Law Enforcement Officer III

Law Enforcement Officer III – Newton County, MS

$43,509.31 - $74,237.76 Annually

51 – Newton County, MS

Full‑Time

Job Number: NEW 0372 – MH‑EAST MS STATE HOSPITAL

Opening Date: 07/20/2026

East Mississippi State Hospital is a state-operated psychiatric facility under the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, providing comprehensive inpatient and residential mental health services to individuals across the region. Through a multidisciplinary approach, EMSH serves a diverse population with a strong emphasis on safety, quality care, and recovery-focused treatment. In addition to its psychiatric services, EMSH operates multiple programs and facilities across Meridian, Newton, and Kemper, allowing the hospital to meet a broad range of clinical and operational needs.

EMSH is committed to delivering high‑quality services while maintaining compliance with applicable state, federal, and accreditation standards.

The Law Enforcement Officer performs advanced law enforcement and security functions to support the safety and operational needs of East Mississippi State Hospital’s Newton campus. This position is responsible for patrolling campus grounds, group homes, and buildings; responding to calls for service, incidents, and emergency codes; preparing incident and vehicle collision reports; assisting with admissions and visitation functions; conducting rooms, unit, and vehicle searches;

providing patient transportation support as needed; and assisting with hazardous materials collection and substance identification procedures. The Law Enforcement Officer helps maintain a safe and secure environment for patients, staff, visitors, and property and performs related duties in accordance with applicable laws, agency procedures, and the direction of the Public Safety Director.

To be successful in this position, the employee must demonstrate sound judgment, professionalism, and the ability to respond calmly and effectively in a variety of law enforcement and public safety situations. The employee should be able to maintain alertness, follow established procedures, communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, and complete required documentation accurately and in a timely manner. Success in this role also requires dependability, strong observational skills, physical readiness, and the ability to interact appropriately with patients, staff, visitors, and outside agencies while helping maintain a safe and secure environment.

Typically requires possession of a State of Mississippi Law Enforcement Professional Certification and 2‑4 years of experience in law enforcement. Agency prefers: experience in campus law enforcement, healthcare security, behavioral health, institutional safety, or public sector law enforcement. Experience preparing incident reports, responding to emergency calls, conducting searches, and working in a secure campus or residential setting is also preferred.

Address 210 East Capitol Street

Suite 800

Jackson, Mississippi, 39201