Correctional Officer - Waco, TX

MissionHires; Waco (TX); On-site; USD 51,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Overtime pay

Night-shift differential

Health insurance

Paid holidays

Paid time off

Job summary

The McLennan County Sheriff's Office is seeking full-time Correctional Officers/Jailers to support safe, secure, and professional county jail operations. This entry-level public safety role includes comprehensive training and opportunities for advancement across the Sheriff’s Office.

Responsibilities include supervising inmates, conducting checks, processing intake paperwork, conducting searches, and responding to emergencies.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Must be at least 18 years old on or before date of hire.
• U.S. citizenship required.
• Valid Texas driver’s license with safe driving record.
• Physically able to meet demands including lifting up to 20 pounds and responding to emergencies.
• Professional demeanor, sound decisions under pressure, and effective teamwork.
• Background check, drug screen, psychological assessment, and physical exam required.
• TCLEOSE Jailer Certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Supervise inmates to maintain safety, security, and order.
• Conduct regular inmate checks and identify rule infractions and safety concerns.
• Process inmates through intake and ensure paperwork is complete.
• Conduct searches for weapons, contraband, and prohibited items.
• Observe inmate behavior and respond to emergencies and critical situations.
• Supervise inmate activities, meal distribution, and work crews.
• Maintain professionalism in hostile or high-pressure environments.
• Interact respectfully with inmates, staff, and the public.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Physical fitness

Decision making

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

The McLennan County Sheriff’s Office is seeking full-time Correctional Officers/Jailers to support safe, secure, and professional county jail operations. This entry-level public safety role includes comprehensive training, opportunities for advancement across the Sheriff’s Office, and the chance to serve the McLennan County community with integrity and accountability.

Responsibilities

• Supervise inmates to maintain the safety, security, and orderly operation of the county jail.
• Conduct regular inmate checks and identify rule infractions, safety concerns, and unauthorized activities.
• Process inmates through intake and ensure required documentation is completed accurately.
• Conduct searches for weapons, contraband, and other prohibited items.
• Observe inmate behavior and take appropriate action during emergencies and other critical situations.
• Supervise inmate activities, including meal distribution and work crews.
• Maintain professionalism when working in hostile or high-pressure environments.
• Interact respectfully and effectively with inmates, staff members, and the public.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Must be at least 18 years old on or before the date of hire.
• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Valid Texas driver’s license with a safe driving record.
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including safely lifting up to 20 pounds and responding to emergency situations.
• Ability to remain professional, make sound decisions under pressure, and work effectively in challenging environments.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Must successfully pass a background check, drug screening, psychological assessment, and physical examination.
• TCLEOSE Jailer Certification in good standing is preferred.

Benefits

• Annual base salary of $51,418 to $66,796, depending on experience.
• Eligible licensed TCOLE Jailers may receive credit for up to four years of prior service toward step pay.
• Overtime pay at time and a half.
• Night-shift differential pay.
• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and Health Savings Account benefits beginning on day one.
• Free gym membership and additional benefits.
• Participation in the Texas County & District Retirement System, including a $2.50 County match for every $1.00 contributed by the employee.
• 14 paid holidays and more than 170 hours of paid time off annually.
• Comprehensive on-the-job training and opportunities for career advancement.
• Potential advancement opportunities in specialized assignments and divisions, including the Sheriff’s Response Team, patrol/courthouse operations, investigations, compliance, SWAT, training, and agency administration.