Detention Officer

Detention Officer

This position is responsible for supervising inmates at the city jail. Responsibilities 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, and 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, and 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. The purpose of this position is to ensure the safety and security of inmates, personnel, and visitors. Successful performance contributes to the safety and security of inmates, employees, and the public.

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.

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.

The City of Dothan's Police Department will administer a polygraph examination to anyone hired/promoted/transferred into the Police Department. The examination will be a question and answer test that covers 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.

Possession of a valid operator driver's license and an acceptable driving record (PBA 09/10/01). Applicant must be at least 18 years of age. An applicant for this position is subject to 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. (PBA 08/13/12). Must meet the City of Dothan' employment physical standards which includes drug/alcohol testing.