Detention Officer

Pottawattamie County • Council Bluffs, IA

4d

About The Position

Pottawattamie County Jail is seeking dedicated, resilient, and caring individuals age 18 and older to serve as Detention Officers. The role supports safety and security within the jail while contributing to inmate care. It is a full-time position working 12-hour shifts. Detention Officers supervise and control inmate behavior, maintain facility security, provide inmate support and medical assistance as needed, maintain records, and help operate and maintain correctional equipment and the facility.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Knowledge of and experience using a standard keyboard for typing or data entry.
• Knowledge of basic mathematics and ability to post simple accounts according to established procedures.
• Ability to understand and follow specific oral and written instructions.
• Ability to remain composed when dealing with violent or hostile inmates.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, complete standardized report forms, and write brief descriptive narratives.
• Ability to deal courteously and tactfully with the public, inmates, government officials, law enforcement agencies, and fellow employees.
• Graduation from an accredited high school or successful completion of the high school GED test.
• Must possess a valid driver's license at the time of hire.
• Must obtain certification as mandated by the Sheriff's Department within 12 months of hire.
• Ability to lift up to 100 pounds, subdue combative inmates, operate restraint devices, and walk and stand continuously.
• Ability to talk, hear, and use hands to finger, handle, feel, or operate objects or controls.
• Vision correctable to 20/30, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to work under physical and mental stress.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and control inmate behavior through direct contact, surveillance, patrols, and inspections.
• Direct and monitor inmates moving through the facility, including approving entry and exit.
• Search inmates, clothing, living areas, and other facility areas for weapons or contraband.
• Enforce secure-area procedures and maintain facility security.
• Transport inmates safely and securely outside the facility.
• Maintain fire safety, respond to emergencies, and follow procedures for fires, escapes, disasters, or riots.
• Carry, clean, and inspect a handgun while guarding inmates outside the facility.
• Record, admit, and release inmates according to established procedures.
• Provide medical support, including administering medication, supervising care, investigating injuries, determining whether emergency treatment is necessary, and applying first aid as needed.
• Enforce inmate procedures and rules regarding mail, telephone access, courts, and visitation.
• Review, investigate, and enforce inmate discipline.
• Use interpersonal and human-relations skills to support inmate health and welfare.
• Serve food and supervise cleanup as needed.
• Establish, maintain, and update inmate records, accounts, and files, including inventorying and securing personal property.
• Provide court-related records and legal testimony as requested.
• Participate in employee orientation, training, and communications.
• Operate and maintain correctional equipment, tools, and devices, including a corrections vehicle, photographic camera, cell doors, fire equipment, and computer.
• Maintain facility upkeep and maintenance and report mechanical failures.
• Count inmates periodically, determine their locations, and record location lists.
• Classify inmates, assign housing, and review arrest records.
• Investigate, record, and report inmate grievances and explain procedures to inmates.
• Supervise and arrange inmate activities, including counseling, social services, recreation, religious services, and library use.
• Direct and control inmate work programs.
• Conduct inmate support activities and notify inmates about daily schedules.
• Direct and control inmate hygiene, laundry, housekeeping, and sanitation.
• Provide administrative support by preparing reports, filing documents, and answering telephones.

Benefits

• Health insurance, including a family plan costing employees $239.62 per month, with an additional $30 savings for wellness program participation.
• $1,500 family deductible.
• Dental insurance, including premium-free single coverage.
• Vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Long-term disability coverage with the premium fully paid by the employer.
• Other voluntary benefits.
• Paid time off, including sick leave and vacation leave.
• IPERS retirement benefits.

What This Job Offers

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