Occupation information for

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.

Currently Employed: 1,530

Yearly Projected Openings: 60

Typical Hourly Wage: $17.21 - $28.03

Typical Annual Salary: $35,800 - $58,300

• 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.
• Search for and recapture escapees.
• 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.
• Guard facility entrances to screen visitors.
• Inspect mail for the presence of contraband.
• Maintain records of prisoners' identification and charges.