Detention Officer

Job Title

Performs protective service work processing inmates, maintaining corrections center security, transporting inmates, and performs related work as apparent or assigned.

Compensation adjusted based on experience and education:

• 1% for each year of experience up to 10 years
• 2% for Associate's degree
• 2% for Bachelor's degree
• 5% for Intermediate Detention Certification
• 5% for Advanced Detention Certification

Essential Functions

The following essential functions serve as a general guide for this position. Position functions are subject to change based on departmental needs and external factors including, but not limited to, regulatory requirements.

• Ensures the safety and security of inmates within the Chatham County Detention Center;
• Controls inmates by performing routine facility checks, conducting head counts, resolving conflicts, performing cell searches, and removing dangerous and unruly inmates as necessary;
• Receives and processes inmates into the custody of the institution, searches prisoners, takes charge of personal property, and assists in investigations of incidents within the Detention Center;
• Participates in daily shift briefings and maintains key and radio control.
• Distributes medications and meals, distributes and restocks supplies, and maintains accountability of razors;
• Prepares and maintains logs, reports, and records, organizes files, answers telephone, contacts other agencies, and responds to inquiries;
• Escorts and transports inmates to court and other required appointments and supervises inmate visitation;
• Prepares and distributes canteens to inmates;
• Performs general maintenance and cleaning of the Detention Center;
• May be assigned collateral officer duties such as special operations, community service, or assisting other teams of the Sheriff's Office;
• Assists with training new officers and attends training and meetings as required;
• Assists with setting up the kitchen and may assist with cooking daily meals, stocking inventory, washing utensils, cleaning the kitchen, etc.;
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Some knowledge of the security, rules, regulations and procedures of the institution;
• Some knowledge of the practices of modem penology as related to the supervision and care of persons under institutionalized restraint;
• Some knowledge of evacuation and fire policies and procedures;
• Ability to enforce institutional rules firmly and fairly;
• Ability to detect potential behavior problems of inmates;
• Ability to detect the early symptoms of common health problems;
• Ability to carry out oral and written directions accurately;
• Ability to supervise the activities of large groups of inmates;
• Ability to prepare records and reports and
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, inmates, attorneys and the general public.

Chatham County is fully committed to equal employment opportunity (EEO) principles and issues this anti-discrimination/EEO compliance clause to support and maintain employee's rights and responsibilities relating to equal employment. The core of equal employment opportunity is the right to work and advance on the basis of merit, ability, and potential, free from prejudice or discrimination. In accordance with the applicable anti-discrimination statutes, executive orders, and other authorities, Chatham County protects employees against discrimination, to the fullest extent of law, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, political affiliation, whistleblower activity, parental status, and military service (past, present, or future), and against retaliation for participation in EEO activity or opposition to discrimination.

Chatham County has over 600 employees who play an important role in planning, designing, and maintaining government programs while delivering good customer service and maintaining fiscal responsibility. Our employees are our greatest asset, and we place a high value on training, so employees are well-educated and well-trained. Sure, while various career opportunities exist, none are as rewarding as working for Chatham County. We offer a competitive benefits package to full-time employees (working 30+ hours per week) including health care, dental, vision, retirement, 401(k), flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, and paid leave. To learn more details, visit the benefits page on our website.

Are you able to work a flexible work schedule that includes nights, weekends, holidays, and includes varying shifts and locations?

• Yes
• No

If you currently do not live in North Carolina, are you willing to relocate?

• Yes
• No

Have you completed the Detention Officer Certification Course (DOCC) or are you in the process of completing it?

• Yes, I have completed the course
• No, I have not completed the course
• Yes, I am in the process now

If you have not completed the DOCC and have not started, are you willing to complete the course within one year of being hired?

• Yes, I am willing to complete the course within one year.
• No, I am not willing to complete the course within one year.

* Required Question