Detention Officer

$3,000 Hiring Incentive: One time incentive paid in $1,000 increments (not added to base salary). Newly hired Detention Officers will receive the incentive upon satisfactory job performance after 3, 6, and 12 months of service for a total of $3,000. Officers who complete POST Certification within 18 months of hire and are promoted to Deputy Sheriff will receive an additional $3,000 incentive distributed over a one‑year period following promotion for a total of $6,000.

Continuation of this program is subject to available funding and managerial approval.

Reporting: Shift Supervisor or Sergeant.

FLSA Status: Non‑exempt.

Classification: Personnel System;
Requires satisfactory completion of a twelve month probationary period.

Pay Grade: Public Safety Step Plan.

Safety Sensitive: Yes; subject to random drug testing per the Athens‑Clarke County Drug and Alcohol Ordinance.

The purpose of this position is to ensure security and protection of property of the jail facility, complete the admission process of inmates, prevent escapes, control behaviour of inmates, protect inmates from each other, and provide for the wellbeing of inmates. The incumbent must be diligent in maintaining an inmate count, oversee dispensing of medication, and be able to take personal property of inmates.

The incumbent must also adhere to standard operating procedures to ensure inmates’ constitutional rights are observed. It is a demanding position that requires a heightened state of readiness at all times. The role does not supervise other employees.

Work Schedule: Twelve (12) hour shifts from 7:45 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. assigned permanently to day or night, available for any shift at any time. Weekends and holidays included. Overtime required from time to time. May be required to work on religious holidays. Regular and predictable attendance is required. Must work cooperatively with others. When vehicle operation is required, responsible for safety, readiness, and operation of the vehicle and must abide by ACC’s safe driving policy.

Emergency Position: Designated as an emergency position requiring attendance under all types of emergency conditions, including inclement weather, utility failure, fire, or other forced evacuations or as determined by the Manager.

• Complete admission forms for inmates being booked.
• Search incoming inmates for concealed weapons and contraband; record personal property taken from inmates.
• Fingerprints and photograph inmates for identification.
• Determine if medical care of the inmate is necessary.
• Explain rules and regulations to inmates and prepare them for population.
• Work closely with jail medical staff for dispensing medications at proper times.
• Distribute meals at mealtime.
• Calm emotionally upset inmates.
• Permit and monitor inmate showers.
• Observe inmates’ behaviour to ensure orderly and safe environment.
• Administer First Aid and CPR to inmates or staff when necessary.
• Maintain fair and professional attitude with inmates and staff from various social backgrounds.
• Maintain order over inmates.
• Take appropriate action to ensure safety and security of inmates, public, and law enforcement.
• Respond to emergency situations, evacuate inmates, mediate conflicts, and any other required actions.
• Check cell doors and internal conditions at regular and irregular intervals.
• Conduct random searches of inmates and secure areas.
• Count inmates at regular and irregular intervals.
• View security monitors continuously.
• Operate security electronic systems, intercom, restraining devices, chemical agents, radios, locking devices.
• Operate safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and SCBA.
• Supervise inmate workers performing assignments.
• Supervise housing environment of up to 72 inmates through communication and privilege management.
• Enforce inmate rules and regulations with effective communication and consistency.
• Maintain records of daily activities, inmate movements, disciplinary actions, visitation.
• Accept grievances made by inmates.
• Escort inmates to and from cells for court appearances, medical treatment, visitation, religious services, conferences, release and other…