Correctional Officer / Corporal

Job Overview

The City of Santa Fe Springs seeks dedicated Correctional Officers and Corporals to maintain safety, security, and order within the Athens-Clarke County Correctional Institution, Food Service Center, or Diversion Center. This role involves supervising inmates, ensuring facility security, coordinating inmate movements, and performing inspections to maintain cleanliness and safety standards.

Compensation and Incentives

Eligible candidates will receive a one-time hiring bonus totaling $3,000, disbursed in three $1,000 increments after successful completion of 3, 6, and 12 months of employment respectively. This incentive is in addition to base salary and contingent on continued funding and managerial approval.

Reporting Structure

Employees report to Correctional Sergeants, Food Services Sergeants, Correctional Lieutenants, or the Superintendent depending on assignment.

Work Schedule

• Rotating twelve-hour shifts, either from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
• Weekends and possibly religious holidays are mandatory work days.
• Reliability and cooperative work attitude are essential.
• The role is designated as an emergency position requiring attendance during all emergency situations such as inclement weather or facility evacuations.

Educational and Experience Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Certification through Georgia Basic Correctional Officer Training (BCOT) must be obtained within 12 months of hire.
• Possession of a valid driver's license is mandatory.
• Preference given to candidates with one year of prior correctional officer experience.

Additional Qualifications for Corporal Position

• Minimum two years as a BCOT certified Correctional Officer.
• Must be eligible for Appointment of Notary Public based on assignment area.
• Possession of P.O.S.T. Certification in Corrections and good standing is required.
• Associate degree in Criminal Justice or related field preferred.

Primary Responsibilities

• Constantly monitor inmate behavior and secure facility areas against contraband.
• Organize inmate activities and regulate inmate movements within the facility.
• Transport inmates both internally and externally as necessary.
• Conduct shakedowns, inmate headcounts, and ensure all access points remain locked and secure on a scheduled basis.
• Oversee communication channels such as phone, radio, and intercom.
• Supervise inmates in isolation or medical observation.
• Fill in for absent colleagues, including assuming shift supervisor duties when necessary.
• Participate on disciplinary committees and handle inmate intake and release processing.

Specific Duties by Assignment

Food Service Division: Includes directing unloading and inspection of deliveries, inventory management, contraband prevention, organizing inmate labor, and substituting in leadership roles as needed.

Diversion Center: Responsibilities cover monitoring inmate activities and movements, processing inmates in and out, transportation, facility shakedowns, managing communication systems, disciplinary duties, handling financial receipts and deposits, recordkeeping, assisting auditors, and various clerical tasks.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Understanding of departmental policies, correctional procedures, and applicable laws related to inmate incarceration.
• Knowledge of defensive tactics, first aid, CPR, and proper handling of arrests and detainments.
• Effective interpersonal communication skills and ability to interact with individuals with mental health challenges.
• Capability to respond promptly and appropriately in emergency or stressful situations.
• Skill in maintaining detailed records, reports, and adhering to governmental regulations.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Competence in routine mathematical calculations and organizational skills for prioritizing daily tasks.

Physical and Other Requirements

• Must be capable of operating equipment such as two-way radios, firearms, handcuffs, and vehicles safely.
• Physical demands include climbing, stooping, lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally, and enduring medium-level physical work.
• Ability to handle potentially violent physical confrontations and restrain individuals when necessary.
• Required visual abilities include good depth perception, peripheral vision, motion detection, and color discrimination.
• Must be able to communicate via telephone and radios clearly.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The employer is committed to providing equal employment opportunities without discrimination based on race, color, or other protected characteristics.