Detention Officer Lateral - Registry

Job Summary

Maintain safety and security of inmates, staff, and detention facilities, provide custody and control of inmates, preserve order and discipline, and supervise inmates according to Pinal County Sheriff’s Office Adult Detention Center (PCSO-ADC) policies and procedures, state and Federal regulations, under basic supervision.

The application and any supplemental questions are integral to the selection process and must be completed in full to be considered. This role is compensated under a step pay structure with scheduled increases based on tenure and performance. Newly hired laterals will be placed at a step according to their full years of credited service. Eligibility for placement at a step above entry is at PCSO discretion based on training and job‑related experience, including completion of a detention/correctional academy and experience at an adult detention/correctional facility.

Applicants with prior employment as a detention/correctional officer in a municipal, federal, or private prison sector will be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• At least one year of corrections/detention work experience.
• Minimum age of nineteen (19) years.
• Certificate from an accredited Correctional Academy.
• Valid Arizona State Driver’s License.
• Must pass a thorough background investigation.
• Medical screening including TB skin test and annual testing thereafter.

Additional technical training and certifications, as directed by the Sheriff or designee.

• Knowledge of Sheriff’s Office policies, state and Federal laws governing inmate management, booking/reslease protocols, use‑of‑force rules, defensive tactics, hazardous materials, first aid, and CPR.
• Skill in interpreting laws and regulations, making sound decisions, maintaining composure, and working effectively under stress.
• Ability to communicate with inmates, mediate difficult situations, and apply effective custody and control procedures.
• Ability to operate weapons, locks, keys, chemical agents, and personal computers.
• Ability to work alternating schedules, weekends, holidays, shift work (12‑hour shifts), mandatory overtime, and call‑outs.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and work independently or as part of a team.

Essential duties require maintaining physical condition to balance, climb, crawl, crouch, grab, lift, push, pull (up to 100 lb), perform repetitive motions, and walk for prolonged periods. Adequate vision, hearing, and speech abilities are required. Physical effort includes carrying, moving, and handling persons and equipment, responding to emergencies, and using personal protective equipment.

• Paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, and paid sabbaticals.
• Retirement plans with employer contributions, medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Comprehensive wellness program, financial health planning, and fitness resources.
• Tuition reimbursement, telehealth, life insurance, flexible spending accounts, and other voluntary benefits.
• Work‑life balance supports such as alternative work schedules, short‑term disability, and Van Pool options.

Testing dates vary; applicants per test schedule must appear in person for a physical agility test, a written test, and a preliminary background review. Required documents must be presented on testing day: birth certificate or passport, high school diploma or GED, driver license, social security card, credit report, military discharge documents, vehicle insurance card, and driving history record. The process progresses through written, background, vocal stress, command interview, medical evaluation, polygraph, and final offer, culminating in orientation.

Applications are accepted until the position is filled. Applicants may be placed in a registry until a vacant position becomes available. Referrals increase your chances of interview by two‑fold.