Detention Officer

Detention Officer

General definition: Performs detention officer duties of average difficulty necessary for the effective and efficient operation of the daily duties such as: headcounts, feeding, moving inmates from one location to another and the supervision of the inmate workers assigned to perform the duties. Officers are expected to perform their duties in a firm, fair, and consistent manner. Also, provides custodial care necessary for the safety, security, and well-being of the inmates confined in the facility.

Supervision received: Work is performed under the direct supervision of the Shift Sergeant and/or Shift Corporal and under the general direction of the Detention Lieutenant, Detention Captain, Jail Administrator, Chief Deputy and Sheriff.

Supervision exercised: Direct supervisor of all of the inmates incarcerated in the Detention Facility.

Example of duties;

Guard inmates in detention facility in accordance with established policies, regulations, procedures and Federal and State Laws.

Observe conduct and behavior of inmates to prevent disturbances, assaults or escapes and for the general well- being of the inmates.

Inspects facility locks, windows, bars, doors, gates and air conditioning/return air grills for tampering.

Searches inmates for contraband articles.

Guards, assigns duties and instructs inmates during work assignments.

Patrols assigned areas for evidence of forbidden activities, infractions of rules, unsatisfactory attitudes or conduct of inmates and ensures over all safety and security of inmates.

Report observations to direct supervisor as required by policy and procedures.

Employs force to maintain discipline and order among inmates when necessary and within the guidelines of policy, procedure and Federal and State Laws.

Escorts inmates within the facility to designated areas including but not limited to: recreation area, visitation, infirmary, educational services and religious services.

Prepare written reports and statements concerning incidents of inmate disturbances, disciplinary statements or reports, injuries, or any incident within the facility.

Conduct pat down searches and strip searches of inmates when deemed appropriate according to policy and procedures.

Respond with appropriate equipment to fire alarms within the facility as required by policy.

Report any maintenance issues to maintenance department using approved maintenance request form.

Respond to officer(s) needed assistance with combative or assaultive inmate(s) and assist with restraining or subduing inmate(s) for the protection of officers and other inmates.

Knowledge, skills, & abilities:

Ability to work independently in the absence of supervision. Be a self-starter and self-motivated.

Ability to deal tactfully and firmly with inmates and the ability to insure compliance from the inmates according to the rules.

Ability to make independent judgments and adopt quick, effective and responsible courses of actions during emergency and routine situations.

Working knowledge of Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office – Detention Division policy and procedures.

Effectively represent the Sheriff’s Office in contacts with the public and other law enforcement agencies.

Ability to maintain effective working relationship with supervisor, other employees, other law enforcement agencies and the public.

Ability to understand and carry out oral and written directives.

Ability to communicate clearly and concisely and able to write clear and comprehensive reports, accurate records, and other written materials.

Ability to observe safe work practices.

Ability to listen to inmate conversations and sounds inside and outside the facility and exercise judgment in determining potential security problems.

Requirements:

Will be issued a Temporary Jailers License by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement which is active for 1 year. The officer must be able to obtain a Permanent Jailers License issued by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement for continued employment. Must be able to pass the County Corrections Firearms course and qualify with county issued firearm.

Hours: 4 on / 4 off rotation – hours are either 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. depending on shift assignment.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $56,021.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)
• Night Shift (Preferred)

Work Location: In person