The research had two stages. The first included interviews with 11 subject-matter experts, who developed a list of 272 tasks completed by prison administrators. In stage two, a survey listing these tasks was mailed to all Pennsylvania prison administrators, who were asked to rate the tasks with respect to time spent and importance. Responses came from 55 of the 82 State prison superintendents and county prison wardens. Most participants were white males; their average age was 48 years. Eighty-two percent had completed some higher education. Results revealed that the jobs of State and county prison administrators are the same and involve 253 core tasks. The six most critical duty areas are to manage change within the institution, provide leadership for the organization, manage organizational performance, conduct inspections and tours, manage liability exposure and risk management, and maintain professional staff. Findings also indicated training needs. Tables