Correctional Deputy Salary and Job Description

Correctional deputies, also known as detention officers, are responsible for maintaining security and order in correctional facilities, such as jails and prisons. They perform a variety of duties, including supervising inmates, conducting searches, and transporting prisoners. Correctional deputies play a vital role in the criminal justice system, ensuring the safety of both inmates and staff.

Key Facts

  1. Average Salary: The average salary for a corrections deputy in the US ranges between $32,000 and $62,000.
  2. Hourly Rates: The hourly rates for corrections deputies typically range between $15 and $29 per hour.
  3. Highest Paying States: The highest salaries for corrections deputies can be found in Washington ($68,224), Hawaii ($64,642), and New York ($59,190).
  4. Duties: Correctional deputies are responsible for various duties, including maintaining physical custody of inmates, processing and classifying new inmates, administering first aid, supervising trustees, and transporting inmates to and from medical appointments and court hearings.

Salary

The average salary for a corrections deputy in the United States ranges between $32,000 and $62,000 per year (Zippia, 2023). Hourly rates typically fall between $15 and $29 per hour. However, salaries can vary depending on several factors, including experience, location, and employer.

The highest-paying states for corrections deputies are Washington ($68,224), Hawaii ($64,642), and New York ($59,190). Additionally, corrections deputies working for the federal government or in large metropolitan areas tend to earn higher salaries.

Job Description

Correctional deputies perform a variety of duties, including:

  • Maintaining physical custody of inmates: Correctional deputies are responsible for ensuring the safety and security of inmates. This includes conducting regular cell checks, monitoring inmate movement, and responding to incidents.
  • Processing and classifying new inmates: Correctional deputies process new inmates into the facility. This includes collecting personal information, conducting searches, and assigning inmates to cells.
  • Administering first aid: Correctional deputies are often the first responders to medical emergencies in correctional facilities. They are trained to provide basic first aid and CPR.
  • Supervising trustees: Correctional deputies supervise inmates who have been assigned to work details. This may include cleaning the facility, performing maintenance tasks, or working in the kitchen.
  • Transporting inmates: Correctional deputies transport inmates to and from medical appointments, court hearings, and other locations. This may involve driving a van or bus or escorting inmates on foot.

Conclusion

Correctional deputies play a vital role in the criminal justice system. They are responsible for maintaining security and order in correctional facilities, ensuring the safety of both inmates and staff. The salary for a correctional deputy can vary depending on experience, location, and employer, but the average salary in the United States ranges between $32,000 and $62,000 per year.

Sources

  • Zippia. (2023). Corrections Deputy Salary. Retrieved from https://www.zippia.com/corrections-deputy-jobs/salary/
  • GovernmentJobs. (n.d.). Correctional Deputy I. Retrieved from https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sonoma/jobs/2259536/correctional-deputy-i?keywords=deputy&pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs
  • Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. (n.d.). Corrections Deputy. Retrieved from https://www.sarasotasheriff.org/get_involved/join_our_team/corrections_deputy.php

FAQs

What is the average salary for a correctional deputy in the US?

The average salary for a correctional deputy in the US ranges between $32,000 and $62,000 per year.

What are the highest-paying states for correctional deputies?

The highest-paying states for correctional deputies are Washington ($68,224), Hawaii ($64,642), and New York ($59,190).

What factors affect a correctional deputy’s salary?

Factors that can affect a correctional deputy’s salary include experience, location, and employer. Correctional deputies working for the federal government or in large metropolitan areas tend to earn higher salaries.

What are the duties of a correctional deputy?

Correctional deputies perform a variety of duties, including maintaining physical custody of inmates, processing and classifying new inmates, administering first aid, supervising trustees, and transporting inmates to and from medical appointments and court hearings.

What is the job outlook for correctional deputies?

The job outlook for correctional deputies is expected to be good over the next few years. As the population continues to grow, so too will the need for correctional facilities and the staff to operate them.

What are the education and training requirements for correctional deputies?

Most correctional deputies are required to have a high school diploma or GED. Some employers may also require candidates to have completed a criminal justice program or have prior experience in law enforcement or the military.

What are the benefits of working as a correctional deputy?

Benefits of working as a correctional deputy can include a competitive salary, health insurance, retirement benefits, and the opportunity to make a difference in the community.

What are the challenges of working as a correctional deputy?

Challenges of working as a correctional deputy can include working in a high-stress environment, dealing with difficult inmates, and the potential for violence.