Detention Officer

Omaha Tribe of Nebraska•Macy, NE

About The Position

The Detention Officer provides first-line supervision of male and female criminal offenders, including individuals awaiting adjudication and sentenced offenders, in detention or correctional facilities and related treatment or rehabilitation programs. The role helps protect facility security, staff and inmate safety, and inmate care through behavior management, leadership, crisis intervention, mediation, fair treatment, observation, service referrals, and documentation. The position involves protecting individuals’ lives and civil rights and requires discretion when handling sensitive matters. The employee is supervised by the Chief of Police and works under the immediate leadership of the Detention Supervisor. The Chief of Police or leader provides continuing close supervision by identifying tasks, limitations, and priorities. The supervisor provides specific instructions for new or unusual tasks. The Officer independently performs recurring assignments, refers uncovered problems and life-threatening situations to a supervisor, and has work and methods closely reviewed daily for accuracy and compliance with instructions and procedures. The Officer enforces applicable detention standards and regulations; maintains facility safety and security; supervises inmate services, movement, activities, and discipline; and supports inmates’ access to services and programs. The role also includes preparing arrest records, serving meals, inspecting facility security features, patrolling and checking cellblocks, escorting inmates, and reporting needs for police or medical assistance.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED, or one to three months of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least six months of previous experience in law enforcement or the security field.
Knowledge, skills, and abilities required for correctional work, including relevant personal attributes.
Ability to read and understand simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.
Ability to write simple correspondence and reports, communicate orally with supervisors and institutional staff, and maintain accurate records.
Ability to present information effectively in one-on-one and small-group situations.
Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, including directives, orders, policies, and operational descriptions.
Ability to communicate effectively with inmates, gain their respect and confidence, and establish and maintain constructive relationships.
Ability to perform duties under close or minimum supervision.
Basic knowledge and experience in county, state, and federal law enforcement.
Maintain thorough knowledge of jail policies and procedures.
Possess a valid Nebraska driver's license.
Possess or pass a test for valid Standard First Aid Certification.
Possess a license for and ability to use specialized weapons for police work.
Attend and complete Jail Management Training within one year of hire.
Maintain a telephone or be able to obtain telephone service.
Be drug-free, demonstrate knowledge of agency drug-abuse policies and procedures, recognize signs and symptoms of drug abuse or behavioral changes, and report unusual actions to a responsible official.
Pass periodic physical fitness tests and submit to drug testing.
Be physically able to work days, nights, weekends, and varied shifts; withstand stressful situations and unusual mental and nervous pressures; and perform duties that may involve prolonged walking and standing, lifting and carrying objects, restraining inmates in emergencies, and participating in escape or walk-away hunts.
Be capable of performing the duties efficiently and be free from defects or diseases that may create an employment hazard to oneself or others.

Responsibilities

Enforce standards, rules, and regulations governing detention facilities and programs, including applicable Title 25 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Bureau of Indian Affairs Manual, and Department of the Interior Departmental Manual provisions.
Maintain facility safety and security through inmate supervision, searches, transportation, classification, counts, fire safety, key control, perimeter security, and enforcement of inmate rules.
Conduct preliminary physical and mental health interviews and classification assessments.
Orient newly admitted inmates to facility philosophy and rules, and orient volunteers and employees to facility rules and procedures.
Coordinate and supervise inmate services, activities, and programs, including medical care, court access, mail, recreation, library, work programs, religious services, food, laundry, and counseling.
Supervise inmate movement, maintain discipline, and prevent contraband from entering the facility.
Instruct inmates in housekeeping, sanitation, and the proper use and care of tools and equipment used in work inside or outside the facility.
Ensure inmates are released in accordance with established regulations and operational descriptions.
Serve meals to prisoners.
Prepare arrest records identifying prisoners and assigned charges.
Observe inmate conduct and behavior to prevent disturbances and escapes.
Inspect locks, windows, bars, grills, doors, and gates for tampering.
Patrol assigned areas for prohibited activities, rule violations, and unsatisfactory inmate attitudes or adjustment.
Escort inmates to and from visiting rooms, medical facilities, and Tribal Court rooms.
Report needs for police or medical assistance to the Police Department.
Perform periodic checks of cellblocks.
Perform other duties as assigned.