Work Release Officer (Female BFOQ)

Anoka County

6d • Onsite

About The Position

Anoka County Community Corrections is seeking female Work Release Officers to join their team. These positions are vital for supporting community safety and individual rehabilitation. Key responsibilities include supervising and escorting inmates in the community, transporting individuals safely and securely, and responding effectively to emergencies. 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.

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) of experience in a correctional or probationary setting.
• Job-related experience in a public‑facing security role.
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system and processes, such as interview 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.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.

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
• up to 12.5 paid holidays
• Comprehensive insurance, including medical, dental, vision, flex 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