General Summary

Employees in this job classification oversee the custody, safety and security of inmates in the Kalamazoo County Jail.

Essential Job Functions

• Observe inmates' activities to detect unusual or prohibited behavior, which might be a threat to the security of the facility or to the safety of others.
• Respond quickly to calls for assistance in the jail as directed by a supervisor.
• Prepare accurate and complete written reports and records.
• Accurately count inmates under his/her supervision several times each shift.
• Conduct thorough search of inmates and cells.
• Monitor feeding, recreational activities and inmate visits.
• Supervise inmate workers.
• Ensure that security systems, fire fighting equipment, and other equipment in the facility are in operating condition.
• Monitor the distribution of prescribed medications to inmates.
• Operate computerized equipment such as booking systems and gate controls.
• Accurately complete bond release papers.

Skills

• Moderate to advanced computer skills.
• Ability to complete first aid/CPR certification.
• Knowledge of security procedures and techniques.
• Knowledge of departmental rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
• Ability to maintain composure during stressful situations.
• Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergencies and to multi-task.
• Ability to obtain accurate data, prepare written reports and communicate effectively.

Working Conditions

• Assignments may be any day of the week and any shift.
• Assignments may be performed in an environment that may be uncomfortable and possibly dangerous.
• Assignments involve substantial face-to-face contact with inmates. The employee uses independent judgment in making decisions requiring interpretation and application of departmental guidelines to specific situations.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to meet the physical requirements of the work, which includes the performance of strenuous tasks requiring muscular strength, coordination, and cardiovascular endurance.
• Ability to wear and operate respiratory protection devices.
• Ability to learn and apply self-defense and other procedures for dealing with hostile or violent inmates.

Minimum qualifications

• A minimum of 21 years of age.
• Possess a valid Michigan driver's license.
• Ability to pass a written entrance exam.
• Ability to pass a post-offer medical exam, drug screen, psychological evaluation.
• Willingness to submit to a thorough background investigation designed to assess the applicant's suitability for employment as a corrections officer.

(One of the following)

• Michigan Law Enforcement Commission on Standards certification. (M.C.O.L.E.S)
• Michigan Corrections Officer Training Council (M.C.O.T.C.) certification.
• Associate degree in Corrections or related field.
• Minimum 30 college credit hours with two years experience in corrections, law enforcement or military.

*Only employees with (MCOLES certification) can be considered for a position as a Deputy in our Law Enforcement Division.

Any individual with the following is ineligible for consideration for employment:

A felony conviction; a pending felony or misdemeanor charge; a domestic violence conviction; or an outstanding warrant.

Testing dates are scheduled based on Department needs.

You may submit your resume to:

Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Office
1500 Lamont Ave.
Kalamazoo, Michigan 49048
Attention: Employment Desk