DETENTION OFFICER I

The purpose of this position is to provide and maintain security, safety, care, and control of inmates, detention facility, and facility equipment in the County jail. This is an entry level position in which incumbents work under direct supervision and enroll in required training.  

• Ensures the security and safety of inmates; supervises inmates to prevent injury to themselves or by other inmates; responds to alarms; conducts inmate and cell searches to remove contraband materials and weapons; and provides inmates with information regarding charges, bonding, attorneys, and personal interactions.
• Monitors and accounts for inmates; conducts intake/booking of inmates on arrival; monitors and ensures that all inmates are accounted for and are secured in their cells; conducts walkthroughs and body counts; and monitors the control towers and video surveillance system.
• Provides inmates with daily living needs; issues clothing; performs inmate meal distribution and commissary distribution; oversees recreation activities and religious services; and may participate in operation of cafeteria and laundry services.
• Transports inmates to different locations; transports or escorts inmates to different locations within the facility or to locations outside the facility; and maintains control at all times.
• Ensures the security and safety of facility staff and visitors; monitors visitor access to facilities; conducts searches for contraband materials; and escorts visitors within the facility.  
• Processes a variety of documentation associated with department/division operations, within designated timeframes, and per established procedures receives and reviews various documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards, or retains as appropriate; prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, and other documentation; compiles data for further processing or for use in preparation of department reports; and maintains computerized and/or hardcopy records. 
• Operates a personal computer to enter, retrieve, review, or modify data, utilizing Microsoft Office, Police Central, database, Internet, e-mail, or other software; and operates general office or other equipment as necessary to complete essential functions. 
• Operates or utilizes various equipment, firearms, Taser, handcuffs, batons, fingerprint machine, radio, personal protective gear, and other supplies in order to complete work assignments. 
• Communicates with supervisor, inmates, other law enforcement agencies and officers, other County employees, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems.
• Performs other related duties as assigned. 

Education and Experience:

Requires a High School diploma or equivalent. No prior experience is required; training will be provided.

Licenses or Certifications:

Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license. 

Special Requirements: 

None.

• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:   

  • Knowledge of local government operations, law enforcement related programs, policies and plans, and modern office practices and procedures.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other similar programs.
  • Skill in the use of computers and software applications related to the essential functions of the job. 
  • Skill in effective communication, both verbally and in writing. 
  • Skill in the use and safety of firearms.
  • Ability to meet and deal with employees and the public in an effective and courteous manner.
  • Ability to get along with others and work effectively with the public and co-workers.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evening meetings.
  • Ability to multi-task and work within deadlines.  
  • Ability to deal with confidential and sensitive matters.
  • Ability to work with and process payments for accounts within the HR budget and department.  
  • Ability to use computers for data entry, word processing, and accounting purposes. 
  • Ability to operate a copying machine. 

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  PHYSICAL DEMANDS

   

  The work is medium work which requires exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Requires mental acuity including the ability to make rational decisions through sound logic and deductive processes, the ability to express ideas by means of the spoken word and have close visual acuity. 

   

  WORK ENVIRONMENT

   

  Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions and may require standing for extended periods of time. Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as dirt, odors, wetness, humidity, rain, hazardous materials, traffic hazards, toxic agents, human bites, explosives, firearms, violence, disease, and pathogenic substances. The noise level in the work environment may be at times moderate to loud.

   

  Henry County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions described in this job description.  Henry County encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.  Henry County will comply with all applicable federal regulations and Henry County's insurance requirements governing workplace anti-drug and alcohol programs. Henry County employees shall be subject to the provisions of the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988.