Sheriff's Office Detention Specialist

Mission To be a reliable and proactive agency that protects and serves the community equally.

Vision To provide a trusted and respected service to our community through strong leadership, professionalism, and innovation.

Values Dependability, Collaboration, Compassion, Unity.

Position Summary A Detention Specialist maintains the security of the jail (in our control towers) while preserving order to ensure the safety and welfare of staff, visitors, and inmates.

• Adhere to policy, procedures, and post orders.
• Answer calls for service, complete paperwork, testify in court, resolve conflict.
• Disseminate information to citizens and other law enforcement professionals.
• Prepare various reports.
• Observe activities to ensure safety of Sheriff’s Office staff, contract staff and inmates.
• Communicate via computer, telephone, two‑way radio and intercom systems.
• Monitor and record inmate access and movement through the control towers.
• Operate control panels and emergency alarm systems.
• Report to Platoon Sergeant.
• Control access between front entrance, rear entrance and other secured areas.
• Track inmate movement by logging data into the computer system using JMS.
• Maintain balance of inmates using roster, computer log and physical count.
• Participate in training.
• Maintain inventory and key control.
• Notify Sergeant of emergency situations and contact other agencies (SWAT, Ambulance, Fire Dept, etc.).
• Monitor emergency alarms and ensure system operability.
• Perform main switchboard operations for incoming calls for Sheriff’s Office Facilities.
• Observe deputy movement on the floor to ensure safety and security from control tower and assigned duty posts.
• Record inmate information on chronological records documenting disciplinary actions, contacts, extra issue items, medical needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Complete the online test at  before applying.

• Minimum 18 years of age.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Valid Colorado driver’s license.
• Type 25 WPM with accuracy.
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to multi‑task.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Maintain confidentiality, interact with diverse groups.
• Pass the online test mentioned above.

Experience working in a detention facility is preferred but not required.

Adams County and the 17th Judicial District Attorney’s Office comply with Colorado’s Job Application Fairness Act (“JAFA”). JAFA prohibits asking applicants for age or date of birth on initial application. Additional materials may request such information; applicants may redact identifying details.

Benefits You Expect

• AFLAC Supplemental Medical Insurance
• Basic Term Life & Optional Term Life Insurance
• Deferred Compensation Plan
• Dental/Vision/Medical Plans
• Generous Vacation/Sick Leave
• Long-Term Disability
• Retirement Plan
• Short-Term Disability

Plus Some You Might Not Expect

• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Fitness Center
• Employee Health Clinics
• Flexible Work Schedules
• Recreation Center Discounts
• Training & Tuition Reimbursement Programs
• Wellness Programs
• Lactation friendly certified workplace

Scroll down to Colorado and select Adams County Sheriff’s Office, then choose Continue. The site provides an in‑person location and a virtual option for taking the test (select one) and schedule accordingly.