Correctional Officer I

Job Description

Job Description

OVERALL OBJECTIVE OF JOB

This is work in maintaining order, supervision of conduct, and provision of non-professional counseling of inmates in the institution on an assigned shift. An employee in this position is responsible for the prevention of escape, maintaining discipline, and providing advice and guidance in assisting inmates in their adjustment to and participation in the programs offered by the institution. Clerical duties are also required in this position.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB

• Conducts searches on incoming inmates and prepares them for commitment.
• Makes rounds and ensures proper head count.
• Ensures all doors and windows are locked and prison is secure.
• Maintains logbooks and other internal records of inmates’ activities as required by the institution.
• Supervises inmates during bathing, meals, and recreation periods and on work details in and around the prison.
• Searches visitors for contraband upon entering the institution for visits and assists with visitations within the prison.
• Checks incoming mail, clothing, and other items for contraband or other illegal items.
• Observes inmates and their activities for any unusual behaviors or needs, and reports changes in personality and demeanor of inmates.
• Interfaces with inmates to determine their needs or problems.
• Documents and maintains daily log of prison inmate activities and / or incidents.
• Maintains records for commissary and inmates’ accounts.
• Processes inmates in and out of the institution, which includes but is not limited to gathering background information, collecting, and securing the inmates’ personal items, and coordinating the assignment of quarters.
• Responsible for the orderly movement of inmates inside and outside of the institution.
• Performs related work, as designated, i.e., washing clothes, disbursing / recording medications, providing minor first aid to inmates, serving meals, assisting fellow Correctional Officers when needed in all areas of the prison, etc.
• Assists in entering statistical data in computer for database records or typing miscellaneous documents and reports.
• Attends training, meetings, and in-services as required.
• Performs other job-related work as required.
• Transports and guards’ inmates as assigned; controls inmates at all times, using restraint devices when necessary.
• Interacts with inmate population, including individuals that may have mental health issues, be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or that may have a potential for assaultive behavior. Must also interact with other County Offices and the public.
• Conducts warrant checks on inmates via JNET.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Receives frequent to occasional instruction and some daily supervision from the Chief Deputy Warden, and OIC regarding daily work duties.

SUPERVISION GIVEN

Oversees the care, custody, and control of inmates at the Clarion County Jail.

WORKING CONDITIONS

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL CONDITIONS

QUALIFICATIONS

Possess a high school diploma, or the equivalent, plus some training in typing and personal computers. First Aid and CPR helpful.

None required. Experience in corrections, security, investigative or counseling is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED