Jailer vs. Correctional Officer: What Are the Differences?

A career in corrections can be both challenging and rewarding. Two common positions in this field are that of a jailer and a correctional officer. Though both roles work with inmates, there are several key differences between them.

In this article, we discuss the differences between a jailer and a correctional officer, and we provide additional information about working in corrections.

What is a Jailer?

Jailers work in detention centers and are responsible for the safety and security of inmates. They monitor inmate behavior, conduct head counts and pat-down searches, and document any incidents. Jailers also serve meals, distribute medications and provide other basic needs to inmates. They may also transport inmates to and from court appearances or medical appointments. Jailers must be able to maintain order in a sometimes chaotic environment and de-escalate tense situations. They must also have excellent communication and documentation skills.

What is a Correctional Officer?

Correctional Officers work in prisons and jails to supervise and secure inmates. They maintain order within the facility and enforce rules and regulations. Correctional Officers conduct searches of inmates and their living quarters to prevent contraband from entering the facility. They also inspect mail and packages to ensure they meet prison guidelines. Correctional Officers escort inmates to and from court appearances, medical appointments and other activities. They may also transport inmates to other facilities. Correctional Officers document their observations and write reports on inmate behavior.

Jailer vs. Correctional Officer

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

Job Duties

One of the biggest differences between a jailer and a correctional officer is the type of duties they perform. A jailer typically performs only tasks related to operating and maintaining a jail facility. This can include things like ensuring the security of the building, searching inmates before they enter and conducting strip searches. They may also be responsible for feeding and housing inmates and maintaining inmate records.

A correctional officer, however, performs many more duties related to overseeing and managing inmates. Correctional officers are responsible for making sure inmates follow rules, like when they’re allowed to eat meals or go to bed at night. They may monitor activities like inmate education programs and assist medical professionals with inmate healthcare needs.

Job Requirements

Jailers 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 agencies also offer on-the-job training for new hires. After completing their training, jailers and correctional officers must obtain certification from their state.

Work Environment

Jailers work in correctional facilities, which are secure locations where people who have been arrested or convicted of a crime can be held until their release. Jailers may work for local jails, state prisons or federal prisons. They typically work during the day and night shifts to ensure that inmates remain safe and follow facility rules.

Correctional officers also work in correctional facilities but often work in prisons rather than jails. Correctional officers usually work during the day shift because they oversee inmate activities such as meals, recreation time and education programs.

Skills

Both jailers and correctional officers require several similar skills to perform their jobs, such as customer service, communication, interpersonal skills, and physical strength. However, their differing responsibilities result in the requirement for different skills. For example, jailers benefit from having conflict resolution skills when working with inmates. Skills like patience, empathy, and active listening enable them to understand inmates’ needs and resolve conflicts peacefully.

Because correctional officers often work with more complex systems, they may use more specialized skills. For example, they apply security procedures, such as searching inmates and their belongings, monitoring inmate activity, and escorting inmates to and from areas within the facility. As the inmates they work with are often dangerous criminals, they also benefit from having self-defense skills.

Salary

The average salary for a jailer is $40,773 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.