Study sites containing medium-sized urban area facilities were selected across the United States to ensure that generalizations made about stress levels in podular, direct supervision jails were applicable across a wide range of geographic settings. Research was accomplished using a personnel survey and an organizational profile form. Findings from five jails demonstrated that stress was a serious problem in all facilities. Average stress levels among correctional officers and support staff were at or approaching dangerous levels. Some jail facilities, however, managed stressful workplace conditions more effectively than others. Stress management was accomplished by developing model personnel and management practices featuring fair compensation, employee development, participative management, and employee improvement. 19 references, 2 notes, and 8 tables