CONTROL CENTER SPECIALIST (SIDE-BY-SIDE)

IMPORTANT: This position is considered a "side by side" status. This means the position is of temporary status until the current incumbent returns to work from a leave status. Once the incumbent of this position returns to work, the position is subject to elimination.

Under general supervision, performs duties providing for the safety and security of residents, staff, and visitors at the juvenile detention facility; controls access and movement of persons within the secured facility; maintains and operates centralized communication and alarm systems; observes and monitors activities within and outside of the facility by means of video monitoring equipment. 

1. Controls access of individuals to the facility; screens visitors, residents, and employees in an efficient manner in order to expedite their admittance; verifies identification and credentials of individuals gaining admittance; schedules visits; provides information regarding detained juveniles and facility procedures.
2. Operates surveillance cameras to monitor entrances and exits to prevent unauthorized entry or exit; operates electronic door system to control movement of individuals throughout the facility.
3. Monitors and coordinates youth movements via radio communications; maintains a perpetual juvenile population count; records youth movements and events in daily logs and reports.
4. Operates and maintains camera monitors, computer control panel screens, and alarm systems; ensures equipment is in good working order; monitors panel and responds to alarms; maintains log of alarms and system malfunctions.
5. Responds to emergencies situations such as fire, medical emergency, flood, and hazardous spills following facility protocol; notifies proper agency including law enforcement, Emergency Medical Services, and/or fire department.
6. Operates and maintains centralized communication system; maintains continuous internal communications between facilities and staff; utilizes intercom system, two-way radios, telephone system, and wireless communication systems.
7. Observes and monitors activities and youth behavior by use of video monitors and intercoms; reports incidents, infractions of rules and procedures, potential safety and health hazards, and suspicious activity to management.
8. Prepares and maintains daily activity logs, incident reports; enters/retrieves data from personal computer; briefs on-coming shift of prior shift activities.
9. May assist in processing admissions and releases, transportation of youth, and performing duties of Youth Service Worker as required.
10. Attends mandatory training; responsible for general housekeeping of work area.
11. May transport youth outside of the facility as needed. 
12. Performs other duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of the principles and practices relating to the operation of juvenile detention facilities.
• Knowledge of the Iowa Juvenile Code and Licensing and Accreditation standards.
• Knowledge of the methods and techniques used in enforcing discipline of youth.
• Knowledge of abnormal behavior in youth.
• Knowledge of juvenile court system procedures.
• Basic knowledge of computer-based alarm systems, controlled access, and/or physical security.
• Skill in the use of personal computers.
• Skill in observation and listening. 
• Good visual acuity. 
• Ability to pay attention to details. 
• Ability to operate security console equipment including video monitors, fire/security alarm systems, and intercom systems.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently and work in a locked, secured, and/or stressful environment.
• Ability to interpret readings on a computer control panel screen and identify audible alarms.
• Ability to read and comprehend written instructions and procedures, instruction manuals, and equipment operation manuals.
• Ability to quickly recognize problems as they arise and take immediate and appropriate steps to intervene.
• Ability to enforce rules and policies with fairness, impartiality, and tact.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to interact effectively with youth and families from diverse cultures or socio-economic status.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with parents, guardians, youth, staff, juvenile court officers, social workers, and others involved with care of the youth.
• Ability to remain mentally alert to visually observe for suspicious activity, breaches in security, and safety issues.
• Ability to maintain composure and exercise sound judgement under stressful conditions.
• Ability to participate in physical restraint of hostile, aggressive, and combative youth.
• Ability to sit for extended periods of time
• Ability to utilize personal computer up to 7 hours per day.
• Ability to lift, puh, pull, and carry up to 75 lbs.
• Ability to participate in the physical restraint of hostile, aggressive, and combative youth.
• Ability to accurately prepare and maintain reports and records and compile statistics.
• Ability to foster a collaborative and professional work environment.

• Graduation from high school or equivalent, and 
• Three years of relevant work experience in an institutional setting dealing with the welfare of dependent or delinquent youth, or 
• Associate's Degree in Human Services, psychology, sociology, criminal justice or related, and 
• One year of relevant work experience in an institutional setting dealing with the welfare of dependent or delinquent youth, or 
• Any equivalent combination of education and experience that will provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.  

Special Requirements: 

• Candidate is required to obtain Safe Crisis Management certification, or equivalent, within six months of hire and maintain annually.
• Candidate is required to obtain CPR/AED and First Aid certifications are required within six months of hire and maintain annually. 
• Candidate must pass a post-employment offer physical examination and physical capacity testing to ensure candidate meets the essential physical requirements of the position.
• Candidate must pass a physical examination every three years. 
• Candidate must pass a tuberculosis test annually.
• Candidate must pass a Criminal History Record Check through the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation and a Child/Adult Abuse Record Check through the Iowa Department of Human Services as defined in the State of Iowa licensing and accreditation standards (IAC 441, Chapter 105). Annual checks are required.
• A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment.
• A valid State of Iowa driver’s license is required. Candidate must obtain a Class D Chauffeur’s license within six months of hire and maintain annually. 
• Ability to work evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime outside of normal work hours with minimal advance notice as required.

Polk County is committed to providing a work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.