Detention Officer vs. Correctional Officer: What Are the Differences?

A career in law enforcement can be both rewarding and challenging. Two common positions in this field are that of a detention officer and a correctional officer. Though both roles are important in maintaining safety and order, there are several key differences between them.

In this article, we discuss the differences between a detention officer and a correctional officer, and we provide additional information about careers in law enforcement.

What is a Detention Officer?

Detention Officers work in jails and prisons to monitor inmate behavior and enforce rules and regulations. They conduct security rounds, inspect cells and common areas for safety hazards and contraband, and document any incidents or infractions. Detention Officers also search inmates and their belongings for weapons or drugs, and escort them to and from their cells, meals, showers, medical appointments and court hearings. In the event of a fight or other disturbance, Detention Officers break it up and may use physical force or pepper spray to subdue inmates. They also provide customer service to inmates and their families, answering questions and addressing concerns.

What is a Correctional Officer?

Correctional Officers work in jails and prisons to oversee inmates and maintain security. They are responsible for enforcing rules and regulations, conducting searches, supervising visits and maintaining records. Correctional Officers also monitor inmates’ activities, escort them to court appearances and medical appointments and provide them with necessary information and resources. In some facilities, Correctional Officers may also be responsible for providing inmates with basic needs, such as food and clothing. They may also coordinate and lead inmate work programs.

Detention Officer vs. Correctional Officer

Here are the main differences between a detention officer and a correctional officer.

Job Duties

Both correctional officers and detention officers have similar job duties, although the tasks they complete depend on the type of facility in which they work. For example, both may be responsible for conducting patdowns, searching cells or confiscating contraband. They may also monitor inmates while they’re incarcerated to ensure their behavior remains compliant with facility rules. Another of the major differences between the two positions is that correctional officers typically oversee inmate programs and rehabilitation efforts, whereas detention officers focus primarily on maintaining order within an incarceration facility.

Job Requirements

Detention officers and correctional officers typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent to enter the field. Some agencies may require candidates to have some college experience, while others may prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field. Many detention officer and correctional officer positions also require candidates to complete on-the-job training.

Work Environment

Both correctional and detention officers work in secure facilities, such as prisons or jails. However, the environments of these facilities can differ significantly. Correctional officers typically work in more traditional prison settings with cells, fences and other security measures. Detention officers often work in less-secure facilities that don’t have many physical barriers to prevent inmates from escaping.

Correctional officers may also spend more time working directly with inmates than detention officers do. They may perform duties like conducting searches for contraband items, monitoring inmate behavior and providing medical care. Detention officers usually only interact with inmates when they’re being booked into a facility or during transportation between facilities.

Skills

There are several similarities in the skills used by detention officers and correctional officers. Both groups need to be able to communicate effectively, follow safety protocols and maintain a high level of physical fitness. They also both need to have strong interpersonal skills to deal with the individuals in their care.

However, there are some differences in the skills needed by each group. For example, detention officers typically need to have more experience with law enforcement procedures and paperwork than correctional officers. This is because they often work more closely with police officers and need to be familiar with the process of booking and processing detainees. Correctional officers, on the other hand, may need to have more experience with counseling and rehabilitation, as they often work with inmates who are serving long-term sentences.

Salary

The average salary for a detention officer is $45,368 per year, while the average salary for a correctional officer is $45,731 per year. Both of these salaries may vary depending on the state in which you work, the level of education you have and the level of experience you have in the field.