Correctional Officer

Correctional Officer

Under the direct supervision of the Assistant Jail Administrator, supports the mission of the Blue Earth County Sheriff's Office by providing quality services that promote and protect the safety, security, and well-being of all the people in our community. The Correctional Officer is responsible for the professional administration and enforcement of all federal, state, and local laws as well as the provision of other law enforcement services to the public. The Correctional Officer works in a 24/7 direct supervision facility and is responsible for maintaining a secure jail facility, ensuring the safety and welfare of the inmates, performing jail bookings and releases, and organizing and supervising inmate activity. This position is also responsible for assuring preparation and service of medications, meals, collecting financial transactions, providing public relations information, and maintaining administration and facility records.

Duties / Responsibilities

Essential Functions:

1. Maintains a secure jail facility. Performs various inspections to identify any safety or mechanical issues within the jail. Conduct searches on inmates, living areas, cells and visitors to detect contraband in accordance with jail policy and procedures. Monitors audio and video systems to ensure secure inmate movement and proper identification and clearance of persons requesting entry into the facility.
2. Supervises inmates by enforcing jail rules and carry out procedures as defined by state and Sheriff's Office policies which may include; interacting with and supervising inmates in their daily activities, maintaining order, monitoring behavior, responding to and attempting to resolve inmate concerns/conflicts, responding to emergencies, monitoring inmates' communications, such as mail and phone calls, maintaining necessary logs and reports, and performing housekeeping and sanitation practices as necessary to ensure a safe facility.
3. Assesses arrestees' physical and mental appropriateness for jail confinement and determines housing classification and assignments. Assists in the medical care of inmates to include response to medical emergencies, medication verifications and medication distribution.
4. Booking and releasing inmates by performing booking functions of new inmates to include body scanning, photographing, fingerprinting and searches. Interpret Court Orders and perform release functions in accordance with lawful orders and policy, to include victim notifications, outstanding warrant checks, property return and completion of all release documents.
5. Maintains inmate records by entering inmate data into computer files and submits to proper agencies, maintains detailed record of all inmate activity, account purchases and deposits, medical needs, reports, and other documents to ensure that the inmate files are accurate.
6. Responds to emergencies situations utilizing necessary emergency equipment to ensure safety of inmates and staff. Acts in the event of emergencies responding appropriately or as directed. Subdues inmate during altercations or escapes, defends self and other. Acts swiftly to minimize damage to property, equipment or the facility. Intervenes safely to prevent or stop inmate self-harm or suicidal behavior.
7. Assures preparation and service of inmate meals. Documents and notifies appropriate personnel of any tray refusals, hunger strikes, and special diets identified at booking.
8. Collects, verifies, and records financial transactions. Maintains and records all deposits and withdrawals from inmate accounts. Collects, verifies and records bail money as ordered by the Courts.
9. Provides public relations and services. Conducts fingerprints of the general public, including the collection of fees. Provides public with assistance and inmate information. Conducts tours of the facility.
10. Aides in the training of new Correctional Officers.
11. Promotes a diverse, culturally competent, and respectful workplace.
12. Engages positively with both internal and external customers. Communicates and interacts effectively and respectfully with colleagues, supervisors, representatives from other organizations, and the public.
13. Performs the physical and mental demands of the position.
14. Attends work during regularly scheduled hours.

Additional Functions:

1. Completes warrant service reports.
2. Provides credible testimony in court. Attends and testifies in criminal and civil court proceedings. Represents the interests of the county, state, and federal government. Makes a verbal account for observations, actions, and findings while performing official duties.
3. Participates in professional staff development. Participates in training and education opportunities to maintain and improve proficiency. Attends and participates in professional organizations. Associates with employees and departments from other counties and states for collaboration.
4. Coordinates and provides assigned inmate transports. Transports inmates to Court, medical appointments, and other appointments as necessary.
5. Administers drug and alcohol tests to Blue Earth County inmates and other individuals necessary.
6. Provides security of inmate(s) at off-site facility. Maintain custody and control of inmates when confined to hospitals or other off-site facilities.
7. Performs other related functions as apparent or assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in corrections, law enforcement, and/or probation field.
• Proficient in understanding and speaking languages other than English, such as Spanish, Somali, Chinese, Sudanese, and Arabic, among other languages.

Conditions of Employment:

• Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to drive in the State of Minnesota.
• Must comply with all federal and state laws and organizational and departmental policies and regulations.
• Must satisfactorily complete pre-employment drug test, psychological evaluation, and background check.
• Must complete pre-employment personnel evaluation profile assessment.
• Must submit to fingerprinting through the FBI and MN BCA.
• Must not have been convicted of any felony.
• Must obtain and maintain required certifications to perform the essential functions as required.
• Must adhere to data practices policies and standards regarding non-public data. Access to non-public data should be strictly limited to what is necessary to fulfill job responsibilities. While accessing these data, the employee should take reasonable steps to prevent unauthorized access by individuals without a work-related reason. Once the work-related purpose is complete, non-public data must be securely stored in accordance with county policies and Minnesota Statutes.

Hours of Work

Full-Time Involves a combination of 12-hour and 8-hour shifts, which under normal condition results in an 80-hour two week pay period. Full Time Correctional Officers bid for shifts by seniority. Day shifts are from 0500-1700 or night shifts are from 1700-0500. Regular hours will include every other weekend. Overtime and holiday hours may be required. Two-week schedule example (one day assigned as 8-hour shift):

• Week 1: work Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Week 2: work Wednesday, Thursday