CORPORAL-JUVENILE SERVICE CENTER

Knox County Government; Tennessee; On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Knox County Government seeks a frontline supervisor to maintain safety, order, and rehabilitative structure within a juvenile facility, fostering youth development for staff and detainees.

Responsibilities include supervising staff, briefing on shift priorities, responding to incidents, conducting searches for contraband, and coordinating with the Sergeant on training and disciplinary actions, all within a secure and compliant environment.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of one year related experience as a correctional officer or in law enforcement.
• Must be at least 20 years of age and have a valid TN driver license.
• CPR/First Aid certification required.
• Pass a background check; willingness to work varying hours, weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Supervises, directs and evaluates assigned staff, counseling and performing reviews.
• Brief incoming staff on shift priorities and incidents.
• Serve as point of contact for staff questions during shifts.
• Resolve conflicts and monitor task performance and policy compliance.
• Record attendance and respond to incidents using non-violent interventions.
• Assist during lockdowns, evacuations, and emergencies; provide first aid when needed.
• Collaborate with the Sergeant on training, evaluations, and disciplinary actions.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to legal/ethical standards.

Skills

Excellent verbal and written skills

Ability to work cooperatively in a 팀

Strong organizational and time mgmt

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

CPR/First Aid certification

Job description

The purpose of this classification is to serve as the frontline supervisor responsible for maintaining safety, order, and rehabilitative structure within the juvenile facility, while fostering an environment of youth development and personal growth for staff and detainees.

Essential Functions

• Supervises, directs and evaluates assigned staff, processing concerns and problems, directing work, counseling, disciplining and completing team member performance reviews.
• Brief incoming staff on shift priorities, incidents, and special instructions.
• Serve as a point of contact for staff questions or concerns during the shift.
• Help resolve interpersonal conflicts or clarify role expectations.
• Record attendance in official logs or digital systems.
• Respond to incidents involving out-of-control detainees using non-violent intervention.
• Perform searches for contraband and ensure secure facility operation.
• Observe and report on the physical and emotional well-being of detainees.
• Assign officers to specific posts (housing units, intake, transport, recreation, etc.).
• Adjust staffing based on absences, emergencies, or changing facility needs.
• Ensure adequate coverage for high-risk areas and critical times (e.g., shift changes, court transport).
• Monitor line staff throughout the shift to ensure tasks are being carried out effectively and consistently and following established policies and procedures.
• Provide guidance and hands-on support when staff require assistance, clarification, or resources to complete their daily assignments.
• Reassign duties during incidents or lockdowns to maintain control and safety.
• Collaborate with the Sergeant to plan training, evaluations, or disciplinary actions.
• Participate in emergency drills or update contingency plans. Administer basic first aid or request medical assistance when necessary.
• Report on maintenance issues.
• Assist during lockdowns, evacuations, or other critical incidents.
• Complete duties as a first responder when addressing a PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act) incident.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to legal and ethical standards when handling sensitive information.
• Participate in training and professional development to maintain certifications and stay current with best practices.

Additional Job Functions

• Respond to and report immediately if called upon by local, regional or central office supervisors, as part of a coordinated emergency response by the Knox County Mayor’s Office
• Ensure regular, punctual attendance during scheduled work hours
• Perform other duties as required

Minimum Training & Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of one (1) year related experience as a correctional officer or in law enforcement.
• Must be at least 20 years of age.
• Must possess and maintain valid TN driver license.
• Must possess and maintain CPR/First Aid certification Ability to work varying hours, shifts and schedules, including weekends and holidays.
• Must be able to work overtime hours as necessary.
• Must be able to successfully pass a background check. Completed annually after hire.
• Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered for employment into the position

Specialized Knowledge

• N/A
• Ability to work in a position of moderate complexity
• Basic understanding of PCs, tablets, smartphones and other electronic devices
• Basic understanding of Microsoft Office suite of products
• Ability to focus and demonstrate attention to detail
• Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a team
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills
• Strong interpersonal skills

Physical Requirements

• This position requires the ability to engage in frequent, moderate physical activity and occasional, very heavy activity.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to traverse the facility at any given time in the event of an emergency.
• Inherent risk of bodily harm/injury or exposure to biological hazards

Knox County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Knox County Government may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.