Detention Officer

Dawsonville, GA
Dawson County Sheriff

Position Summary:

Under general supervision by the shift supervisor, this position ensures the security and protects the property of the facility, completes the admission process of inmates, prevents escapes, controls behavior of inmates, and protects inmates from each other. This employee must show diligence in maintaining an inmate count, prompt in dispensing medication, and be able to take custody and control of the personal property of inmates. The employee must also adhere to definite procedures established by the department to ensure that the inmates’ constitutional rights are observed. This position requires independent judgment and discretion in difficult or unusual situations, and involves personal danger and psychological stress. A person in this position does not supervise other employees.

Essential Functions:

  • Maintains a safe and secure detention facility to include performing routine inspections of cellblocks and of the perimeter of the facility; conducting random searches of inmates and cellblocks; conducting a count of inmates; monitoring officers traveling through the facility; maintaining a secure environment by correctly opening the doors officers will be traveling through and securing those doors; monitoring and alerting supervisors of any alarms signaling a disturbance; maintaining proper key control; and responding quickly and safely to emergency situations.
  • Completes the admission process for inmates to include searching incoming inmates; describing an inmate in
    the detention records; maintaining records of inmates’ personal belongings; accurately counting and depositing any money belonging to an inmate on their account; acquiring photographs of all incoming inmates; effectively fingerprinting and submitting those prints as required; completing medical evaluation forms for each inmate and determining if the inmate requires medical attention from medical staff; issuing handbooks, wristbands, and intake supplies; and performing initial interview for inmate classifications and assigning the inmate to a proper housing unit.
  • Completes the release process for inmates to include ensuring the identity of the inmate; releasing all the inmate’s property to the correct individual; accurately completing all release paperwork for the inmate; returning medications to the correct individual as dictated by medical staff; displaying the ability to effectively complete each type of bond accepted by Dawson County Sheriff’s Office; and completing G.C.I.C. check to ensure the individual has no outstanding holds or warrants and accurately notifying the correct agency and arranging to release the inmate into their custody if a hold is present.
  • Operates and maintains specific detention equipment to include completing a required safety check on Tasers, if issued; effectively using the restraint chair in required situations; and restraining inmates using handcuffs, leather straps, shackles, etc.
  • Provides for inmate daily needs to include distributing meals at proper mealtimes; assisting medical staff by
    maintaining a secure environment; administering first aid/C.P.R. to inmates or staff when necessary; escorting inmates to functions inside and outside the facility; reviewing inmate mail; collecting money orders and depositing these into the correct individual’s account; and securing the money order in a secured safe.
  • Monitors inmates’ activities to include viewing security monitors and observation windows continuously; maintaining records of inmate activity and movement through the facility; monitoring inmate visitation; performing and documenting required evaluations on special needs inmates; and monitoring for and recognizing changes in inmates’ behavior or atmosphere which may be indicative of pending disturbances.

Requirements:

  • High school education or equivalent.
  • Any combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge and skills is
    acceptable.
  • Any combination of education and training that is dictated by the agency’s standard operating procedures.
  • Valid Georgia driver’s license and satisfactory driver’s history.
  • Completion of yearly twenty (20) hours of P.O.S.T. approved training if certified as a peace officer.
  • Eighteen years of age.
  • Must complete Basic Jail Certification course and all additional DC training requirements when scheduled.
  • Citizen of the United States or qualified to work in the United States.
  • No felony convictions.