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.
Scoop
Minimum Education
High School Diploma or GED
Career Prospects
Risky (Decreasing by 5% or more)
Training Time
6 months to 1 year
Job Openings
29,100 Annually
Median Earnings
$93,160 in California
$53,300 Nationally
$0
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Day-to-Day
Conduct head counts to ensure that each prisoner is present.
Inspect conditions of locks, window bars, grills, doors, and gates at correctional facilities to ensure security and help prevent escapes.
Monitor conduct of prisoners in housing unit, or during work or recreational activities, according to established policies, regulations, and procedures, to prevent escape or violence.
Search prisoners and vehicles and conduct shakedowns of cells for valuables and contraband, such as weapons or drugs.
Maintain records of prisoners' identification and charges.
Real Talk Reel
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@angeleyes_312/Angel Johnson
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Best For You If...
YOU Like 💕
Influencing or leading others
Using data or completing tasks
Working with my hands
You are skilled in 💫
Active Listening
Coordination
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Social Perceptiveness
Speaking
You value 🙏
Having support
Having freedom
Personal relationships
Deep Dive
Correctional Officer
Explore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
Pathways to this Career
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
