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What's the salary outlook for Correctional Officer and Jailer and is it growing?

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Government & Public ServicesDeclining

Correctional Officer and Jailer

Operational-level

Also known as: Booking Officer, Certified Detention Deputy, Civilian Jail Officer, Community Corrections Officer (CCO)

Government & Public ServicesBachelor's Degree

Job Description

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 ServicesCriminal JusticeLaw EnforcementCriminologyPublic SafetyGovernmentSocial ServicesPolice & Military

A Day in the Life

You arrive at the county detention center before your 0600 shift, the fluorescent lights already buzzing. After changing into your uniform, you strap on your duty belt, checking your keys, radio, and cuffs. In the briefing room, Sergeant Miller reviews the overnight log on a monitor, highlighting a cell transfer and a new inmate. You scan the notes for potential issues before heading to your assigned block.

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

-7.4%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

28,400

per year (US)

Jobs today

397,800

in 2025 → 368,200 (2035)

Typical entry education

High school diploma or equivalent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
High
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
High
Time spent sitting
Moderate
Working outdoors
Moderate
Indoor, climate-controlled
High
Dealing with customers
High
Level of competition
Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Declining Job Market

The job outlook for Correctional Officers and Jailers is projected to decline by 7.4% through 2035, though about 28,400 job openings are expected each year. The median annual wage is $58,940. With experience, you could advance to roles like Senior Correctional Officer or Unit Manager.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Security Guard
  • Dispatcher
  • Military Police

Where it can lead

  • Senior Correctional Officer
  • Unit Manager (Corrections)
  • Warden Assistant

Impact of AI on this Job

AI could automate some surveillance tasks, data analysis, and predictive analytics for inmate behavior, potentially enhancing security and efficiency. However, the core functions of direct supervision, conflict resolution, and human interaction will remain crucial. Officers might shift their focus more towards intervention and rehabilitation, leveraging AI tools for support.