job-related experience in a criminal justice or correctional system; or three (3) years of supervisory custodial experience in a criminal justice or correctional system, one (1) year of which is at a level equivalent to a manager in a law enforcement setting. --Note: Some positions may require P.O.S.T. certification and agency-specific training and or certification.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
The State of Georgia does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other protected categories in employment or the provision of services.
Qualified applicants may request reasonable accommodation when needed during the application and/or screening process by contacting the appropriate agency Human Resources department.

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