Detention Officer

Position Overview

*Annual salary calculated based on 2184 hours*

Under general supervision, performs routine duties in accordance with established policies, regulations and procedures to maintain order and provide for the security, care and direct supervision of inmates/residents in housing units, at meals, during recreation, on work assignments and during all other phases of activity in a correctional facility.

Please note: In this position, you must be able to pass a drug screen, physical examination, and criminal background check. You must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays as required.

Classification will commensurate based on years of experience:

• Detention Officer I - 0 to 5 years of experience
• Detention Officer II - 5 to 8 years of experience
• Detention Officer III - 8 to 12 years of experience
• Detention Officer IV - 12 years of experience

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

(All duties listed may not be included in any one position nor does the list include all tasks found in a position of this class.)

• Patrols assigned areas at various intervals for security of inmates, count of inmates and security of buildings and grounds.
• Complete OC (pepper spray) and TASER certification.
• Complete in-house training academy and Field Training program.
• Remains alert for signs of disorder or tension.
• Inspects quarters, facilities, and work locations for unauthorized materials.
• Checks sanitary conditions and fire and safety hazards, such as unsafe tools and equipment.
• Keeps records and makes reports on such matters as inmate movements and progress and offender's violation of rules.
• Escorts individuals or groups of inmates to work assignments.
• Maintains order and discipline during work and during bathing, meals, and recreational activities.
• Ensures inmates meet institutional standards of conduct.
• Keeps perpetual count on assigned inmates.
• Supervises offenders in various work details including general clean-up of institutional grounds and buildings.
• Supervises inmates in court transports and medical transports.
• Supervises and accounts for meal services and all inmate interactions with in-house medical staff.
• Takes custody of personal effects.
• Performs related work as required.

Education and Experience

Education and Experience

• Must be a high school graduate or equivalent, and any combination of training and experience which provides the ability to perform job specifications. Classification will commensurate based on years of experience:
  • Detention Officer I - 0 to 5 years of experience
  • Detention Officer II - 5 to 8 years of experience
  • Detention Officer III - 8 to 12 years of experience
  • Detention Officer IV - 12 years of experience

• Must complete one (1) year of promotional probation beginning on the date of the promotion.

Skills for Success

• Working knowledge of, and familiarization with, appropriate agency rules and regulations;
• Ability to supervise effectively and obtain results from offenders who may not be work motivated;
• Some knowledge of psychology, sociology, alcoholism, drug addiction and criminology;
• Ability to defend oneself physically;
• Ability to operate cell house range and/or dormitory controls;
• Ability to prepare reports of unusual happenings, accidents or violations of rules;
• Alertness and ability to act quickly and effectively in an emergency;
• Ability to keep abreast of progress and study in the field of corrections;
• Willingness to participate in training programs as required.

Other Requirements

Physical Requirements

• Climb multiple flights of steps during rounds ascending to the upper tiers.
• Prolonged walking, prolonged standing greater than one hour, pushing and or pulling wheeled carts in excess of 200 pounds.
• Brief periods of intense physical exertion when physical engagement with non-compliant or disruptive inmates is required.
• Periods of repetitive bending, stooping or crawling to perform cell searches.
• Must pass a Physical Agility Test. This includes 10 pushups, 15 sit-ups, and running a mile in 12 minutes.

Certifications or Licenses Required

• Must be able to successfully complete OC (pepper spray) and TASER certification, provided by Madison County.
• Must be able to successfully complete in-house training academy and Field Training program, provided by Madison County.
• Must be at least 19 years of age.