CHIEF JAILER

Classified position in the fulton county sheriff's office

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Chief jailer

Executive leadership position

The fulton county sheriff's office is seeking an experienced, forward-thinking chief jailer to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for multiple detention facilities and all detention-related services. This executive-level role is responsible for ensuring the safe, secure, and humane operation of county detention centers, supervising a diverse workforce, and directing a broad range of support functions including inmate services, transportation, medical coordination, classification, compliance, and administrative operations.

The ideal candidate is a decisive leader with deep knowledge of modern correctional practices, strong organizational management skills, and the ability to build a culture of professionalism, accountability, and service.

Key responsibilities

Leadership & administration

* directs, manages, and evaluates the operations of multiple detention facilities and detention support divisions.

* develops and implements policies, procedures, and operational standards aligned with federal, state, and local laws, as well as accreditation requirements.

* advises the sheriff and executive command staff on detention operations, emerging issues, staffing needs, and strategic planning.

* oversees resource allocation for all detention operations.

* leads long-range planning for facility improvements, technology upgrades, and operational efficiencies.

Operational oversight

* ensures the secure custody, care, and control of all individuals housed within county detention facilities.

* oversees intake, classification, housing assignments, inmate movement, transportation, and release processes.

* directs detention support operations including medical coordination, mental health services, food services, maintenance, inmate programs, and records management.

* ensures compliance with prea, ada, calea, ncchc, aca, and other regulatory or accreditation standards.

* coordinates emergency response planning, incident management, and critical event review.

Personnel management

* provides leadership and direction to command staff, supervisors, detention officers, and civilian personnel.

* oversees training, performance, and professional development for all detention staff.

* promotes a culture of integrity, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

* ensures staff compliance with agency policies, safety protocols, and legal requirements.

Interagency & community collaboration

* serves as the primary liaison with courts, law enforcement agencies, medical providers, mental health partners, and community organizations.

* represents the sheriff's office in meetings, public forums, and intergovernmental work groups related to detention operations.

* coordinates with county leadership on facility planning, inmate population trends, and community impact.

Minimum qualifications

* bachelor's degree in criminal justice, public administration, management, or a related field (master's degree preferred).

* extensive experience (10+ years) in corrections, detention administration, or jail operations, including progressive supervisory or command-level responsibilities.

* demonstrated experience managing large-scale operations and personnel.

* comprehensive knowledge of detention/correctional standards, inmate management practices, and legal requirements governing detention facilities.

* valid driver's license; ability to pass background investigation and meet all agency hiring standards.

Preferred qualifications

* executive-level experience overseeing multiple detention facilities or complex correctional systems.

* certification through recognized professional organizations (e.g., aca, ncchc, nena, or state jailer/corrections boards).

* experience with jail management systems, data-driven decision-making, and operational analytics.

* proven ability to lead organizational change and implement modern detention practices.

Key competencies

* strategic leadership and vision

* strong decision-making and crisis-management skills

* excellent communication and interpersonal abilities

* ethical judgment and commitment to professional standards

* ability to build partnerships and foster collaborative relationships

* skill in managing diverse teams and complex operations

How to apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, and any relevant certifications through the county's online application portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Purpose of classification:

The purpose of this classification is to perform professional level administrative and supervisory work in overseeing the daily operation of the county jail and to ensure the safety, security and welfare of inmates during incarceration.

Essential functions:

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work…