Detention Officer

The Vernon County Sheriff's Office in Nevada, MO is now accepting applications for the position of:

Detention Officer Position Type:

Full-time Pay Range:

$17.74 per hour Benefits include: Vacation, Paid Holidays, Sick Pay, Health/Dental/Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, 2 Retirement Programs - CERF and Lagers, 401(k) Position Summary A Detention Officer is responsible for the safety, security, and care of inmates within the county jail facility. This role involves maintaining order, enforcing facility rules, and ensuring the protection of both staff and the inmate population. It requires a high level of vigilance, professional ethics, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

Key Responsibilities Security & Surveillance:

Conduct regular patrols of housing units, perform headcounts, and monitor inmate behavior to prevent altercations, escapes, or self-harm.

Booking & Processing:

Manage the intake of new arrests, including searching individuals, fingerprinting, photographing, and inventorying personal property.

Safety Enforcement:

Conduct thorough searches of cells and common areas for contraband (weapons, drugs, or unauthorized items).

Inmate Management:

Supervise inmate movements to and from court, medical appointments, visitations, and recreational areas.

Conflict Resolution:

De-escalate verbal and physical confrontations using agency-approved communication techniques and, when necessary, authorized physical force.

Documentation:

Maintain accurate daily logs and prepare detailed incident reports regarding rule violations, medical emergencies, or unusual occurrences.

Public Interaction:

Monitor and facilitate professional and social visits, ensuring all security protocols are followed by members of the public.

Required Qualifications Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Legal:

Must be at least 18 years of age, a U.S. citizen, and possess a valid driver's license.

Background:

Must pass a comprehensive background check, drug screening, and often a psychological evaluation and polygraph.

Physical Ability:

Must be able to stand for long periods, run in emergencies, and physically restrain individuals if necessary.

Preferred Skills & Attributes Communication:

Ability to give clear commands and listen effectively to diverse populations.

Integrity:

Maintaining high ethical standards in a challenging environment.

Adaptability:

Remaining effective during rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Judgment:

Making quick, sound decisions during high-stress or emergency situations.

Working Conditions Environment:

High-stress, confined indoor environment with potential exposure to hostile individuals and biohazards.

Schedule:

Typically requires 12-hour shifts (6:00am - 6:00pm or 6:00pm - 6:00am.)

Physical Demands:

Frequent walking, climbing stairs, and occasional heavy lifting or physical exertion.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$17.74 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Education:

High school or equivalent (Required)

License/Certification:

Driver's License (Required) Shift availability: Overnight Shift (Preferred) Night Shift (Preferred) Day Shift (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person