Detention Officer

Person County Government is seeking qualified and motivated Detention Officers to join the Person County Sheriff’s Department at the Detention Center. This position plays a vital role in maintaining the safety, security, and orderly operation of the county jail while ensuring the humane care and custody of inmates in accordance with established policies, procedures, and legal standards.

Detention Officers are responsible for supervising inmates within the facility, ensuring compliance with rules and regulations, and maintaining a safe environment for inmates, staff, and visitors. Duties include continuous observation and escort of inmates within the jail, inmate intake and release procedures, transportation of inmates to and from court or medical appointments, and accurate completion of required documentation and records. Officers also assist in addressing inmate needs, responding to emergencies, and enforcing security protocols.

• Processes incoming inmates, completes necessary intake paperwork, searches prisoners, obtains and secures inmates’ personal property, assigns and escorts inmates to proper holding facilities, advises inmates of detention center rules and regulations.
• Arranges contacts by visits or telephone calls between inmates and relatives, court officials, attorneys; escorts inmates to visiting rooms.
• Answers telephone and radio, inspects incoming and outgoing mail.
• Distributes medication, personal hygiene items, meals, linens, clothing, mail, and other items to inmates, checks on intoxicated and other inmates in special medical or mental conditions.
• Prepares inmates for court.
• Supervises inmates in the cleaning of cells, service of food, cleaning of kitchens, office areas, clothes, and linens.
• Maintains accurate and detailed records on work and inmate activities.
• Transports inmates to court, other detention facilities, medical and mental health treatment, and other necessary trips.
• Provides canteen and meets other needs.
• Performs related work as assigned.

• High School Graduation or GED equivalent.
• Detention Officer Certification Training.
• Compliance with minimum standards for training and certification as set by the state of North Carolina for detention center personnel.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record per County policy.

The starting salary will be determined with consideration given to both the candidate's educational background and relevant work experience. This is a non‑exempt position working 2184 hours annually and is eligible for overtime.