Detention Officer

Catawba County Government • Newton, NC

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Catawba County Sheriff's Office is recruiting highly motivated individuals with excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving abilities for full-time Detention Officer roles. Officers provide safety and security for inmates confined in the Catawba County Detention Facility and process inmates entering and leaving the facility. Experience is preferred but not required.

Detention Officers work 12.25-hour shifts and work 14 days in a 28-day pay period, with a three-day weekend off every other weekend (Friday through Sunday). Salary is negotiable for applicants with prior law enforcement, detention, or corrections experience. A $2-per-hour shift differential is provided for night shifts. Advanced degrees and specific law enforcement certificates may qualify for additional pay. Annual salary increases may be given following a successful performance review, subject to budget availability. Bilingual extra-duty pay is available following successful testing, subject to budget availability.

Effective January 1, 2026, benefited new hires are eligible for up to 40 hours of advanced annual leave and 40 hours of advanced sick leave.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must be at least 20 years old; there is no maximum age limit.
• Valid North Carolina driver's license.
• No felony convictions; misdemeanors are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
• Must pass a drug screening and medical examination.
• If applicable, an Honorary Discharge from the military.
• Ability to stand or walk 80% of the workday, regularly lift and carry up to 60 pounds, operate equipment such as radios, chemical sprays, handcuffs, and leg irons daily, and withstand loud noises and stressful situations.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving abilities.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in law enforcement, detention, or corrections is preferred but not required.
• Advanced degrees and specific law enforcement certificates may qualify for additional pay.
• Bilingual ability may qualify for extra-duty pay following successful testing.

Responsibilities

• Provide care and security for inmates confined in detention facilities by conducting regular cell checks, monitoring cells and common areas, and responding immediately to problems between inmates.
• Prepare and maintain accurate reports and records.
• Attend departmental in-service training to stay current on changes in law and maintain skills.
• Appear in court as needed to provide testimony.
• Process inmates in and out of the Detention Facility.

Benefits

• Benefited new hires are eligible for up to 40 hours of advanced annual leave and 40 hours of advanced sick leave, effective January 1, 2026.
• $2-per-hour shift differential for night-shift Detention Officers.
• Additional pay for Detention Officers with advanced degrees and specific law enforcement certificates.
• Annual salary increase following a successful performance review, dependent upon budget availability.
• Bilingual extra-duty pay following successful testing, dependent upon budget availability.

What This Job Offers

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