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Regional Jail Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Meherrin River Regional Jail

Jail Officer

Alberta, VA · On-site

$52K/yr

The Meherrin River Regional Jail is an Equal Opportunity Employer. * We use E-VERIFY for All New Hires. BENEFITS PACKAGE: * HOLIDAYS: 13 paid holidays each year * VACATION: 8 hours per month ...

West Virginia

Correctional Counselor 1

Charleston, WV

$32K - $56K/yr

Other Information Adult Facilities Prisons and Jails Central Regional Jail and Correctional Facility - Braxton County (304) 765-7904 Denmar Correctional Center and Jail - Pocahontas County (304) 653 ...

West Virginia

Cook

Charleston, WV · On-site

$26K - $44K/yr

Huttonsville Correctional Center and Jail, Mount Olive Correctional Complex and Jail, Western Regional Jail and Corrections Facility, Northern Correctional Facility (including Ohio County ...

West Virginia

Cook

Charleston, WV

$26K - $44K/yr

Huttonsville Correctional Center and Jail, Mount Olive Correctional Complex and Jail, Western Regional Jail and Corrections Facility, Northern Correctional Facility (including Ohio County ...

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Regional Jail information

See salary details

$53K

$62.1K

$80.5K

How much do regional jail jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for regional jail in the United States is $62,119.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $62,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a regional jail?

A regional jail is a detention facility that serves multiple jurisdictions, such as several counties or municipalities, rather than just one. These jails are designed to consolidate resources and provide cost-effective incarceration services for the participating regions. Regional jails typically house individuals who are awaiting trial or serving short sentences, and they may offer various rehabilitation and support programs. The management and funding of regional jails are usually shared among the member jurisdictions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a regional jail officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Regional Jail Officer, you need a solid understanding of correctional procedures, security protocols, and criminal justice principles, typically supported by a high school diploma or GED and formal training at a corrections academy. Familiarity with facility management systems, surveillance technology, and incident reporting software is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, stress management, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help officers effectively interact with inmates and colleagues. These skills are vital for maintaining safety, order, and the secure operation of the jail facility.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in a regional jail environment?

Staff working in a regional jail often encounter challenges such as managing diverse inmate populations, handling high-stress situations, and maintaining safety and security protocols. The work environment requires strong communication and conflict resolution skills, as employees may need to de-escalate tense situations and collaborate closely with law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and other jail personnel. Adapting to shift work and staying updated on correctional procedures are also important aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Regional Jail vs County Jail?

AspectRegional JailCounty Jail
CredentialsHigh school diploma, correctional officer certificationHigh school diploma, correctional officer certification
Work EnvironmentMultiple counties, larger facilities, regional jurisdictionSingle county, smaller facilities, local jurisdiction
Employer & Industry UsageOperated by regional authorities or multiple countiesOperated by county government
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Regional Jails and County Jails share similar credentials and work environments, but regional jails serve multiple counties and are typically larger, operated by regional authorities. County jails are smaller, localized facilities managed by county governments. Both roles involve correctional duties, but the scope and jurisdiction differ.

More about Regional Jail jobs

What cities are hiring for Regional Jail jobs?

Cities with the most Regional Jail job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Jail jobs?

The most popular types of Jail jobs are:

What states have the most Regional Jail jobs?

States with the most job openings for Regional Jail jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Regional Jail jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Regional Jail jobs are:

Regional Jail jobs near you
Infographic showing various Regional Jail job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,119 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Regional Jail Sergeant

Western Tidewater Regional Jail

Suffolk, VA

$68K - $84K/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

WESTERN TIDEWATER REGIONAL JAIL
2402 Godwin Boulevard, Suffolk, Virginia 23434
Telephone: (757) 539-3119 Ext. 555
Sign On Bonus up to $4,000 Available!
  • Looking for a career with job security?
  • Do you want to make a difference in the lives of others?
  • Looking to make a good living, become more confident, and be a role model of strength and respect?
  • Is your work/life balance a problem?
  • Would you enjoy working only 13 days a month in a full-time position with awesome benefits?
  • Want to have access to affordable health, dental, vision amp; other benefits, including paid leave?
  • Would you like to retire at age 50 after only working 25 years?
  • Are you currently a DCJS certified Jail Officer?

IF YOU ANSWERED YES TO THESE QUESTIONS, THEN IT’S TIME YOU JOIN OUR TEAM OF JAIL OFFICERS!

Job Description
The Jail Officer is responsible for maintaining the safety and security of the facility to include all inmates, personnel, and the public.
  • Maintains custody, care, control, and security of inmates, staff, and equipment within a regional jail.
  • Directs and interacts with inmates on a constant basis while supervising daily activity and ensuring order and compliance with established rules and regulations.
  • Performs security rounds, inspects housing units, continuously monitors special status inmates, and controls doors throughout the facility in accordance with policy and standards.
  • Reviews shift pass-down and inmate information necessary for a safe and smooth shift transition.
  • Performs headcounts, feeding, and resolves inmate issues.
  • Escorts inmates to and from various locations inside and outside of the facility when necessary.
  • Enforces rules in a firm, fair, and consistent manner.
  • Provides assistance and direction to inmates on issues, procedures, behavior, and schedules.
  • Accurately prepares, maintains, and updates computerized logs and detailed reports.
  • Responds and takes action in emergency situations to include defending self and others, performs basic lifesaving activities, and provides back up support for other officers when necessary.
  • Notifies medical staff of any health conditions or symptoms with urgency when necessary.
  • Provides coaching and guidance to staff members to ensure operations are in accordance with established policy.
  • Participates in daily muster meetings to exchange critical Passdown information with staff.
  • Facilitates daily security scanning/searching of staff and their belongings to ensure safety.
  • Acts as the Watch Commander in the absence of the Lieutenant.
Benefits
Paid training and promotional opportunities.
Membership in the Virginia Retirement System with the Hazardous Duty Supplement.
Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Flexible Spending Account, Legal Resources, Life Insurance
YMCA Membership at highly discounted rates
Paid time off.
Activities Requiring Physical Fitness
1. Defensive Tactics Program: kneeling, bending, handcuffing, squatting, etc.
2. Firearms Training: kneeling, running, bending, pull pistol trigger with strong hand and off hand, holding pistol with two hands, using off hand to assist with reloads and immediate action drills (malfunctions)
3. Must be able to defend self and other when necessary.
4. Must be able to occasionally sit and work on a computer.
5. Must be able to walk extensively, run occasionally, and climb stairs.
6. Must be available to work 12-hour rotating shifts, day or night. Jail Officers are essential personnel subject to recall at any time and are required to report during emergencies and/or inclement weather events.
7. Must be able to work in a high stress environment with constant noise and occasional foul odors.

Minimum Qualifications
Must be 18 years or older with a high school diploma from an accredited high school or GED. A valid driver’s license is required. Basic basic computer skills are required. DMV transcript and criminal background checks must be acceptable. MUST BE CURRENTLY DCJS CERTIFIED TO WORK IN A REGIONAL JAIL.

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