Corrections Classification Specialist

Identify and recommend appropriate risk and security levels within established time frames for inmates (e.g., reviews and examines inmate record file to include criminal history, outlines of arrests and convictions, commitment documents, court completed pre-sentence investigations, offender background investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation and/or Bureau of Criminal Investigation reports).

Complete pre-designed classification forms which result in numerical rating reflecting appropriate security level. Match level with related correctional facility, notify appropriate employees in cases of intensive risk level, interview inmate to complete intake questionnaire and inmate orientation checklist. Verify accuracy and consistency of file information, exchange relevant and pertinent information, ensures accuracy of inmate classification and placement recommendation, observe and notes any interview aspects or occurrences which could result in recommendation of administrative override (i.e., recommendation deviating from security level rating result), submit data to supervisor and/or Chief’s designee for review and signature.

Respond in-person or via telephone or written communication to inquiries and/or complaints from inmates. Respond to concerns and/or complaints from inmates’ families regarding inmate placement (e.g., family objections to security placement; requests for members of same family to be placed at same institution), communicates with other agencies or sources (e.g., judges, county sheriffs, prosecuting attorneys) ad general public. Complete reports (e.g., incident reports, weekly and monthly reports) and attend meetings and trainings as required.

Other duties as assigned.

• Completion of associate core program in criminal justice, sociology, social science, psychology or related field; or 18 months experience in criminal justice, corrections, sociology, social work, and/or psychology or related field; or, equivalent of minimum class qualifications for employment noted above.
• Ability to become LEADS certified.

Knowledge of agency rules and regulations governing reception and security-level classification activities. Knowledge of social sciences (e.g., social work, sociology, psychology, criminal justice), human relations and interviewing. Skill in word processing and operation of personal computer. Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Be able to use proper research methods in gathering data, gather, collate, and classify information about data, people, or things.

Ability to maintain accurate records, develop good rapport with inmates and conduct inmate interviews. Ability to handle sensitive inquiries from and contacts with inmates, their relatives, attorneys/prosecutors, judges, and general public.

Ability to walk, stand, or sit for extended or intermittent periods of time and remain alert and watchful during assigned duty hours.

Developed after employment:
Knowledge of supervision of inmates in controlled environment & related safety practices, Sheriff’s Office rules and regulations. Ability to apply Sheriff’s Office core competencies to solve practical everyday problems, develop good rapport with inmates.