Detention Assistant

The objective of this job is to assist Detention Deputies by performing clerical/support functions associated with the care of inmates. It involves some typing, filing, and other clerical functions. It also involves manning electronically operated control positions to assure the authorized movement of person(s) throughout the jail facility. Detention Assistants may work in any division in the jail. Their specific job functions are listed in the respective post order.

• A. Abide by the "Law Enforcement Code of Ethics."
• B. Thoroughly know, understand and comply with Agency procedures, rules and regulations, Florida State Statutes, the Florida Model Jail Standards and accreditation standards relating to this position.
• C. Answer and place calls at switchboard.
• D. Answer questions from the public in a courteous and efficient manner.
• E. Take messages for employees, and distribute as necessary.
• F. Write receipts for bonds, fines, inmate property, and other items.
• G. Encode inmate funds into the computer for new inmates.
• H. Type miscellaneous reports and forms.
• I. Man control rooms, as required, by operating control panels, observing doors and controls, performing control panel tests, and other required duties according to specific post orders.
• J. Check flashlights, radios, and other emergency equipment in the control room on a daily basis, and routinely check alarms for proper operation.
• K. Control sign in/out log for inmate visitors during visiting hours, and assist other visitors as necessary.
• L. Assist Detention Deputies as directed.
• M. Observe Detention Deputy(s) as he/she enters into the inmate housing area. Radio for assistance as needed.
• N. Observe inmates in the housing units and alert Detention Deputies to any problems or rule violations.
• O. Be alert for conditions or situations which inhibit efficient operation of the Agency or the Detention Bureau, and make recommendations for solutions.
• P. Perform other related duties, as assigned, including modified schedule or temporary re-assignment during declared emergency or activations, as determined by the Sheriff.
• Q. Attend Training as required.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability to follow instructions and organize own work.
• Ability to understand and follow English language instructions, both verbal and written.
• Ability to use general office machines such as copy machines and computers.
• Ability to handle highly sensitive information without compromising confidentiality.
• Ability to work harmoniously with the public and Agency personnel.
• Possess normal sight and hearing, and physical agility required for standing, walking, and climbing stairs.
• Possess a valid Florida Driver’s License.

• Maintain a valid Florida Driver’s License.

Detention Assistants work in an adult detention facility. They do not have direct control or supervision of inmates, but work in proximity of inmates. May be subjected to or within hearing range of verbal abuse. Possibility of physical abuse remote but present. Required to work shift work, including nights, weekends and holidays. During some shifts, may be required to spend entire shift in a locked control room.

May be required to work overtime when necessary.

Physical and dexterity requirements:
Requires light to medium work that involves walking or standing virtually all of the time, must be able to climb stairs, and involves exerting between 10 and 30 pounds of force on a recurring basis, the ability to sit at a desk and view a display screen for extended periods of time and operate control mechanisms remotely.

Environmental hazards:
The job may risk exposure to extreme heat and/or cold, bright/dim light, dusts and pollen, wet or humid conditions, extreme noise levels, animals/wildlife, vibrations, fumes and/or noxious odors, traffic, moving machinery, diseases/pathogens and violence.

Sensory requirements:
The job requires normal visual acuity and field of vision, hearing, speaking, color perception, sense of smell, depth perception and texture perception.

The Office of the Sheriff is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the Office of the Sheriff to…