Detention Officer

Detention Officer

Under general supervision of the Detention Supervisor, or designee, the Detention Officer performs all duties necessary for the successful operation of the Detention Facility. Executes booking protocols for arrivals and departures at the municipal detention facility while ensuring the welfare of the detainees is consistently monitored. Must be available to work any shift, holidays and/or weekends. The intent of this position description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbent(s) in this position. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties in this description and incumbent(s) may be required to perform position-related tasks other than those specifically listed in this description.

Essential Job Functions:

• Completes all areas of on-the-job training.
• Assists with booking procedures into/out of the municipal detention facility, including logging in of property, recording names into the arrest book and onto the computer, fingerprinting, photographing, and conducting a secondary search for weapons/drugs before putting detainees into cells.
• Assists with administering intoxilyzer tests and videotaping persons arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI).
• Monitors daily activity and behavior of detainees to ensure compliance with facility rules.
• Issue detainee towels and personal hygiene articles.
• Assist in dispensing medication as prescribed.
• Assists with security and monitoring detainees during arraignment proceedings.
• Uploads files to the arraignment platform for judicial review and updates records.
• Escorts detainees from one area to another, as required.
• Visually, and through use of remote video surveillance equipment, performs cell checks to monitor detainee status and behavior.
• Explains bail and bond-out options to detainees charged with offenses; accepts bail, bonds, or fines from and completes release forms for detainees.
• Locks cell doors take physical action to prevent escapes and/or assaults, subdue combative/violent detainees.
• Assists in emergency situations, including disturbances and medical needs.
• Assists in detainee visitations with relatives and legal counsel.
• Assists in preparing appropriate documentation to ensure release or a timely transfer of detainees.
• May attend/testify in criminal and civil courts when summoned.
• Effectively communicate with detainees, staff and visitors to maintain order and security.
• Stock office supply inventories and monitor detention center equipment and supplies.
• Cleans detention facilities.

Other Important Duties:

• Maintains various paper and computer records.
• Prepares reports as required.
• Attend training schools/seminars and other City related events which may require occasional overnight travel.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Regular and consistent attendance for the assigned work hours is essential.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of cash handling procedures, including the ability to accurately collect and count money and to make change.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and procedure applicable to incarceration of prisoners and civil rights.
• Knowledge of penal codes as they relate to incarceration of prisoners.
• Knowledge of internal detention security and order standards
• Health and safety standards applicable to Detention facilities.
• Knowledge of the order and decorum standards for appearing and testifying in court.
• Proficient in the use of computers and related equipment, hardware, and software.
• Must be able to type 20 words per minute.
• Skill in effective oral and written communications including preparation and presentation of reports and materials.
• Skill in resolving customer complaints and concerns.
• Knowledge of customer service and training methods and practices.
• Knowledge of City policies and procedures.

Education, Experience, and Certifications/Licenses:

• High School Diploma or GED or equivalent combination of education and experience that support the ability to perform the essential functions and/or skills of the job.
• Must obtain certificate of completion of Basic Jailer training program within one (1) year of employment.
• Must be able to successfully complete training in defensive tactics within one (1) year of employment and maintain proficiency in defense tactics.
• Must be a United States citizen.
• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen, polygraph, psychological examination, physical agility test, criminal background check and MVR check.
• Must possess a valid State of Texas Driver's License.

Environmental Factors and Conditions/Physical Requirements:

• Work is performed in office and on-site environments.
• Maintains level of physical fitness to safely respond and assist other detention officers when necessary.
• Must be able to restrain hostile and/or combative individuals.

Work Environment:

• Work performed is primarily medium work, exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.