Correctional Officers

Minnehaha County•Sd 57104, SD

4d•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 secure facility, responding to emergencies, supervising daily activities, and supporting jail operations. A 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. The role includes 11 weeks of classroom and on-the-job training, including Crisis Intervention Training. Successful completion of the training program earns certifications in Crisis Intervention Training, CPR and First Aid, NCIC Terminal Operator, NIMS, Pepper Spray, CJIS, and Defensive Tactics—Law Enforcement Krav Maga. Officers work 12-hour shifts, 15 shifts per month, with 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 earning potential up to $42.08 per hour and opportunities for pay increases. Newly hired Juvenile Correctional Officers may qualify for retention bonuses subject to performance and program eligibility requirements. The County offers comprehensive benefits and wellness resources, and potential advancement opportunities within the Jail Division and into 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.
Successful completion of the pre-employment background process.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to maintain credibility as a witness in court.
Ability to make appropriate decisions quickly, tactfully, and impartially.
Ability to learn and apply law enforcement operations policies and procedures.
Ability to perform physical restraint techniques as instructed.
Ability to build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with colleagues, other agencies, and the public.
Professional appearance and respectful, approachable communication.

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 regular 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, fingerprinting and photographing, property management, and accurate, secure 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.
Handle communications equipment; log movement and activity; distribute mail and supplies; and maintain detailed records.
Help provide a secure and respectful environment for inmates, staff, and the public.
Perform physical restraint techniques as instructed to promote inmate and public safety.

Benefits

2027 hiring range of $28.40 to $31.31 per hour, with earning potential up to $42.08 per hour and opportunities for pay increases.
Eligible newly hired Juvenile Correctional Officers may receive $1,000 retention bonuses at 9, 18, 27, and 36 months, subject to performance and program eligibility requirements.
$1.00 per hour night shift differential.
Additional $0.50 per hour specialty pay for officers who pass a bilingual exam.
Paid 11-week classroom and on-the-job training.
Annual confidential mental health visits and additional County-provided 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, providing lifetime income throughout retirement.
Potential special assignments and promotions within the Jail Division and opportunities to become a Deputy Sheriff in the Patrol Division.