Correctional Officer

Minnehaha County • Brookings, SD

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Minnehaha County is hiring Correctional Officers for its jail in downtown Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Officers work on the front line of public safety, helping protect inmates, staff, and the community while maintaining the safe and orderly operation of the facility. The next new-hire class is scheduled to begin January 19, 2027. The recruitment may also be used to staff Correctional Systems Operator positions at a lower pay grade.

Officers receive 11 weeks of classroom and on-the-job training, including Crisis Intervention Training, and earn certifications upon successful completion. The role offers opportunities for special assignments and promotion within the Jail Division, as well as potential advancement to Deputy Sheriff in the Patrol Division. Work is organized into 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 to $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. The position also offers a night-shift differential and specialty bilingual pay for officers who pass a bilingual exam. Newly hired Juvenile Correctional Officers may qualify for retention bonuses subject to performance and program eligibility requirements.

The County provides comprehensive benefits, wellness resources, mental-health support, and access to an onsite workout facility. Officers develop communication, problem-solving, conflict-management, and decision-making skills while working with people from varied backgrounds.

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, 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.
• Present 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, apply crisis-intervention techniques, and de-escalate 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 secure and respectful environment for inmates, staff, and the public.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off (PTO) and extended sick leave.
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Retirement through the South Dakota Retirement System, including lifetime income throughout retirement.
• Potential retention bonuses for newly hired Juvenile Correctional Officers, subject to performance and 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 11-week classroom and on-the-job training.
• Annual confidential mental-health visits, with additional sessions and resources available to officers and family members.
• Onsite workout facility, gym reimbursement, wellness challenges, and health and fitness education.
• Potential pay increases of up to 5% after each of the first three years, in addition to annual increases.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED