Control Room Operator (Sheriff's Office)

County of Dakota; Hastings (MN); On-site; USD 50,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking dedicated individuals to join their team in a critical role within jail operations. This position involves electronically controlling access to the facility, ensuring safety and security, and providing communication support. Ideal candidates will have strong problem-solving skills, effective communication abilities, and the capacity to work independently in a high-pressure environment. With a commitment to public service and community values, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the safety and well-being of the community while enjoying comprehensive benefits and a supportive work culture.

Benefits

Comprehensive health benefits

Work-life balance

Paid time off starting at four weeks per year

Paid holidays and floating holiday

Pension with employer contribution

Qualifications

• Two years of full-time work experience or equivalent education.
• Ability to communicate effectively and handle stressful situations.

Responsibilities

• Control access to the jail and maintain safety and security.
• Dispatch staff to alarms and provide communication support.
• Monitor security and control inmate movement via CCTV.

Skills

Effective Communication

Problem-Solving

Situational Awareness

Independence

Stress Management

Education

High School Graduation/GED

Job description

POSTING TYPE: Open competitive
DEPARTMENT: Sheriff
HOURS: Full-time
HIRING RANGE: $50,194- $62,742/year (grade105)
SALARY RANGE: $50,194- $78,428/year
LOCATION: Hastings, LEC
UNION: T320JL
CLOSE DATE: 4:30 p.m. on 5/14/2025

* This position is being posted to fill current and future permanent vacancies. Please be sure to include ALL relevant work experience on your application form.

Job Summary

Electronically control all access to, from, and inside the jail via computer terminal while guiding staff, law enforcement, professional visits, and the public within the facility, maintaining jail safety and security according to policies and procedures. Dispatch corrections staff promptly to alarms and emergencies. Provide radio and other communication support for jail operations and contact law enforcement agencies as needed.

Who We Are

Dakota County, Minnesota’s third largest, with over 400,000 residents, strives to provide excellent public service guided by the values of Service, Integrity, People, and Innovation. We are committed to creating an inclusive, equitable work environment reflective of our community, where everyone can be their authentic selves.

Candidates must pass all recruitment and pre-employment requirements listed below. Failure to do so will result in removal from consideration.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Graduation/GED
• Two years of full-time work experience (part-time converted to full years, do not round up)
• OR a combination of POST education and full-time work experience totaling two years

*Pursuant to Dakota County Policy, this position is designated as Safety Sensitive, meaning impairment by drugs, alcohol, or cannabis would threaten safety, as defined in Minnesota Statutes Section 181.950, subdivision 13.

Additional Tasks and Responsibilities

• Represent the Sheriff's Office professionally and positively.
• Build and maintain positive relationships.
• Maintain dress standards and comply with policies and directives.
• Ensure officer safety and situational awareness.
• Provide accurate reports and testimony.
• Monitor security and control inmate and staff movement via monitors and control panels.
• Electronically control jail doors and monitor alarm systems.
• Maintain logs, conduct radio checks, and handle calls from the public and law enforcement.
• Maintain equipment and monitor video systems.

Essential Job Functions

• Accurately observe, remember, and report facts.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Interact respectfully with inmates, coworkers, and the public.
• Apply deductive reasoning to solve problems.
• Work independently and remain self-motivated.
• Handle stressful situations effectively.
• Understand and adhere to regulations and county policies.
• Monitor all inmate and staff activity via CCTV.

Additional Requirements

Visible tattoos must be approved before they are visible at work. Tattoos on the ears, head, face, neck, or hands are generally prohibited unless approved by the Sheriff.

Work Environment

Work is primarily in a secure control room within a 24/7 facility, with occasional inmate contact. Shifts are 8 or 12 hours, including weekends and holidays, with possible on-call, overtime, or shift extensions.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits
• Work-life balance
• Paid time off starting at four weeks per year
• Paid holidays and floating holiday
• Pension with employer contribution

Selection Process

• Online application with supplemental questions
• Qualification scoring
• Interviews for top candidates
• Background and reference checks