Detention Officer

Detention Officer

This position is responsible for supervising inmates at the city jail.

Major duties include:

• Making rounds of the jail to maintain security; checking locks, fences, alarms, and other security devices; monitoring inmates for contraband and security violations.
• Receiving and releasing inmates being transferred to and from the facility; completing all required paperwork; booking and classifying inmates; inventorying inmate property.
• Setting and collecting bond payments.
• Searching inmates for contraband.
• Performing count procedures for inmate accountability.
• Operating jail control room; monitoring security cameras; locking and unlocking doors.
• Preparing required logs and reports.
• Serving inmate meals and administering medications.
• Administering inmate discipline.
• Monitoring facility for maintenance, repair, and security issues and reporting same to supervisor.
• Overseeing inmate visitations.
• Directing the work of inmate trustees as assigned; directing the custodial maintenance of the facility; maintaining supply inventory and reordering as needed; coordinating trustee background checks.
• Performing related duties.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities required by the position include:

• Knowledge of inmate security principles.
• Knowledge of inmate supervision principles and practices.
• Knowledge of departmental and city policies and procedures and federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of building security principles.
• Knowledge of tactical defense and restraint procedures.
• Skill in planning, organization, and decision making.
• Skill in maintaining records and preparing reports.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in the use of specialized security and safety equipment.

The work consists of related duties in the provision of inmate security. The unique needs associated with each inmate contribute to the complexity of the position.

Contacts are typically with co-workers, other city employees, inmates, and the public. Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, motivate persons, and provide services.

The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, stooping, bending, crouching, or walking. The employee frequently lifts light and heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, distinguishes between shades of color, and utilizes the sense of smell. The work is typically performed in a correctional facility and outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee is exposed to noise, dirt, grease, machinery with moving parts, contagious or infectious diseases, or irritating chemicals. Work requires the use of specialized security and protective devices and equipment.

Supervisory and management responsibility: None.

Minimum qualifications include graduation from a standard senior high school or GED equivalent, as recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) or Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Recent experience as a Corrections/Detention Officer is preferred.

Condition of employment/promotion/demotion/transfer includes a polygraph examination covering areas of your background, including but not limited to your employment application, employment history, and involvement in criminal activity, such as thefts and domestic violence, drug usage and participation in the distribution of illegal and legal prescription medications.

Necessary special requirements include possession of a valid operator driver's license and an acceptable driving record, being at least 18 years of age, and various background investigations up to and including a criminal, credit, past employment, and reference checks. Employees are required to submit to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with the City of Dothan policy which includes pre-employment and random tests for the duration of employment in this position.

Qualified applicants will be evaluated based on training and experience as documented on their application. This evaluation will comprise 50% of the final grade. The written exam will comprise the other 50% of the final grade. The written examination for the position of Detention Officer is scheduled for August 26, 2026. Candidates meeting the minimum qualifications will receive an email notification to self-schedule for the written exam. You MUST self-schedule online or you will not be allowed to take the test. The content areas of the written examination, for the position of Detention Officer, includes the following: Memory and Understanding Oral/Written Information, Reading Comprehension, Mathematical Ability, and Written Communication. You will be allowed 2 hours and 20 minutes for completion of the examination. Once the examination begins, you will not be allowed to leave the room until you have completed the examination. An applicant on vacation is responsible for attending the examination on the date scheduled. An applicant falling under federally protected leave (i.e., FMLA, USERRA) is responsible for notifying the Personnel Department in writing no later than the closing date by emailing View email address on click.appcast.io. Please advise us at the time of application if you will need assistance and/or accommodation to take this examination by emailing View email address on click.appcast.io.

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer