Detention Officer



Job Details

Detention Officer
Employer

Maricopa County

Salary

$19.43 - $28.28 Hourly

Location

Phoenix

Job Type

Classified/Full-Time

Job Number

500DO010418

Department

Sheriff

Opening Date

01/04/2018

Closing Date

Continuous

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Bargaining Unit

N/A

Header for the job posting - 5Oct

Testing

Position Overview_Updated- Maricopa

Under general supervision is responsible for the custody, control, care, and welfare of inmates at County Jail facilities.  Consequence of error for this position can be substantial and may cause monetary loss to both the County and MCSO if supervision of jail facilities does not meet policy and legal mandates.

Position Qualifications_Updated- Maricopa

Minimum education and/or experience:
High school diploma or GED and must be eighteen (18) years of age; must be a U.S. Citizen or hold a valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card.

Specialized training, certifications, and/or other special requirements:
Applicants must possess, or have the ability to obtain by the time of hire, a valid Arizona driver's license. Prior to hiring, the Sheriff's Office requires that all applicants complete the following: background investigation; polygraph exam; medical exam with attestation of physical readiness and psychological exam.  Training with the exception of Arizona driver's license to be provided on-the-job:

  • FEMA NIMS – IS100 AND 700
  • OSHA training
  • ADP payroll training
  • PREA training
Additionally, post hire participation in a 12-week paid detention academy is required and which includes successfully demonstrating physical readiness by completing a series of assessments with the requisite results in order to graduate the academy and remain employed. A seven battery assessment became effective November 1, 2015.
 
Minimum physical readiness standards:
Assessment 1: Maximum Push-Ups
What is measured by the Assessment: Upper Body Muscular Endurance
Standard for Academy Graduation (Minimum Requirement): Eleven (11)
Applicable Job Task:  B, F, J, K, L, M, V

Assessment 2: Maximum Sit-Ups (Under One Minute)
What is measured by the Assessment: Abdominal Muscular Endurance
Standard for Academy Graduation (Minimum Requirement): Sixteen (16)
Applicable Job Task:  C, E, F, J, K, L

Assessment 3: 1.5 Mile Run
What is measured by the Assessment: Aerobic Power
Standard for Academy Graduation (Minimum Requirement): 21:48 Minutes
Applicable Job Task: A, H, I, L, M, Z

Assessment 4: 300 Meter Run
What is measured by the Assessment: Anaerobic Power
Standard for Academy Graduation (Minimum Requirement): 1:37 Minutes (97 Seconds)
Applicable Job Task: H, K, L, M

Assessment 5: One (1) Repetition Bench Press
What is measured by the Assessment: Upper Body Absolute Strength
Standard for Academy Graduation (Minimum Requirement):  90 Pounds or 53% of Body Weight, whichever is less.
Applicable Job Task: B, F, J, K, L

Assessment 6: Illinois Agility Run (consists of sprints through and around cones)
What is measured by the Assessment: Agility and Coordination
Standard for Academy Graduation (Minimum Requirement): 22.6 Seconds
Applicable Job Task: H, J, K, L
 
Assessment 7: Vertical Jump
What is measured by the Assessment: Explosive Leg Strength
Standard for Academy Graduation (Minimum Requirement): Eleven (11) inches (Fourteen (14) inches if measured with VERTEC)
Applicable Job Task: A, H, Z   


Knowledge, skills, and abilities:
Ability to read, learn, understand, apply and follow rules, regulations, instructions, jail practices and procedures; ability to direct the activities of prisoners by speaking clearly and concisely in an authoritative manner; ability to maintain accurate records and make routine verbal and written reports using concise and clear communication; ability to distinguish between simultaneously sounding audio alarms for various devices, such as radio duress activations, PA systems, phone ringing, and perimeter alarm activations; ability to distinguish color and shapes to identify items for inventory purposes, knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
 
Preferred education and/or experience:
Three (3) years' work experience, prior law enforcement experience, prior military experience preferred.
 
Preferred training, certifications and/or other special requirements:
Currently possess, or have the ability to obtain, a commercial driver's license and/or weapons certification equivalent to standards set by Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training (AZPOST).
 
Working conditions:
Job requires the ability to work any shift due to detention facilities operating 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.  Job requires ability to: perform sprints, jumping and vaulting tasks; perform lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling; move quickly around objects and obstacles in pursuit situations; and pursue, extract and use force in both short intense effort and sustained effort situations.  Actual situations may require efforts beyond the following:
  •  Perform lifting and carrying that may include lifting heavy and awkward objects weighing 50 lbs. or more; carrying heavy and awkward equipment and objects 10 to 60 ft.; and carrying equipment weighing 20 to 50 lbs. up and down stairs Perform dragging movements that may include extracting victims weighing up to 175 lbs. and dragging victims, objects or suspects weighing up to 175 lbs., 20 to 30 ft.
  • Perform pushing and pulling that may include pushing heavy objects or people weighing up to 200 lbs., 10 to 25 ft.; pulling heavy objects or people weighing up to 150 lbs., 10 to 25 ft.; and pulling self over 6 ft. obstacle.
  • Perform range of motion activities that may include bending to reach for objects; bending and twisting in use of force situations; crouching during movement of 10 to 15 ft.; and climbing ladders and fire escapes. Use force that may include self-defense situations for 45 to 60 seconds; control holds in self-defense situations for 30 to 60 seconds; strikes using hands, elbows, feet, and knees; use of intermediate impact weapons; and forced entry by pushing and pulling.
  • Perform foot pursuits that may include running sprints of 100 feet or more; running for sustained periods, usually 300 feet but up to 5 minutes; running up and down stairs, usually 2 flights but may be up to 4 flights; run over uneven terrain; and dodge around obstacles.

Essential Job Tasks_Updated- Maricopa

  1. Conduct security walks and head counts which involves standing, stair climbing, and walking for long periods of time.
  2. Perform facility and inmate cell searches which involve stooping, kneeling, crouching, lying down and crawling under bunks, lifting and climbing to reach all areas of the cell and facility including climbing ladders/stairs to reach overhead sky lights, attic crawl spaces, rooftops, etc.
  3. Perform searches of inmates and visitors which includes touching and feeling clothing to detect weapons and contraband; also includes the ability to squat, stoop, stretch, bend to floor level to search pant legs, socks, and shoes.
  4. Perform frisk and strip searches of inmates which includes visually observing unclothed inmates to detect weapons and contraband.
  5. Conduct continual visual surveillance of inmates and various areas of detention facilities which involves prolonged sitting, twisting, and bending to view various monitors.
  6. Provide inmate services such as recreation (spending several hours exposed to outdoor elements), serving meals, visitation, and clothing exchanges which involves lifting food trays, beverage containers, canteen bags, and bundles of laundry weighing up to 80 lbs. and requires bending, stooping, and kneeling.
  7. Quickly select and correctly operate appropriate buttons, touch screen control monitors, switches, and knobs used to control doors, sliders, and communication systems while maintaining emotional control under extreme stress.
  8. Pursue fleeing inmates on foot which involves running, climbing, jumping, bending, stooping, and crawling over a prolonged distance.
  9. Monitor and control all activities regarding inmate movement which could include escorting/walking inmates for long distances to various locations within or outside of the jail facility.
  10. Use body force, ranging from mild to extreme, to gain entrance through barriers to gain entrance through barriers to seize or rescue inmates.
  11. Subdue or restrain resisting inmates using hands and feet while employing defensive tactics or approved non-lethal weapons which may include kneeling, bending, or stooping as well as lifting the inmate following restraint.
  12. Respond quickly to emergency situations that may include physically restraining combative inmates, lifting and carrying inmates during a medical crisis; escorting inmates up and down stairs to evacuate areas while wearing emergency equipment; or putting on air pack for a fire emergency to enter smoke-filled areas appropriately by stooping or crawling, select and open fire extinguishers/hoses and physically removing inmates from danger, which may include dragging unconscious victims (averaging 180 pounds).
  13. Perform basic first aid procedures and cardiopulmonary resuscitation which involves kneeling and bending.
  14. Gather information for investigations by interviewing and obtaining the statements of the victims, witnesses, suspects, and confidential informants.
  15. Appropriately utilize technology to prepare electronic Operations Journal Entries (log book), or when necessary hand write information to produce legible reports, using standard grammar, punctuation, symbols, and simple mathematical functions.
  16. Inspect and inventory security equipment through testing which includes pressing buttons, turning switches, and lifting/turning equipment.
  17. Operate telephones, electronic equipment, fingerprint equipment, ADP time recorders/clocks, cameras, video recording devices, scanners, copiers, and fax machines which involve turning electronic knobs and typing for computer/data entry.
  18. Communicate effectively over radio channels while initiating and responding to radio communications, often under adverse conditions.
  19. Communicate verbally and effectively, in areas with the potential of high noise levels, by listening and providing information, direction and commands to inmates and/or the general public to manage interpersonal conflict and maintain order.
  20. Exercise independent judgment within legal guidelines which involves reading and comprehending rules, regulations, policies and procedures for purpose of insuring appropriate officer behavior/response involving the general public.
  21. Subdue resisting inmates using approved non-lethal weapons, i.e., pepper spray (chemical discharge containing Oleo resin capsicum), and conducted electrical weapon (short duration exposure containing 50,000 volts and up to .004 amps).
  22. Manually unlock and open 8' X 12' metal gates to allow vehicles to enter the jail grounds.
  23. Ability to work any shift due to detention facilities operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with regular days off generally being any two consecutive days during the week.
  24. Perform perimeter checks in a vehicle and/or on foot.
  25. Provide courtroom security and document judicial information, i.e. bond information, sentence, and release information.
  26. Inventory inmate belongings such as clothing and personal property for transport to other facilities which involves standing for long periods of time, lifting, and climbing a ladder while carrying semi-heavy bags of clothing.
  27. Ensure legal documentation pertinent to an arrest/release is complete and provided to the appropriate departments/divisions/units, i.e. court, court desk, facility which involves proofreading, standing for long periods of time and communication with outside agencies including police and probation departments.
  28. Use a computerized cash accounting system to maintain an accurate account   of inmates' funds; may be required to open or close an account which involves sitting for extended periods of time and having the ability to use the computer and other electronic equipment.
  29. Be present at work site to perform assigned tasks at the times and dates scheduled/assigned by the supervisor.

Selection Procedure_Updated- Maricopa

The Maricopa County Human Resources Department reserves the right to admit to the selection process only those candidates who are considered the most highly qualified. The hiring authority will consider candidates from a list provided by the Human Resources Department. Candidates referred for consideration by the department will be required to successfully complete a comprehensive background check, polygraph examination, psychological screening and medical screening with attestation of physical readiness.  Upon successful completion of these requirements, all hired candidates are required to participate in and successfully complete a 12-week Detention Academy, which includes Physical Readiness Assessments, to continue employment as a Detention Officer.
 
Physical Readiness Assessments consist of sit-ups, push-ups, a 1.5 mile walk/run, 300 meter run, bench press, vertical jump and an agility run. The assessments are designed to ensure that individuals can successfully perform the physical demands of the Detention Officer position. If hired to participate in the Detention Academy, in order to continue employment, probationary academy candidates must meet Physical Readiness Standards prior to graduation from the 12-week Detention Academy, which are:
  • Sit-ups – 16 in under one minute
  • Push-ups – 11
  • 1.5 mile run/walk – in under 21 minutes 48 seconds
  • 300 meter run - in under 1 minute 37 seconds
  • Bench press - one repetition of 90 pounds or 53% of body weight, whichever lesser
  • Agility run - in under 22.6 seconds
  • Vertical jump - 11 inches (or 14 inches if measured with VERTEC)
If you have any questions about your health or your ability to participate in the assessments, it is your responsibility to consult with your health care provider prior to application.

Footer for the Job Posting - 5oct

Maricopa County offers a Total Compensation Package that includes competitive salaries and a comprehensive, affordable benefits package.  High value is placed on employee well-being and meeting the needs of our employees and their families. Our benefits package is comprised of traditional benefits like medical, prescription, dental, vision, and other health benefits. Employees are supported by various wellness programs including classes, coaching, and fitness center opportunities.  Our generous benefit options are some of the best in Arizona and just one of the unique advantages of working for Maricopa County.  Below is a representative listing of typical benefits received by most full-time employees.

Holidays and Leave
Maricopa County observes ten paid holidays per year. Most County employees accrue vacation (starting at three weeks per year for full-time employees) and sick leave (starting at one hour for every 30 hours worked for all employees). Employees also receive paid leave for other needs such as jury duty, civic duty, and bereavement. 

Medical, Prescription, Behavioral Health, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
We understand how important health, oral hygiene and vision are to maintaining a good quality of life. We also know our employees want to have the freedom to choose plans to best meet their needs.  Eligible employees may choose from four medical plan options, an HMO, PPO, and two HDHP (High Deductible Health Plans) with a health savings account. When employees enroll in medical coverage, they are automatically enrolled in prescription and behavioral health coverage as well. There are three dental plans from which to choose, two PPO plans and a pre-paid dental plan that functions like an HMO.  As is the case with medical, the plans range in cost, flexibility, and network of providers.  The vision plan provides employees and their covered dependents access to routine vision services and materials, including an annual eye exam.   For those who wish to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for eligible healthcare and dependent care expenses, the flexible spending accounts are suitable for that need.

Life and Disability Insurance
Because life sometimes takes unexpected turns, the County offers life insurance coverage to help employees and their loved ones in the event of death.  Basic life and basic accidental death & dismemberment insurance equivalent to one times an employee's annual base salary is provided at no cost, with the option for employees to purchase additional coverage including spouse and child life insurance. Disability insurance is available to replace a portion of an employee's salary should they experience a short-term illness or injury.

Retirement
Eligible employees are covered by one of several State-sponsored retirement pension plans, including the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) and the Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS).  Additionally, there's the option to contribute to a 457b deferred compensation retirement savings plan that provides employees with a variety of investment opportunities.  For those employees who retire from the County and from their retirement system, and have accrued 1,000 or more hours of sick leave, the County makes a $10,000 contribution to a Post-Employment Health Plan set up on their behalf to be used for payment of eligible out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.

Group Legal Plan
Maricopa County offers employees group discounts to purchase coverage for legal services such as adoptions, family matters, wills and trusts.

Wellness and Ergonomics
Maricopa County's Wellness Works program promotes health and wellness for employees and their families by focusing on physical activity, good nutrition, self-care and stress management. Maricopa County offers eligible employees a wellness incentive for completing a health assessment, being tobacco-free, and integrating health and well-being activities into their lives. By meeting a set of criteria, employees and their families can get reimbursed for participating in a Weight Watchers Program. On-site fitness facilities and fitness classes are provided to employees at various locations around the County. Employees and their families also have the opportunity to receive a discounted fitness club membership at LA Fitness. Employees have access to smoking cessation programs and health-related classes on various topics including nutrition, exercise and stress management. Employees located downtown benefit from an onsite pharmacy and clinic. Every fall, flu vaccines are offered to employees at various County locations.  The Ergonomics team at Maricopa County works to assist departments and employees in preventing and alleviating pain and discomfort associated with the work environment. They provide guidance on the proper approach to workstation set-up, as well as ergonomic trainings and individual ergonomic evaluations.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
When employees and their families are faced with personal issues, confidential, short-term counseling and referral services are available to them at no cost.  

Employee Discounts
Maricopa County subscribes to a service association which provides employees with volume discounts for sporting events, entertainment, and many other services.

