Custody Officer

City of Santa Monica•Santa Monica, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Santa Monica Police Department is seeking motivated individuals who are interested in starting or continuing a career in law enforcement. The Custody Officer position is an excellent entry point for those pursuing a degree in criminal justice or law enforcement, or for anyone considering a future career as a Police Officer. Custody Officers play a key role in the department by supporting jail operations and working closely with sworn personnel. This position provides hands-on exposure to the law enforcement environment, policies, procedures, and daily operations, and valuable experience for those who want to advance into sworn roles in the future. In this role, you will perform custody-related, administrative, and clerical duties while maintaining a safe, secure, and respectful environment within the detention facility. You’ll work alongside police officers, supervisors, and professional staff in a team-oriented setting. Upon hire, you must successfully complete a 14-week Detention Officer Academy, which includes classroom instruction and physical training. This academy prepares you to perform the duties safely and professionally. Gain real-world law enforcement experience and exposure, work directly with sworn officers and professional staff, build a strong foundation for a future Police Officer career, and receive paid training and develop job-relevant skills in custody operations, communication, and public safety.

Requirements

Graduation from high school or the equivalent.
One year of recent, paid work experience involving public contact.
Possession of a valid Class C driver license.
Upon hire must complete a 16-week Detention Officer Academy that requires both physical and academic requirements including P.C. 832.
Custody Officers are required to complete 24 hours of mandatory Standards and Trainings for Corrections (STC) annually.
Custody Officers must also complete bi-annual re-certifications, including Safe Food Handling and CPR/First Aid.

Nice To Haves

Experience working for a law enforcement agency.
Passenger endorsement license for arrestee transportation.

Responsibilities

Performs a variety of duties associated with the secure custody, management, and operation of a 92 bed City jail facility, ensuring the safety, well-being, and orderly conduct of arrestees.
Takes custody of arrestees from arresting officers.
Conducts appropriate arrestee searches to identify contraband and dangerous items.
Controls the movement and activities of arrestees.
Searches arrestees who may be unkempt or in squalid condition.
Books and processes arrestees including fingerprinting and photographing of arrestees and inputting such information in the Los Angeles County Regional Identification System.
Collects DNA samples as required.
Obtains on-site medical clearances for arrestees.
May transport and/or release arrestees after completion of the booking process.
Provides arrestees transportation to pre-arraignment courthouses and other Los Angeles County facilities.
Ensures the security, health, safety and well-being of arrestees.
Conducts security checks of the detention facility both physically and via closed circuit camera.
Recognizes and responds appropriately to mental or psychiatric disorders.
Coordinates mental health evaluations for arrestees as required or requested.
Assist service providers with interviewing arrestees in custody.
Prepares, orders, and maintains inventory control of food and supplies for those in custody.
Serves meals to arrestees.
Quells disturbances and maintains order in the facility.
Oversees the movement and ensures the safety and security of medical staff, outreach personnel, and outside contractors.
Coordinates visits and telephone communications involving arrestees, bail bond companies, attorneys, clergy, and personal visitors.
Completes thorough and accurate written reports as required.
Ensures adherence to Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations.
Performs custodial duties to ensure cleanliness of the facility as required by the state regulation.
Appears and testifies in court.
Performs other duties as assigned.