Detention Officer

Detention OfficerHighly responsible security work maintaining physical custody and control of inmates within the Alachua County Sheriff's Office (ACSO) Department of the Jail (DOJ). They are responsible for receiving and processing inmates, enforcing disciplinary procedures for the control of inmate behavior, including the application of restraint and use of force techniques, and the preparation of reports and documents necessary for operational procedures. Work is performed under the direction of the Detention Sergeant or higher ranked supervisor. Performance is evaluated through conferences, observation, results obtained, and appropriate employee performance appraisals.Examples of DutiesMake periodic tours of the jail to inspect for security, including head countsRelease inmates from cell areas to outside recreation areas or other program areas; operates security doors and equipmentReceive prisoners from law enforcement officers and adhere to clearly established procedures for inmate processing including: searching, fingerprinting and photographingRelease inmates from jail on proper authorization and return articles of clothing and other personal property to the inmateReceive and review cash and security bail bonds for accuracy and authenticityPrepare disposition reports of prisoners confined in the facilityAnswer routine inmate questionsSupervise the distribution of meals, medication, and mail in inmate housing areasTransport inmates to and from court appearances as requiredMake observations of inmate attitude, behavior, and physical conditions and report problems to the shift commander or treatment staff as requiredRestrain inmates for the protection of themselves or others through the use of defensive tactics, OC spray, or Taser equipmentPerform related duties as requiredTypical QualificationsEducational Requirements:High School/GED - RequiredAssociate's Degree - PreferredBachelor's Degree - PreferredPreferred Major(s): Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or other related fieldExperience and Training:Meet or exceed all applicable standards required by Florida Law for Correctional OfficersSuccessfully complete the ACSO Field Training Officer program requirementsMust meet or exceed all applicable physical agility standards required by ACSOMeet requirements for use of defensive tactics and use of issued or available equipment, including OC spray and TaserCertification and Licensing:CJSTC/FDLE Correctional Officer CertificationCurrent, valid Florida driver licensePhysical Requirements:Sit, stand, and/or walk for moderate periodsHave good close, distant, color, peripheral, depth, and adjusted visionHear at normal rangeSpeak, read, write, and understand English fluentlyLift/carry 150 poundsPush/pull moderate to heavy loadsClimb, balance, and reach with armsBend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawlTaste and smellManual dexterityDrive a vehiclePass ACSO's Standard Physical Agility Test as requiredPass Defensive Tactics course in-service training as requiredPass all other courses and training required by ACSO/CJSTC for Detention OfficerKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge of the rules, regulations and procedures of the department relating to the confinement and release of prisonersKnowledge of security practices and emergency servicesKnowledge of the safe and proper use of firearms, OC Spray, and Taser equipmentKnowledge and understanding of the attitudes and behavior patterns of persons under restraintAbility to keep records and prepare reportsAbility to enforce regulations with firmness, tact and impartialityAbility to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, inmates, outside law enforcement officers and the public.Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writingWe offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees and part-time employees who work 20 hours or more a week. These benefits include health care, dental, vision, retirement, flexible spending account, and life insurance. Holidays, vacation, and sick leave hours are provided to all full-time employees. A detailed breakdown of our benefits can be found here. We also offer cutting edge and comprehensive training available for law enforcement. The Alachua County Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Alachua County Sheriff's Office gives preference in employment/appointment to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants with disabilities will be reasonably accommodated in the application process. Minorities and protected classes are encouraged to apply.