Detention Officer

Detention Officer

Written Examination - August 26, 2026 This position is responsible for supervising inmates at the city jail.

Major Duties

• Makes rounds of the jail to maintain security; checks locks, fences, alarms, and other security devices; monitors inmates for contraband and security violations.
• Receives and releases inmates being transferred to and from the facility; completes all required paperwork; books and classifies inmates; inventories inmate property.
• Sets and collects bond payments.
• Searches inmates for contraband.
• Performs count procedures for inmate accountability.
• Operates jail control room; monitors security cameras; locks and unlocks doors.
• Prepares required logs and reports.
• Serves inmate meals and administers medications.
• Administers inmate discipline.
• Monitors facility for maintenance, repair, and security issues and reports same to supervisor.
• Oversees inmate visitations.
• Directs the work of inmate trustees as assigned; directs the custodial maintenance of the facility; maintains supply inventory and reorders as needed; coordinates trustee background checks.
• Performs related duties.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required by the Position

• 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.

Minimum Qualifications

• 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 preferred.

Application / Examination

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 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.

The City of Dothan provides a diverse package of benefit programs:

• Vacation: 12 Vacation Days per calendar year
• Holidays: 12 Paid Holidays per calendar year
• Medical and Dental Insurance: Offered through Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Alabama. Rates vary based on coverage selected
• Retirement Plan: Administered through the Retirement Systems of Alabama
• Life Insurance: Administered through Unum Life. No cost for eligible employees
• Military Leave: up to 21 working days per calendar year with Military Orders
• Direct Deposit: Employees may elect to have their payroll check deposited directly into their bank account
• Employee Health Clinic: Industrial Nurse on duty for work related injuries and minor illnesses Other benefits include: Cafeteria plan, Credit Union, Deferred Compensation plans, Employee Assistance Program, Physical Fitness Program, Jury Duty Leave and more..... Note: All benefits are subject to eligibility requirements. Individuals are responsible for any related fees or charges that may apply.