Detention Officer - Detention Center

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Regular attendance is an essential function of this position.

• Maintains a healthful and secure environment for the inmates housed in the Detention Center in accordance with established policies, regulations and procedures.

• Performs duties specifically assigned and any post orders at the Lea County Detention Center; follows chain of command.

• Maintains accurate records of inmate incarceration, property, cell assignments, movements, mail and visitations.

• Assists in the movement of inmates throughout the Center.

• Performs pat down and strip search of inmates in dorms and cells, shakedowns as directed.

• Inspects locks, windows, bars, grills, doors and gates for tampering.

• Observes conduct and behavior of inmates to prevent disturbances and escape or infraction of rules and regula­tions.

• Employs reasonable force when necessary to maintain order among inmates or to remove an inmate from a specific area.

• Patrols assigned area for evidence of forbidden activi­ties, infraction of rules and unsatisfactory attitudes or adjustment of inmates and reports such observations to supervisors.

• Escorts inmates in transit for medical appointments or other appointments; maintains guard duty at a medical facility when an inmate is admitted to such by a physician.

• Receives and records bonds and fines.

• Must complete and pass all training requirements all in a specific period of time, including CPR, self-defense, defensive driving and other training as required by Warden.

• Shift work is required; rotation of shifts, or transfer from one shift to another, may be required; irregu­lar hours and overtime may also be required.

• An officer may be assigned to an adult section or juvenile section as needed. No officer is guaranteed work in just one section or for just one shift to the exclusion of the others.

• Maintains confidentiality and security for special assignments.

• Remains on-call 24 hours a day for emergencies.

• Must maintain a telephone for 24-hour use.

• Must attend all scheduled staff meetings, training, etc. as directed by supervisors.

OTHER DUTIES:

• May transport inmates to and from courts, mental health facilities, court quarters and other institutions or juris­dictions as directed by Warden. Performs intake and release of inmates to ensure proper classification and documentation.

• May be called on to provide testimony in courts of law. May be required to participate in or prepare cases for internal hearings.

• The duties of a Detention Officer are not limited to those set forth above. The employee will perform such functions, duties and assignments as given by a supervisor, consistent with ability, background and expertise.

• The duties of a Detention Officer may vary depending on the particular shift the officer is assigned to work.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

• High School diploma or GED required.

• College course work preferred.

• Specialized training in law enforcement or corrections highly recommended.

Experience:

• Must be at least 21 years of age.

• Must demonstrate acceptable and stable work record.

• Experience in law enforcement and correc­tions highly desirable.

Certifications, Skills and Licenses:

• Ability to communicate orally and in writing in English. Bilingual (English/Spanish) helpful.

• Must possess valid New Mexico driver's license.

• Must be certified in CPR or become certified within one year of employment.