Detention Officer

Jackson County•399 Grindstaff Cove Road -- Sylva, NC

20h

About The Position

The Detention Officer ensures that inmates are secured and their medical needs are met, while addressing the safety and welfare needs of detention officers and inmates in accordance with applicable rules and regulations. The role includes monitoring and counting inmates, processing and classifying them, maintaining facility records, supporting medical care, and operating control rooms. The position requires a varied schedule that includes nights, holidays, and weekends.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent, compliance with North Carolina's minimum training and certification standards for detention center personnel, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Possess a valid State of North Carolina driver's license at the time of hire and as a condition of continued employment.
Successfully complete the Detention Officer Certification Course (DOCC) and obtain certification within 12 months of hire.
Be a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years old at the time of initial employment.
Be able to work a varied schedule, including nights, holidays, and weekends.
Knowledge of county and departmental policies and procedures, computers and job-related software, institutional security rules and procedures, and modern penology related to supervising and caring for people under institutionalized restraint.
Skills in prioritizing and organizing work and in oral and written communication.
Ability to enforce institutional rules firmly and fairly; detect potential inmate behavior problems and early symptoms of common health problems; accurately follow oral and written directions; supervise large groups of inmates; prepare records and reports; operate a motor vehicle; maintain physical agility and endurance; and communicate and interact effectively with management, employees, the public, and other groups involved in County departmental activities.

Responsibilities

Visually check inmates at designated times and conduct additional checks on and segregate inmates with special risks or needs, including suicide risk, high blood alcohol content, mental illness, or assault risk.
Count inmates at designated times.
Follow all procedures for receiving new inmates.
Perform laundry and cleaning duties.
Process inmates, including work-release inmates, into and out of the facility.
Classify and house inmates according to state statutes.
Transfer inmates to prisons, other facilities, and medical appointments; assist patrol with transporting involuntary commitments.
Assist medical staff with passing medication and taking inmates to medical appointments with nurses or doctors.
Maintain shift logs, including rounds and pass-downs, inmate records, and files.
Escort inmates to and from court.
Set up and monitor visitation.
Operate the main and second control rooms.
Ensure the safety of facility visitors.
Perform other related job duties as assigned.