How Do I Become a Detention Officer?

To become a detention officer, you will usually have to meet jurisdiction-specific requirements. In most places, you will need at least a high school diploma or an equivalent credential that is officially recognized in the area. In some places, however, you may enjoy preferred status as a job candidate if you earn an associate's or bachelor's degree instead. Gaining experience in a law enforcement position or in the military may also help to improve your chances of landing this job. Often, there are age and citizenship requirements, and you will likely have to pass a criminal background check and demonstrate your physical and mental suitability for this job.

Requirements a person must meet to become a detention officer vary by jurisdictions. Often, however, age and citizenship are important when you are seeking this type of job. In many places, you also have to be a minimum of 18 or 21 years old to qualify. Some jurisdictions also only accept applicants who are citizens or permanent residents for these positions.

As far as education is concerned, a high school education or a general educational development (GED) diploma is usually required for landing this job. Some jurisdictions set additional education requirements, however. For example, some may require applicants to have completed a minimum number of college credits while others prefer applicants who hold associate's or bachelor's degrees. Some national detention centers might even require you to have both a four-year college degree and a minimum amount of experience to become a detention officer.

Some types of related experience can also boost your chances of qualifying to become a detention officer. For example, you may have a better chance of landing this job if you have experience as a police officer or in another type of law enforcement. Past military experience might improve your chances as well.

You may also have to show that you are suitable for work as a detention officer in order to land this job. For example, you will likely have to pass a criminal background check and prove that you are free of felony convictions to qualify. You may also have to demonstrate that you are physically capable of performing the required tasks. In many cases, your mental health will count as well, and you may have to submit to a psychological examination. Additionally, drug screening is often a requirement when you want to become a detention officer.