DEPUTY SHERIFF – CORRECTIONS I

DEFINITION

Under direct supervision, works in a training capacity, learning to supervise inmates at the Lake County Correctional Facility and maintain facility security; learns procedures and methods for the care, custody, and confinement of inmates; oversees work details and leisure activities; and performs related duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the entry and first working level in the Deputy Sheriff - Corrections series.  Incumbents work in a learning capacity performing Deputy Sheriff - Corrections duties related to the care, custody, and confinement of inmates at the correctional facility.

This classification is a sworn position under Penal Code 830.1 (c).

Positions in the Deputy Sheriff - Corrections series are flexibly staffed.  Incumbents may advance to the higher classifications after gaining the knowledge, skill, experience, licenses, and certifications which meet the qualifications for and demonstrating the ability to perform the work of the higher-level class.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED 

Receives direct supervision from assigned management staff, depending on areas of work assignments.  Exercises no supervision over staff.  May provide lead direction, work coordination, and training, for inmate crews or others, as assigned.  

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES 

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the scope of duties performed by employees in this class and are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

• Learns to receive, fingerprint, photograph, and book inmates.
• Learns to assign prisoners to cells according to the correctional facility classification plan. 
• Learns requirements and releases prisoners on proper authorization, returning personal property and clothing.
• Learns to respond to emergencies. 
• Learns procedures and performs searches of inmates. 
• Assists with the supervision of inmates in the correctional facility and maintain discipline among inmates. 
• Checks work areas to ensure inmates are working on assigned projects. 
• Sees that facilities, cells, and grounds are kept sanitary. 
• Performs searches of cells and other areas for contraband. 
• Opens and censors incoming mail. 
• Maintains and updates correctional facility records. 
• Responds to inquiries regarding inmate detention and correctional facility policies within constraints of department regulations. 
• Escorts inmates throughout the facility for appointments.
• Collects and secures evidence. 
• Operates a centralized control system controlling access and movement in the facility.   
• Performs related duties as assigned. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Basic knowledge of correctional procedures and inmate control problems.
• State and federal laws and regulations related to jail operations, booking procedures, and custody of inmates. 
• Principles, policies, and procedures related to jail operations, including the booking, custody, and release of inmates; inmate rights and discipline; techniques for inmate control; and emergency response.
• Good public relations techniques.
• First aid methods and techniques.
• Customer service principles and techniques. 
• Written and oral communications skills.
• Proper English spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Computers and software programs (e.g., Microsoft software applications) to conduct research, assess information, and/or prepare documentation.
• Principles and techniques for working with groups and fostering effective team interaction.

Ability to:

• Learn the purposes, methods, and procedures for the care and custody of inmates at the correctional facility.
• Learn to perform a variety of corrections work. 
• Read, understand, and interpret laws and regulations regarding the operation of the correctional facility and the care and custody of inmates. 
• Gather and organize data and information.
• Interview and secure information from people.
• Make independent judgments and adopt quick, effective, and responsible courses of action during emergencies. 
• Think clearly and act calmly in emergency situations.
• Prepare clear and comprehensive reports.
• Meet standards of adequate physical stature, endurance, and agility.
• Learn technical and tactical proficiency in the use and care of firearms, if necessary.
• Work with computerized law enforcement information systems.
• Operate a keyboard and/or typewriter with sufficient skill to perform booking and report preparation assignments and to enter and extract a variety of data and information.
• Effectively, tactfully, and courteously represent the Sheriff’s Office with the public and other law enforcement agencies.
• Regularly work well under pressure, meeting multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Utilize a computer, relevant software applications, and/or other equipment as assigned to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Licensing and Certifications:

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver’s License.  A driver’s license from another state may be accepted at the time of hire if the applicant acknowledges his/her responsibility to acquire a California driver’s license as required by law.

Completion of a Basic Jail Operations Course approved by S.T.C. must be accomplished within six (6) months of initial employment.

Completion of P.C. 832 and weapons training is required within 120 days of initial employment.

Education and Experience:

Equivalent to graduation from high school.

Previous experience working within a correctional system or in a position having substantial public contact is highly desirable.

Martin Rivera