Correctional Officer

Minnehaha County•Rochester, MN

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office is hiring Correctional Officers for its jail in downtown Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Officers help protect inmates, staff, and the community by maintaining a safe and orderly facility, responding to emergencies, supervising daily activities, and supporting the operation of the local justice system. The next new-hire class begins January 19, 2027. The recruitment may also be used to fill Correctional Systems Operator positions at a lower pay grade. New officers receive 11 weeks of classroom and on-the-job training, including Crisis Intervention Training. Training covers communication, de-escalation, defensive tactics, and real-world jail operations. After completing the training program, officers earn certifications in Crisis Intervention Training, CPR and First Aid, NCIC Terminal Operator, NIMS, Pepper Spray, CJIS, and Defensive Tactics—Law Enforcement Krav Maga. Possible future certifications include PepperBall, Pistol, and Taser 10. The position works 12-hour shifts, with 15 shifts per month and Friday, Saturday, and Sunday off every other week. Year-long rotations provide consistent schedules. The 2027 hiring range is $28.40–$31.31 per hour, with full earning potential up to $42.08 per hour. New officers may receive pay increases of up to 5% after each of their first three years, in addition to annual increases. Night-shift differential and bilingual specialty pay are available under stated conditions. The role offers opportunities for special assignments and advancement within the Jail Division, including Transporter, Court Security Officer, Corporal, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Warden. Officers are also routinely promoted to Deputy Sheriff and become South Dakota Certified Law Enforcement Officers in the Patrol Division.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED and one year of relevant work experience; a comparable combination of education and work experience may be considered.
Valid driver's license and ability to maintain a safe driving record with Minnehaha County.
Successfully complete the pre-employment background process.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Maintain the ability to serve as a credible witness in court.
Make appropriate decisions quickly and with tact and impartiality.
Learn and apply law-enforcement operations policies and procedures.
Perform physical restraint techniques as instructed to protect inmates and others.
Build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with colleagues, other agencies, and the public.
Maintain a professional appearance and communicate respectfully and approachably.

Nice To Haves

Associate or bachelor's degree in criminal justice.
Experience working in corrections.
Knowledge of legal terminology.

Responsibilities

Conduct inmate head counts, wellness checks, cell inspections, and security rounds throughout the jail and perimeter.
Respond to emergencies and use crisis-intervention and de-escalation techniques, including in mental-health situations.
Oversee inmate intake and release, including fingerprinting, photographing, property management, and accurate documentation.
Supervise recreation, meals, medication distribution, visitations, and inmate movement.
Conduct NCIC checks, manage warrants and protection orders, and support inmates in accessing programs and services.
Operate communications equipment; log movement and activity; distribute mail and supplies; and maintain detailed records.
Help maintain a safe, secure, respectful, and orderly environment for inmates, staff, and the public.

Benefits

Potential $1,000 retention bonuses at 9, 18, 27, and 36 months for newly hired Juvenile Correctional Officers who meet performance and program eligibility requirements.
Night-shift differential of $1.00 per hour.
Bilingual specialty pay of an additional $0.50 per hour for officers who pass a bilingual exam.
Paid training, including 11 weeks of classroom and on-the-job training.
Annual confidential mental-health visits and additional sessions for officers and family members.
Access to financial resources, legal advisors, work and lifestyle support, and educational resources.
Onsite workout facility, gym reimbursement, wellness challenges, and health and fitness education.
Generous paid time off and extended sick leave.
Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
Retirement through the South Dakota Retirement System.