Work Release Officer (Female BFOQ)

County of Anoka • Anoka, MN

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Anoka County Community Corrections is committed to its mission of Working to Build a Safer Community. Community Corrections is dedicated to leading with innovation by delivering research‑based, results‑driven services. We believe that people have the capacity to change, and that public safety is strengthened through a balanced approach that combines targeted interventions with accountability. We are currently seeking Work Release Officers to join our team. These positions play a vital role in supporting both community safety and individual rehabilitation.
Note: This position is open to female applicants only, in accordance with a Bona Fide Occupational Qualification (BFOQ), as the duties involve direct supervision of female inmates and require tasks that can only be performed by female staff to maintain safety, privacy, and security. This is a full-time, non-exempt, on-site position. Interviews will take place the week of March 8th, 2026, for those selected to move forward in the hiring process.

Requirements

• Requires a high school diploma.
• Must be 21 years of age or older by date of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Corrections, Criminal Justice, Criminology, Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology, or closely related field.
• One or more years (2,080 annual hours) job-related experience in a correctional, probation, or group home setting.
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system and processes.
• Knowledge of motivational interviewing techniques.
• Ability to understand state laws affecting correctional facilities, work release, and related court procedures.
• Ability to demonstrate tact and diplomacy when communicating with inmates, co-workers, visitors, the public, the county and/or collateral sources.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate safe and efficient custodial intakes and complete release procedures.
• Perform and electronically document safety, well-being, and facility security checks.
• Provide constant and direct supervision of the in-custody population in their daily living units including various work assignments.
• Maintain facility rules and regulations using direct supervision, interpersonal communication, directives, disciplinary action, and physical restraint.
• Respond to and assess emergencies, restore order and security, de-escalate and mediate conflicts directly.
• Contact employers to obtain work reports.
• Conduct inmate spot checks in the community and escort inmates to appointments.
• Transport inmates between facilities and the courthouse; monitor inmates when they are off grounds.
• Collect urinalysis specimens, perform searches, metal detection, and breathalyzer tests.
• Ensure basic inmate needs are always met, including food, clothing, medication/medical services and shelter.
• Use a variety of techniques when interacting with inmates including group approach, teaching, modeling, and confrontation with motivational interviewing components as the foundation of those interactions.
• Always maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.

Benefits

• 24 days of paid flexible time off and up to 12.5 paid holidays.
• Comprehensive insurance, including medical, dental, vision, flex benefits and more at https://www.anokacountymn.gov/benefits .
• Medical and dental clinic exclusive to employees, located at the Anoka County Government Center.
• Pension plan and other retirement investment options.
• Advancement/professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

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