Detention Center Lieutenant

The Detention Center Lieutenant performs supervisory and coordinative work related to inmate detention and care during an 8‑hour shift within the County Detention Center. An employee in this class directs the daily activities of one or more shifts and programs, determines work schedules, and works with shift supervisors to assign officers to specific areas and assignments. The position ensures County policies are followed and that employees treat inmates fairly and firmly.

The employee provides input into the modification and development of policies and procedures, interprets them for staff and inmates, and participates in the performance appraisal process for Detention Officer positions. The Lieutenant facilitates inmate problems, serves as a conduit between staff and administration for staff problems, and handles inmate grievances. The role requires tact and firmness in frequent contacts with staff and unstable inmates, and it is performed under the direct supervision of the Assistant Detention Center Administrator, with performance evaluated through observation and shift reports.

• Directs the activities of the shift(s) within the County Detention Center; ensures all work is completed in an effective and efficient manner; develops work schedules and determines work assignments.
• Participates in the development of operational policies and provides interpretation to staff; performs performance appraisals on subordinate staff.
• Provides orientation to new personnel and to inmates; instructs officers in the performance of their duties.
• Supervises inmate counts and the maintenance of all records to ensure inmate location accountability; supervises periodic searches of inmate quarters for contraband.
• Ensures reports and records are maintained.
• Supervises inmate intake processing; ensures staff and inmate safety by implementing custody and security procedures.
• Schedules shift assignment; organizes the operation of detention programs including processing records completion and maintenance, security, visitation, transportation, and release.
• Oversees the security and activities of inmates; supervises meals and cleaning of facilities; distributes personal property; monitors inmates’ medical status and takes action when illness or injury is suspected.
• Participates in training of new and existing staff.
• Performs work in various areas of the Detention Center and makes assignments as needed such as inmate intake, court transportation and security, and working the floor and control booth.
• May be on call to respond to emergencies.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Requires a high school diploma or equivalent and five (5) years of experience in law enforcement, corrections detention, and the custody and care of inmates, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Possession of a valid driver’s license.
• Possession of North Carolina Detention Center Officer Certification.
• Must meet the minimum standards set by the State of North Carolina for detention facility personnel.

Must be able to work flexible hours, including shift work, weekends, holidays, and emergencies.

• Knowledge of local government operations, policies and plans, and modern office practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other similar programs.
• Knowledge of federal, State, and local laws pertaining to inmate sentencing, pretrial conditions, and release.
• Knowledge of policies and procedures covering inmate security, classification, care, and discipline.
• Skill in prioritizing and organizing work.
• Skill in verbal and written communication.
• Ability to supervise and direct the work of subordinate officers.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in routine and emergency situations.
• Ability to work in a hazardous and confining work environment.
• Ability to deal tactfully and firmly with inmates and the public.
• Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with supervisor, other employees, and the public.
• Ability to actively listen to inmate conversations and sounds in the…