
Posting number: 02479
Department: DETENTION & CORRECTIONS
Job classification: DETENTION OFFICER (UNCERTIFIED)
Posting type: Open
Categories: Law Enforcement
THIS POSITION IS ELIGIBLE FOR A $5000 SIGON BONUS ONCE CERTIFIED. This position is eligible for employee referral incentive
The purpose of this position
is to provide for the safety of staff and inmates and the security of the detention facility; to supervise inmate activities; and to perform related corrections and law enforcement work as assigned. This position works under close to general supervision according to set procedures but determines how or when to complete tasks.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
•Maintains the security and safety of the detention facility, inmates and staff through implementation of established policies and procedures.
•Interviews detainees ascertain if detainee has a bond hearing; and checks rap sheets to see where detainee needs to be housed. May reclassify detainee housing if there are issues.
•Monitors detention center access and egress.
•Monitors security cameras, closed circuit TV system, alarm systems, automated locking systems and other specialized security equipment.
•Processes and books inmates; searches, photographs and fingerprints inmates; secures inmates’ property; and issues supplies.
•Supervises meals, visitation, recreation and exercise, educational activities, telephone privileges, counseling, court visits, movement within the facility, and medical attention; conducts head counts regularly.
•Maintains control of assigned work crews.
•Ensures that inmates are provided with appropriate sanitary conditions, clothing and supplies; administers First Aid as required.
•May assist with processing indigent envelopes as needed; obtaining supplies as needed; and delivering inmate mail.
•Patrols facility to ensure security; inspects locking and security devices and doors
for proper working conditions.
•Routinely searches inmates, cells, kitchen and other inmate accessible areas for
contraband and other safety and security hazards.
•Observes and maintains orderly conduct among inmate population; subdues unruly or violent individuals; responds to emergency situations on jail property; and investigates incidents, crimes, disputes, abuse of drugs, etc., among inmates and detainees.
•Processes inmates for release as ordered.
•Transports inmates to court or to other facilities as required.
•Completes and maintains required paperwork.
•Performs custodial and general maintenance of jail facility and equipment.
•Communicates with law enforcement personnel, probation and parole officers, court personnel, victim advocates, attorneys, volunteers, clergy, medical care practitioners and others regarding individual cases.
•Performs special duties or completes special projects as assigned.
•Receives and responds to citizens’ inquiries, concerns and complaints concerning detention facility activities.
•May be on call 24 hours per day, seven days per week.
•Performs other related job duties as assigned.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
•Requires High School graduation or GED equivalent.
Special Qualifications, Certifications and Licenses:
•Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.
•Must be able to obtain SC Detention Officer Certification within one year.
•Minimum age of 18 required for position.
•May require additional professional or technical certification(s) as deemed necessary by the Sheriff.
•Must meet other requirements as set forth in applicable South Carolina statutes and regulations.
Dorchester County (Sheriff)has the right to revise this job description at any time.
This description does not represent any way a contract of employment.
Position Type and Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position; typical work hours are 12.25-hour shifts. The Detention Center operates 24 hours per day; 7 days a week including Holidays. Employees must be available to work evenings, weekends and holidays during emergencies or as requested. This is a safety sensitive position and employees holding this position have the responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others. This position is subject to random drug.
E.O.E. Dorchester County does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability or military service in employment or the provision of services.
E.O.E. Dorchester County does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability or military service in employment or the provision of services.

Dorchester County, SC is a fast‐growing county in the heart of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Part of the three‐county Charleston metropolitan area, Dorchester County offers a mix of suburban and rural lifestyles with Charleston and North Charleston nearby. The population was 136,555 in the 2010 Census, an increase of 41.6% from the 2000 Census.
Nearby to Dorchester County are the South Carolina beaches (30‐60 minutes), the Santee Cooper lakes (30 minutes), and the Blue Ridge Mountains (3‐4 hours). Dorchester County offers numerous outdoor recreation opportunities, including the terminus of the Edisto River Canoe Trail at Givhans Ferry State Park and the 16,000+ acre Beidler Forest. Minor league baseball, hockey, and soccer teams are in the metropolitan area, and the annual Family Circle Cup tennis tournament is held in adjoining Berkeley County.
Dorchester County operates under a Council Administrator form of government and has 766 full‐time positions. A seven‐member County Council is elected by district and provides policy direction to the County. The County Council appoints the County Administrator, the County Clerk, the County Attorney, and the Delinquent Tax Collector.
The County Administrator is responsible for the administration of all departments under the control of the County Council. The present County administrator has been in the position since 2004 and is assisted by a Deputy County Administrator and a Chief Financial Officer.
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