Protective Services · Guard inmates in penal or rehabilitative institutions in accordance with established regulations and procedures
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$39–47k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$55–64k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
-7.8% · Declining
Projected decline of -7.8% from 2024 to 2034; about 30 openings projected per year.
Time to Start
1–2 years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Entry-Level Jailers
Correctional Officers and Jailers
Experienced Correctional Officers and Jailers
Senior Correctional Officers and Jailers
Director of Protective Services
You prioritize Support
This career is strongly aligned with Support — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Active Listening
Active Listening is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires short-term training (less than 1 year), which matches common student preparation goals.
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