Jail Officer

Position Summary

Under general supervision, provides security for the facility, as well as, ensuring the welfare of the inmates of the Pottawatomie County Jail. General responsibilities include, but are not limited to, booking and releasing offenders, maintaining security of the facility, escorting offenders within and/or outside the secure confines of the jail. Typical duties also include: Caring for and maintaining the security and well-being of all inmates.  This includes but not limited to, the supervision of inmates; conducting safety and security inspections, providing access and transportation to health care facilities and court appearances; conducting housing, feeding, bedding, and well being/welfare activities; and maintaining accurate intake, care and release records.  Provides access and egress control to the facility and all its inner areas.

Duties of this position can vary between shifts and the area assigned, thus requiring individual judgment within prescribed policies and procedures. Personal conduct on and off duty must be such that it does not bring disrepute or unnecessarily endanger the public’s trust or confidence in the agency or its members.

 

Regular Duties Include:

 

  • Effectively communicating with inmates in a professional manner while preserving the safety and security of the facility, staff, and other inmates.
  • Operating a motor vehicle, entering into, and exiting out of vehicle frequently.
  • Possessing the ability to properly supervise inmate movement within the facility within prescribed established security protocol.
  • Supervising inmates during leisure time activities, court, appointments, and work details.
  • Supervising inmates and visitors during visiting hours.
  • Conducting periodic cell checks.
  • Performing searches of inmates
  • Performing searches of cells and other areas for contraband.
  • Performing fingerprinting and taking photographs while booking inmates.
  • Using and properly maintaining handcuffs, leg irons, and other inmate restraints.
  • Accurately preparing routine forms and documentation specific to inmate records.
  • Accurately preparing reports, correspondence and documents in a clear, concise and understandable manner.
  • Conducting inmate feeding.
  • Distributing prescribed medication in accordance with qualified medical directives.
  • Monitoring multiple video screens, alarms and inmate activity as well as the ability to operate electronic control panels efficiently.
  • Transporting and providing security for inmates to medical appointments, court appearances, Kansas Department of Corrections Facilities, of other facilities as required by court order.
  • Monitoring and enforcing the general maintenance of the facility by the inmate population.
  • Ensuring that facilities, cells, and grounds are kept sanitary.
  • Maintaining strict accountability of all individually assigned equipment and jail property.
  • Maintaining and applying knowledge of current departmental policies, procedures, laws, and regulations and knowing where to look for information if not known.
  • Reporting and, if directed by a supervisor, investigating all incidents and violations of rules at the facility for disciplinary reports and possible citation or arrest.
  • Collecting and securing evidence
  • Maintaining and exhibiting discretion and integrity at all times and giving factual testimony in court.
  • Supervising, guarding, and protecting inmates during court sessions, maintaining responsibility for the courtroom.
  • Conducting inmate laundry exchange that includes the monitoring of all washing of inmate laundry.
  • Performing all other duties as needed or requested by the Sheriff or Undersheriff.

 

Minimum Requirements:

  1. Must be a U.S. Citizen
  2. Must be 21 years of age at the time of hire.
  3. Must possess a High School Diploma or GED.
  4. Must possess a Valid Kansas Drivers License.
  5. Must pass all pre-employment requirements to include, but not limited to, work related physical proficiency/agility test, medical/physical examination, written test, drug test, psychological screening, and extensive background investigation.
  6. Must have NO felony convictions or expunged conviction and, on and after 1 July 1995, has not been placed upon diversion by any state or the federal government for a felony offense or misdemeanor crime of domestic violence or its equivalent under the uniform code of military justice. (KSA’s 74-5605 and 74-5616).

Must NOT have been dishonorably discharged from any branch of the U.S. armed forces or have a background that would be disrespectful to the profession of law enforcement.

  1. Must meet residency requirements in accordance with department policy.

 

Experience in jailing or correction work is preferred but not required. Current first-aid and cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification (American Red Cross or equivalent) must be acquired prior to completion of initial training and must also be maintained as a condition of employment. In order to meet the needs of the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office, employees may be assigned other duties, in addition to, or in lieu of, those described above. Any duties are subject to change at any time. Employees must successfully complete a 6 month probationary training and assessment period from the date of employment.