National
| Median wages (2008) |
$18.45 hourly, $38,380 annual |
| Employment (2006) |
442,000 employees |
| Projected growth (2006-2016) |
Faster than average (14% to 20%)
|
| Projected need (2006-2016) |
175,000 additional employees |
33-3012.00 - Correctional Officers and Jailers
Guard inmates in penal or rehabilitative institution 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.
Sample of reported job titles:
Correctional Officer, Corrections Officer (CO), Jailer, Detention Deputy, Detention Officer, Correctional Sergeant, Deputy Jailer, Booking Officer, Jailor, Public Safety Officer
Tasks
- Conduct head counts to ensure that each prisoner is present.
- 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.
- Inspect conditions of locks, window bars, grills, doors, and gates at correctional facilities to ensure security and help prevent escapes.
- Record information, such as prisoner identification, charges, and incidences of inmate disturbance, and keep daily logs of prisoner activities.
- Search prisoners and vehicles and conduct shakedowns of cells for valuables and contraband, such as weapons or drugs.
- Use weapons, handcuffs, and physical force to maintain discipline and order among prisoners.
- Inspect mail for the presence of contraband.
- Guard facility entrances to screen visitors.
- Maintain records of prisoners' identification and charges.
- Process or book convicted individuals into prison.
