Summary
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Quick Facts: Correctional Officers and Bailiffs | |
---|---|
$43,510 per year
$20.92 per hour |
|
High school diploma or equivalent | |
None | |
Moderate-term on-the-job training | |
468,600 | |
-7% (Decline) | |
-34,900 |
What Correctional Officers and Bailiffs Do
Correctional officers are responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in jail or prison. Bailiffs are law enforcement officers who maintain safety and order in courtrooms.
Work Environment
Working in a correctional institution can be stressful and dangerous. Correctional officers have one of the highest rates of injuries and illnesses, often resulting from confrontations with inmates. Officers work in shifts that cover all hours of the day and night, including weekends and holidays. Bailiffs’ hours are determined by when court is in session.
How to Become a Correctional Officer or Bailiff
Correctional officers go through a training academy and then are assigned to a facility for on-the-job training. Although qualifications vary by state and agency, all agencies require a high school diploma and have an age requirement. Some federal agencies also require some college education or related work experience.
Pay
The median annual wage for bailiffs was $42,960 in May 2017.
The median annual wage for correctional officers and jailers was $43,540 in May 2017.
Job Outlook
Employment of correctional officers and bailiffs is projected to decline 7 percent from 2016 to 2026. State and local budget constraints and prison population levels will determine how many correctional officers are necessary.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for correctional officers and bailiffs.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of correctional officers and bailiffs with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about correctional officers and bailiffs by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.