How to Become a Correctional Officers and Jailer in 2026
Median salary: $57,970 · -7.8% projected decline (2024–2034)
What does a Correctional Officers and Jailer do?
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.
Correctional Officers and Jailer Salary in 2026
The median annual salary for Correctional Officers and Jailers is $57,970. The bottom 10% earn around $41,750 while the top 10% earn over $93,000.
| Experience level | Annual salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (P10) | $41,750 |
| Early career (P25) | $47,520 |
| Median | $57,970 |
| Experienced (P75) | $75,330 |
| Top earners (P90) | $93,000 |
Highest-paying metros
Correctional Officers and Jailer salary by state
| State | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Californiatop | $95,840 |
| New Jersey | $90,150 |
| Oregon | $83,120 |
| Massachusetts | $78,830 |
| Illinois | $78,750 |
| Nevada | $76,800 |
| Washington | $76,400 |
| New York | $75,330 |
| Wisconsin | $74,490 |
| Alaska | $71,360 |
| Hawaii | $66,250 |
| Michigan | $65,250 |
| Minnesota | $64,670 |
| Pennsylvania | $63,540 |
| Connecticut | $62,690 |
| Nebraska | $62,680 |
| Maryland | $62,380 |
| New Hampshire | $61,420 |
| Utah | $61,340 |
| Delaware | $61,000 |
| Colorado | $60,670 |
| Rhode Island | $60,170 |
| Ohio | $58,840 |
| North Dakota | $55,760 |
| Arizona | $54,970 |
| South Dakota | $52,310 |
| Wyoming | $51,740 |
| Tennessee | $51,490 |
| Idaho | $51,440 |
| Iowa | $51,420 |
| Maine | $51,270 |
| Texas | $51,020 |
| West Virginia | $49,990 |
| Virginia | $49,980 |
| Montana | $49,700 |
| Vermont | $49,110 |
| North Carolina | $49,080 |
| South Carolina | $48,470 |
| Florida | $48,260 |
| New Mexico | $47,420 |
| Alabama | $46,400 |
| Kansas | $46,080 |
| Indiana | $45,970 |
| Oklahoma | $45,970 |
| Georgia | $44,500 |
| Louisiana | $41,820 |
| Missouri | $41,310 |
| Arkansas | $40,330 |
| Kentucky | $40,230 |
| Mississippi | $36,710 |
How to earn more as a Correctional Officers and Jailer
The salary range for Correctional Officers and Jailers spans $51,250 — from $41,750 at entry level to $93,000 for top earners. The highest-paying metro area is San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA at $131,210 — $73,240 above the national median. Union membership, additional certifications, and supervisory experience are the most reliable paths to higher earnings in this field.
How to get there
Typical education: High school diploma or equivalent
On-the-job training: Moderate-term on-the-job training
Starting from high school
- Complete on-the-job training (moderate-term on-the-job training)
- Earn industry-recognized certifications (POST certification, EMT/Paramedic, state-specific law enforcement academy)
- Complete OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour safety certification ($25–$200)
- Gain 1–2 years of supervised work experience
- Advance to journeyman level or specialized role
Most entry-level positions provide on-the-job training. Look for apprenticeship programs through unions, trade associations, or the Department of Labor's ApprenticeshipUSA program. Community colleges and vocational schools offer certificate programs that can be completed in 6–12 months. OSHA safety certifications are widely valued and often required.
Many employers provide paid training. Union apprenticeships are typically paid from day one. Trade school programs may require tuition.
Switching from another career
- Assess which of your existing skills transfer (many do — see below)
- Complete a short certification or orientation program (POST certification, EMT/Paramedic, state-specific law enforcement academy)
- Apply for entry-level or apprentice positions — highlight transferable skills
- Complete any required on-the-job training (often shortened for experienced workers)
- Advance faster than new entrants using your professional experience
Career changers are in demand across this field. Your existing professional skills — problem-solving, communication, time management, and work ethic — are valued by employers even if your technical skills are new. Many organizations offer orientation programs or short certification courses designed specifically for career changers. Contact industry associations, local unions, or community colleges for programs in your area.
Certification costs are typically self-funded, but some employers reimburse. Union programs are paid positions.
Already working in another career?
See how your skills transfer to Correctional Officers and Jailer — free. PathScorer maps your experience against the requirements and shows you what you already qualify for.
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The Correctional Officers and Jailer role faces above-average AI exposure. Some tasks are increasingly automatable, but the role is evolving rather than disappearing.
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Based on skill overlap analysis — these occupations share core competencies with Correctional Officers and Jailer.
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SOC: 33-3012.00 · Data: O*NET 29.1, BLS OEWS 2024, BLS Employment Projections 2024–2034