JOB SUMMARY

The Detention Shift Supervisor performs custody related work as well as supervisory and coordinative work related to inmate detention and care within the County Detention Center. Employees in this class supervise a group of Detention Officers on an assigned 12-hour shift within the County Detention Center. Employees make work assignments throughout the day and are responsible for the custody and welfare of inmates. Work includes reviewing quality of the Detention Officers’ work and assuring adherence to standards of detention and care.  Employees at this level are the first level of hearing inmate grievances. Officers also serve as Detention Officers with duties such as inmate intake, observation, care, and release work in accordance with established policies and procedures. Work includes the observation and accompaniment of inmates inside the County Detention Center and related care and recordkeeping requirements. This role also includes the supervision of staff associated with the County Detention Center’s transportation function. Patience and firmness are required in frequent contacts with staff, as well as violent, suicidal, and mentally unstable inmates. Work is performed under the direct supervision of the Detention Center Supervisor and is evaluated through observation and shift reports. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Serves as officer-in-charge during a shift; assigns officers to duty areas and makes frequent inspections to ensure officers are completing their tasks and to ensure the safety of all staff and inmates; assists in planning their work schedule; instructs officers in the performance of their duties; provides clarification to any policies and procedures.
• Conducts inmate counts and maintains records and logs to ensure inmate location accountability; makes and supervises periodic searches of inmate quarters for contraband.
• Performs inmate intake processing; receives inmates by conducting searches; completes required intake forms; photographs and fingerprints; secures personal property; acts as an inmate processor by maintaining inmate information, verifying the completion of necessary forms, assigning appropriate cell location, determining inmate classification, and maintaining inmate count and cell locations.
• Oversees the security and activities of inmates; supervises meals and cleaning of facilities; distributes personal property; monitors inmates’ medical statuses and takes actions when illnesses or injuries are suspected.
• Provides non-confidential inmate information to the public, attorneys, and bond personnel; maintains files on inmates; searches incoming property delivered to inmates; verifies visitors’ acceptance by inmate.
• Transports inmates to court, other detention facilities, medical and mental health treatment appointments, and other necessary trips.
• Returns personal property to individuals; completes forms providing required documentation of release.
• Supervises cleaning and maintenance of jail facilities and fixtures. 
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:   

• Knowledge of local government operations, policies and plans, and modern office practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other similar programs.
• Knowledge of policies and procedures covering inmate security, classification, care, and discipline.
• Knowledge of personnel policies, laws, and regulations and of modern and effective supervisory principles of motivations, communications, leadership, discipline, and performance coaching and evaluation.
• Skill in collaborative conflict resolution.
• Skill in prioritizing and organizing work.
• Skill in verbal and written communication.
• Ability to supervise detention staff including effective training, communications, performance coaching and evaluation, and related activities.
• Ability to make sound decisions concerning inmate discipline.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in routine and emergency situations.
• Ability to work in a hazardous and confining environment.
• Ability to deal tactfully and firmly with inmates, law enforcement personnel, and the general public.
• Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with the supervisors, other employees, law enforcement and court personnel, and the general public.
• Ability to actively listen to inmate conversations and sounds in the facility and exercise judgment in determining potential security problems.
• Ability to meet and deal with employees and the public in an effective and courteous manner.
• Ability to get along with others, and work effectively with the public and co-workers.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including shift work weekends, holidays, and emergencies.
• Ability to multi-task and work within deadlines.
• Ability to deal with confidential and sensitive matters.
• Ability to use computers for data entry, word processing, and accounting purposes.

Education and Experience:

Requires a high school diploma or equivalent and related experience in law enforcement and/or detention, and in the custody and care of inmates, or equivalent combination of education and experience. 

Licenses or Certifications:

• Possession of a valid driver’s license.
• Must meet the minimum standards set by the State of North Carolina for detention facility personnel.

Special Requirements:

Must be able to work flexible schedules, including shift work, weekends, holidays, and emergencies.