Guard inmates in penal or rehabilitative institutions in accordance with established regulations and procedures. May guard prisoners in transit between jail, courtroom, prison, or other point. Includes deputy sheriffs and police who spend the majority of their time guarding prisoners in correctional institutions.
SOC: 33-3012.00
Common Job Titles
Correctional Officer
Corrections Officer (CO)
Detention Officer
Jailer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
MindsetModel professional conduct and ethical behavior when establishing interpersonal relationships with inmates, colleagues, and external stakeholders.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate inmate behavior and compliance with institutional regulations through continuous monitoring of correctional facility environments to determine adherence to standards.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate conflict resolution techniques with security protocols when managing high-tension situations involving inmates and maintaining institutional safety.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess emergency situations and security threats independently in correctional facilities, making rapid decisions under pressure to protect staff and inmates.
Proficient
KnowledgePrepare detailed incident reports and documentation using jail management software and recording systems to maintain accurate records of inmate behavior and facility events.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for inmate safety and rehabilitation services while balancing security requirements with humane treatment principles in institutional settings.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret psychological and behavioral cues using social perceptiveness to identify potential security risks and mental health concerns among inmates.
Proficient
KnowledgeCoordinate security operations and staff assignments when organizing daily work schedules and prioritizing institutional safety activities.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate surveillance equipment and security systems to monitor inmate activities and facility perimeters following institutional safety procedures.
Developing
KnowledgeApply knowledge of public safety regulations and legal procedures when transporting prisoners between facilities, courtrooms, and other secure locations.
Developing
Hands-onExecute restraint and control techniques using handcuffs, leg irons, and protective equipment according to established protocols during volatile situations.
Developing
MindsetEngage with inmates requiring guidance or behavioral correction using active listening and persuasion skills to de-escalate conflicts and promote positive conduct.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Correctional Officers and Jailers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
365,380
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $41,750. 25th percentile: U.S. $47,520. 50th percentile: U.S. $57,970. 75th percentile: U.S. $75,330. 90th percentile: U.S. $93,000. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$41,750
10% of workers earn the following or more
$93,000
Workers on average earn
$62,760
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Public Safety and Security4.1/5
English Language4.0/5
Law and Government3.8/5
Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
Administration and Management3.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
