A professional who guards inmates in penal institution in accordance with established policies, regulations, and procedures. Respnsibilities include:

• Observes conduct and behavior of inmates to prevent disturbances and escapes.
• Inspects locks, window bars, grills, doors, and gates for tampering.
• Searches inmates and cells for contraband articles.
• Guards and directs inmates during work assignments.
• Patrols assigned areas for evidence of forbidden activities, infraction of rules, and unsatisfactory attitude or adjustment of prisoners.
• Reports observations to superior.
• Employs weapons or force to maintain discipline and order among prisoners, if necessary.
• May escort inmates to and from visiting room, medical office, and religious services.
• May guard entrance of jail to screen visitors.
• May prepare written report concerning incidences of inmate disturbances or injuries.
• May be designated according to institution as Correction Officer, City Or County Jail; Correction Officer, Penitentiary; Correction Officer, Reformatory.
• May guard prisoners in transit between jail, courtroom, prison, or other point, traveling by automobile or public transportation and be designated Guard, Deputy.