Commute Options Program (COP)
Maricopa County provides free Valley Metro passes for the bus and light rail systems; a vanpool subsidy is also provided. Employees can decrease stress, decrease wear and tear on their vehicle and help the environment all at the same time.

New Employee Orientation (NEO) NEO provides new employees with information about Maricopa County such as: history, organizational structure, Merit Rules, County policies and procedures, County pay system and benefits and employee programs.

Rewarding Ideas/Employee Suggestions
Employees are provided with incentives to generate ideas for improvements that result in cost reduction through increased efficiency and productivity, improved processes and procedures and elimination of duplication and waste. Our employees' ideas could put money in their pocket!!

Tuition Reimbursement
To promote Maricopa County's long term employee retention objectives, our employees are eligible to receive financial assistance to continue their education, help make them more productive, enhance their job performance, and equip them to pursue new opportunities within County government.

To learn more about the County's generous benefits, visit the Maricopa County Employee Benefits and Wellness website.
 

01
Prior to hire, background investigations are conducted on candidates for positions. All information contained in your online application MUST be accurate, including but not limited to criminal history, education details, and employment details. Incomplete or inaccurate information contained in your online application may delay the background investigation process, or result in your removal from employment consideration. Your resume is NOT a substitute for the information requested in the online application.
  • By checking this box, I confirm that I have reviewed all information provided in my online application and believe the information to be complete and accurate to the best of my knowledge.
02
Please identify your highest level of education COMPLETED. IMPORTANT: LIST ALL EDUCATION IN THE APPLICABLE SECTION OF THE APPLICATION. Please indicate type of diploma/degree, college major/minor, and name of institution. If you did not complete a degree program, include your high school diploma/GED information, as well as the number of college semester/quarter hours completed. NOTE: Failure to provide complete information will likely result in the disqualification of your application.
  • Doctorate
  • Master's degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Associate's degree
  • Technical school (non-Associate's degree)
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Less than a High School diploma or GED certificate
03
Do you have high school diploma or GED? NOTE: If yes, this information must be listed under the Education portion of the application.
  • Yes
  • No
04
This position requires that applicants be citizens of the United States of America or hold a valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card. Are you a U.S. Citizen or do you hold a valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card?
  • Yes
  • No
05
This position requires that applicants be at least eighteen (18) years of age at the time of application. Are you at least eighteen (18) years of age on the day you submit this application?
  • Yes
  • No
06
Do you have experience working in any of the listed environments? Check all that apply.
  • Government law enforcement agency
  • Military
  • None of the above
07
Please identify your years' work experience in a law enforcement and/or military environment.
  • 5 or more years
  • 4 or more years but less than 5 years
  • 3 or more years but less than 4 years
  • 2 or more years but less than 3 years
  • 1 or more years but less than 2 years
  • Less than 1 year
  • No experience
08
Do you currently possess, or have the ability to obtain, weapons certification equivalent to the standards set forth by Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training (AZPOST)?
  • Yes
  • No
09
Please clearly describe/state why you believe you would be a successful Detention Officer.
10
Do you currently possess, or have the ability to obtain by the time of hire, a valid Arizona driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No
11
Do you possess, or have the ability to obtain, an Arizona Commercial Driver's License with required endorsements?
  • Currently possess
  • Can obtain by time of hire
  • Do not have but can obtain in the future
  • Do not have and cannot obtain
12
Are you a CURRENT Maricopa County Sheriff's Office employee?
  • Yes
  • No
13
This position requires your availability in Phoenix, Arizona to participate in a variety of selection processes. Each step in the process is generally conducted on different days and is contingent on successful completion of the previous step in the recruitment process. For applicants currently residing outside of the Phoenix metropolitan area, travel arrangements and costs are the sole responsibility of the applicant. BY ENTERING YOUR NAME BELOW, YOU ARE ACKNOWLEDGING THAT YOU HAVE RECEIVED THIS INFORMATION.

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Maricopa County

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