Correctional Sergeant

Correctional Sergeant – Tiptonville, TN (Department of Correction)

Salary: $61,200 – $76,476 annually (or $5,100 – $6,373 monthly)

The Correctional Sergeant performs average‑difficulty supervisory work in a state correctional facility, overseeing the custody, transportation, and rehabilitation of inmates. They may work any shift as assigned.

Education and Experience: High‑school graduation or equivalent; three years of full‑time adult or youth security work, including one year of supervisory or inmate‑relations coordination and one year of adult correctional security. Equivalent experience for a Correctional Officer may be substituted on a year‑for‑year basis.

Background checks: Motor vehicle records screening and criminal background check required.

• Be willing and able to qualify with, carry, and use assigned weapons.
• Be at least 18 years of age on the date of application.
• Be a citizen of the United States.
• Have good moral character, as determined by investigation.
• Complete a criminal history disclosure form approved by the appointing authority.
• Agree to release all records involving their criminal history.
• Supply a fingerprint sample as required for a fingerprint‑based criminal history check.
• Have no conviction for a felony or any domestic assault conviction and have not been discharged under a dishonorable condition from any branch of the U.S. armed forces.
• Pass a physical examination consistent with the ADA, relevant to the essential functions of the position.
• Pass a psychological evaluation consistent with the ADA, relevant to the essential functions of the position.
• Submit to and pass a pre‑employment screening test for illegal drug use.
• Possess a valid motor vehicle operator’s license at the time of appointment.
• Upon appointment, successfully complete all prescribed courses at the Tennessee Correction Academy and all online training.

• Supervise or perform searches of inmates and vehicles and conduct shakedowns of cells for valuables and contraband to ensure safety.
• Respond as first responder to emergencies such as medical needs, escapes, fires, and natural disasters.
• Prepare various records and reports: shift reports, daily logs, disciplinary reports, inmate passes for court and doctor appointments, daily population records.
• Restrain, secure or control inmates using restraint devices as necessary.
• Plan and coordinate activities of subordinates overseeing programs, ensuring operational priorities are met and scheduling conflicts avoided.
• Instruct employees and provide on‑the‑job training including emergency training.
• Inspect correctional facility for compliance with mandated policies and procedures.
• Maintain accountability and care of all assigned equipment: handcuffs, keys, radio, weapons and other security devices.
• Observe inmates to ensure policies and procedures are followed.
• Record incidents, disciplinary actions and activities on the State database.
• Communicate information to supervisors and subordinates regarding daily activities concerning staff and inmates.

• Decision Quality
• Builds Effective Teams
• Communicates Effectively
• Directs Works
• Drives Results

• Public Safety and Security
• Customer and Personal Service
• Law and Government

• Active Learning and Listening
• Critical Thinking
• Reading Comprehension
• Learning Strategies
• Writing

• Number Facility
• Problem Sensitivity
• Speech Clarity
• Speech Recognition
• Written Comprehension

• Personal Computer
• Telephone
• Motor Vehicles
• Copy Machine
• Radio