Detention Officer

The Detention Officer performs specialized, responsible, and safety‑critical duties related to the secure detention, supervision, and welfare of individuals held within the City’s detention facility. This role ensures detainee intake, processing, housing, observation, and release are conducted according to established laws, departmental policies, and best practices in detainee management. The Detention Officer maintains facility safety and cleanliness, conducts searches, monitors cameras, responds to emergencies, and interacts with detainees, police personnel, and the public in a professional and impartial manner.

Strong judgment, emotional stability, and the ability to work in a controlled but potentially volatile environment are essential. Duties and responsibilities may be modified at any time to meet the needs of the organization.

• Perform intake procedures including searching, photographing, fingerprinting, documenting, and securing personal property of detainees in accordance with criminal justice protocols.
• Maintain continuous supervision and monitoring of detainees through direct observation and video surveillance, ensuring safety, security, and compliance with established regulations.
• Conduct routine and randomized cell checks, headcounts, and welfare observations, documenting behavior, medical concerns, and unusual conditions.
• Respond to incidents, disturbances, medical emergencies, or behavioral issues using de‑escalation tactics and approved safety procedures.
• Prepare and maintain accurate logs, reports, and documentation related to detainee status, facility security, and incidents.
• Ensure facility cleanliness, sanitation, and readiness, including assisting with laundry, meals, supplies, and upkeep of holding cells.
• Communicate effectively with police personnel, emergency responders, court personnel, detainees, and the general public.
• Transport or escort detainees within the facility as necessary, ensuring security and control at all times.
• Follow all departmental policies, state regulations, and legal requirements governing detention operations.
• Perform safety inspections of holding cells, locks, cameras, and facility equipment and report deficiencies promptly.
• Demonstrate professionalism, confidentiality, and impartiality while working in a sensitive criminal justice environment.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must possess or obtain required jailer or detention certifications, including the Intoxilyzer certification, within the timeframe specified by the department.
• Must pass a criminal background check, drug screening, and other required pre‑employment assessments.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Prior experience in detention, corrections, law enforcement, military, or security services.
• Valid jailer certification from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE).
• Experience working with individuals in crisis or high‑stress environments.
• CPR/First Aid certification.

• Knowledge of detention operations, safety protocols, and legal requirements governing prisoner handling.
• Skill in written and verbal communication, report writing, and accurate recordkeeping.
• Ability to remain calm, objective, and professional in stressful or confrontational situations.
• Ability to follow detailed procedures consistently and maintain security awareness.
• Physical Demands:
  • Ability to stand, walk, kneel, reach, or climb for extended periods.
  • Ability to restrain or assist detainees when necessary.
  • Ability to lift and move objects or equipment up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to visually and audibly monitor detainees and facility alarms.

Work is performed in a secured detention facility that may include exposure to loud noises, unpredictable behaviors, bodily fluids, cleaning chemicals, and confined spaces. The environment requires constant alertness, adherence to strict safety protocols, and the ability to interact with individuals who may be uncooperative, hostile, or in crisis.

Position may…