Detention Officer

DETENTION OFFICER - Police

JOB SUMMARY:
Under direct supervision, perform all duties necessary for the successful operation of the Detention Section. Must be available to work any shift, holiday weekend, and/or days/nights as required for scheduling by supervision. In situations where there is a personnel shortage, must be able to competently work alone. Perform other related duties as required.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
·        Perform the book-in and release of prisoners; prepare bonds and fine receipts.
·        Visually, and through the use of video equipment, perform cell checks to monitor prisoner status and behavior.
·        Monitor Public Safety Campus and other City building security cameras and report any suspicious persons/activity to a supervisor.
·        Fingerprint, photograph, handcuff and physically search prisoners.
·        Facilitate prisoner visitations with relatives and legal counsel.
·        Dispense medication as prescribed.
·        Order prisoner food; prepare and serve meals to prisoners.
·        Lock cell doors, take physical action to prevent escapes and/or assaults, subdue combative/violent prisoners.
·        Escort prisoners from one area to another, including out-of-building escorts as required.
·        Issue prisoner towels and personal hygiene articles; stock office supplies; inventory equipment and supplies.
·        Clean Detention facilities.
·        Assist in preparing appropriate documentation to ensure the timely transfer of prisoners.
·        Collect, accurately count money, and make change.
·        Answer and place telephone calls related to prisoner status and transfer requests.
·     Proficiently operate all equipment in the Detention Facility, including video and audio equipment, computers, multi-line telephones, photography equipment, fingerprint equipment, cell door locks, personal alarms, two-way radio, emergency breathing apparatus, AED, food preparation equipment, calculator, laundry equipment and other equipment as required.
·        Attend/testify in all criminal and civil courts when summoned.
·        Attend training schools/seminars and other City related events, which may require travel (occasionally overnight).
·        Climb, kneel, bend, crawl and/or stoop to perform physical searches of the Detention Facility.
·        Stand for extended periods of time in a confined space to process prisoners.
·        Remove supplies from overhead storage cabinets.
·        Drag and/or carry prisoner or employee with minimum weight of 168 pounds a minimum of 20 yards, in the event of injury or fire.
·        Communicate courteously, effectively, and clearly, in English, verbally and in writing, with other City employees, officials, and the public.
·        Perform basic mathematical functions.
·        Maintain various paper and computer files.
·        Accurately read and record information.
·        Assist in training new employees and in completing written performance evaluations; assist in budget preparation.
·        Assist the public and Department personnel with requests by telephone, in written communications, and in person at a service window.
·        Perform other related duties as required.
·        Must not pose a threat to the health or safety of self or others.
·        Drive City vehicle to conduct City business.

REQUIRED EDUCATION, DEGREES, CERTIFICATES, AND/OR LICENSE:
 High school diploma or G.E.D. required. Valid Texas Driver's License, Class C or above, required.

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:
 One year recent work experience preferred. Must be able to pass: a background check on previous employment; motor vehicle record check; pre-employment examinations including written and oral exams; physical agility test; drug screening; polygraph examination; and post-offer physical and psychological medical examinations. Must be able to make correct decisions in stressful situations; think clearly and act effectively in emergency situations; possess good interpersonal skills, written communication skills, reading comprehension skills; possess the ability to memorize and understand oral/written information; and possess the ability to perform basic numerical calculations.