Deputy Recruit

Hampton Police Department; Hampton (VA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Hampton Sheriff's Office in Virginia is seeking a full‑time correctional officer to maintain safety and security for inmates, staff, and visitors. You will supervise inmate activities, conduct rounds, and monitor facilities while applying de‑escalation techniques and adhering to DCJS standards.

The role requires strong judgment, professional communication, and the ability to respond effectively to emergencies.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED or equivalent is required.
• Must complete Virginia DCJS training and certification requirements.
• Must have a valid Virginia driver's license and clean driving record.
• Background checks, medical evaluations, and drug testing are required.
• Firearms qualification and CPR/first aid certifications are required.

Responsibilities

• Maintain safety, security, and order within correctional facilities.
• Supervise inmate activities, movement, recreation, and daily operations.
• Conduct routine security inspections, inmate searches, and facility rounds.
• Monitor inmate behavior and report safety, medical, or security concerns.
• Respond to emergencies and security incidents using de‑escalation techniques.
• Maintain security logs, incident reports, and inmate records.
• Monitor cameras, alarms, and communication equipment.
• Ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and agency policies.

Skills

Safety awareness

Crisis de‑escalation

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

The purpose of this class is to maintain the safety, security, and control of inmates, staff, visitors, and facilities operated by the Hampton Sheriff's Office. The incumbent supervises inmate activities, conducts security inspections, monitors facility operations, enforces applicable laws and regulations, and responds to emergencies to maintain a safe and secure correctional environment.

The incumbent performs duties under the direct supervision of a Sergeant and is accountable for the use of delegated authority. Pursuant to § 15.2-1603 of the Code of Virginia, the incumbent is appointed at-will and serves at the pleasure of the Sheriff. This position is full-time and non-exempt.

The incumbent must meet applicable requirements under § 53.1-29 of the Code of Virginia, Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) standards, and Hampton Sheriff's Office policies concerning training, firearms qualification, and the authorized use of firearms.

In this role, you will help maintain a safe and secure correctional environment while ensuring the safety and well‑being of inmates, employees, and visitors. This position requires sound judgment, professionalism, strong communication skills, and the ability to respond effectively to challenging situations.

Typical Tasks:

• Maintain safety, security, and order within correctional facilities.
• Supervise inmate activities, movement, recreation, and daily operations.
• Conduct routine security inspections, inmate searches, and facility rounds.
• Monitor inmate behavior and report safety, medical, or security concerns.
• Respond to emergencies, disturbances, and security incidents.
• Utilize approved de‑escalation and crisis intervention techniques.
• Maintain accurate security logs, incident reports, and inmate records.
• Monitor security cameras, alarms, and communication equipment.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and agency policies.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Must successfully complete required Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) training and certification requirements.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Virginia driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Must successfully complete required background investigations, medical evaluations, and drug testing.
• Must meet applicable firearms qualification and certification requirements.
• Must maintain required first aid and CPR qualifications.

Additional Requirements:

The incumbent must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, court orders, correctional standards, and Hampton Sheriff's Office policies and procedures.

The position requires shift work and may involve nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, and emergency call‑back assignments.

The incumbent must complete required annual medical evaluations and physical agility assessments in accordance with agency policy.

Join the City of Hampton team! As a proud V3 (Virginia Values Veterans) employer and a designated Military Spouse‑Friendly Employer, we are committed to supporting veterans and military spouses. We offer a welcoming and inclusive workplace, recognizing the unique skills and experiences that military families bring. Come work for Hampton, a vibrant waterfront community celebrating and embracing 400 years of history and innovation, creating an even more dynamic future! We are located in the center of the Hampton Roads region and offer lots of waterfront fun, rich and diverse history, and a vibrant restaurant scene. Hampton offers excellent benefits, career and professional development, tuition reimbursement, and other benefits.