Criminal Justice Specialist - Detention and Corrections

Overview

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office is seeking a Criminal Justice Specialist – Department of Detention & Corrections to join our team. In this role, you will support the safe and secure operation of the Pinellas County Jail by monitoring electronic security systems, controlling inmate movement, documenting facility activities, and responding to emergency situations. Your attention to detail and sound judgment will play an essential role in maintaining safety, security, and orderly operation of the detention facility.

The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, safety-focused, and calm under pressure, with strong communication and organizational skills. They can accurately document information, follow established procedures, operate computerized security systems, and interact professionally with inmates, Sheriff's Office personnel, partner agencies, and the public. The successful candidate demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to public safety.

This position offers the opportunity to support detention operations and protect the safety of staff, inmates, and visitors. We offer opportunities for professional growth, career development, and a comprehensive benefits package. The starting pay for this position is $21.43/hour. This position is scheduled for 12-hour shifts (7am-7pm, 7pm-7am, 6am-6pm or 6pm-6am, alternating a 3- and 4-day workweek). You must be able to accommodate all shifts.

The background investigation process may take up to 6 weeks depending on the complexity of the applicant's background and position applied for.

Under the general direction of a supervisor, performs work of a responsible nature related to the operation of housing unit and facility control rooms within the Department of Detention and Corrections. Members may work directly with inmate work crews if assigned to specialty units within the Department of Detention and Corrections. Work is performed in accordance with Sheriff’s Office rules, regulations, policies and procedures.

Members are expected to work with some independence. Work is reviewed through observation and results obtained.

Shift work is required.

• Monitors video and audio equipment, security gates and electronic doors, fire alarm systems, intercom/public address systems, and light circuit panels
• Assists in security at entrances and exits of various locations throughout Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office facilities by monitoring and conducting security screening of persons and items
• Documents occurrences in the control center journals and logs and maintains all required reports pertinent to activities occurring within the member’s assigned area during the course of the shift
• Initiates emergency procedures
• Maintains a current housing unit locator of all inmates assigned to the unit and coordinates movement to and from assigned housing areas
• Verifies that all non-uniformed Sheriff’s Office personnel and visitors are in possession of a Sheriff’s Office badge or a visitor’s pass, appropriately displayed
• Observes, monitors and gives direction to inmate workers both on and off of the jail compound, while assigned to a specialized post
• Regular and reliable attendance is required as an essential function of the position
• This position is considered essential and, in the event of an emergency or natural disaster, will be required to report to work
• Participates in Sheriff’s Office recruitment and community relations activities as directed

Note:

This list is not intended to be all-inclusive; the employer reserves the right to assign additional functions and responsibilities.

• High School graduation or equivalent from an institution accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) or licensed as a degree granting institution by the Commission for Independent Education
• Must possess a valid Florida driver’s license
• Consideration for this position requires a credit check

• Knowledge of modern correctional principles and practices related to control room operations
• Ability to visually observe inmate movement and monitor closed-circuit…