Forensic Officer I

Introduction

Join a team committed to core values of Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence. The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) is dedicated to fostering healthy communities and delivering outstanding care to improve the lives of Oklahomans.

About Us

The Oklahoma Forensic Center (OFC) in Vinita, OK is a secure, inpatient forensic facility operating around the clock every day of the year. The 268-bed facility offers jail competency services for the State of Oklahoma, serving consumers found incompetent for adjudication or adjudicated Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity.

Position Overview

The Security Department at OFC is recruiting Forensic Officers to provide safety and security within this inpatient behavioral health setting. Responsibilities include inspecting buildings and grounds to eliminate fire hazards, enforcing laws, rules, and regulations, and protecting the facility against threats including terrorism. Officers patrol assigned areas to detect and resolve fire risks, assist staff and consumers, direct traffic, monitor security surveillance, conduct unit walkthroughs, aid in the safe movement of consumers within the facility, transport consumers to appointments—potentially offsite—and respond promptly to medical emergencies or other incidents.

Employment Details

• Employment type: Full-time
• Open application: From July 2, 2026, until positions are filled
• Hourly pay: $16.60 for Level I officers, with shift differentials when applicable
• Shift timings: 6:30am–3:00pm, 2:30pm–11:00pm, and 11:00pm–7:00am
• Non-exempt status under FLSA
• Work location: Oklahoma Forensic Center, Security Department
• Multiple vacancies available

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements

• No prior experience or education required for Level I
• Must pass an OSBI background check
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel for job-related duties
• Physical exam required upon conditional offer, including ability to occasionally lift/carry 60 pounds and push/pull up to 30 pounds

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package supporting employees and dependents
• Generous state-paid allowance for insurance premiums
• Variety of health insurance plans without pre-existing condition exclusions
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Employee assistance and wellness programs
• 11 paid holidays annually
• 15 days each of vacation and sick leave during the first year
• Retirement savings plan with employer match
• Longevity bonuses based on years of service
• Student loan repayment programs
• Training opportunities to meet Continuing Education Unit requirements

Additional Conditions and Equal Opportunity

Applicants for safety-sensitive roles must pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening. Employment will require 24/7 coverage; schedules and locations may vary according to operational needs, including potential weekend and overtime work. Reasonable accommodations are offered for applicants with disabilities. The State of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.