AN EXCITING DETENTION OFFICER CAREER OPPORTUNITY IS WAITING FOR YOU!
ON-THE-JOB TRAINING PROVIDED
We are currently seeking a qualified candidate to fill an immediate part-time opening. In addition, this recruitment will establish an eligibility list for future full-time and part-time vacancies.
Whether you're looking for a part-time opportunity now or hoping to be considered for a future position, we encourage you to apply!
- High School Diploma or Equivalent GED; a valid Minnesota Driver's License, and
- Pass a criminal background investigation, and
- Pass a Video Detention Officer Test.
Highlights
- Listed are the shift hours that are bid based on seniority.
- 12-hour shifts: 7 am - 7 pm and 7 pm - 7 am
- 8-hour shifts: 7 am - 3 pm and 3 pm - 11 pm
- Competitive Pay – starting at $25.75 per hour.
- Advanced placement on the pay scale is available for candidates with corrections or detention experience.
- Shift Differential
- Comprehensive Benefits Package
- On-the-job training
- Rotating 3-day weekends
- Uniform and Equipment provided upon completion of Training.
- Annual Uniform Allowance
- And Additional Benefits
Application Deadline:
Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 4:30 p.m.
Detention Officer Video Testing will be held on:
Thursday, November 19, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.
Interview Process:
Initial interviews will be conducted in person. The date and time for the interviews are to be determined. Candidates selected for an interview will receive additional information and scheduling instructions by email. Please monitor your email for updates.
Position Summary
Under the direction of the Jail Sergeant and Jail Administration, the Detention Officer is responsible for maintaining the safety, security, and orderly operation of the County Jail. ...
Position Objective
Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted. You may contact Human Resources at 320-968-5004 or by email at hr@co.benton.mn.us for status updates or any questions you may have.
Duties and Responsibilities
- A. Respond promptly to inmate concerns and medical emergencies by assessing the situation, providing emergency first aid within the scope of training, operating emergency medical equipment, notifying appropriate medical personnel or supervisor, and documenting actions taken in accordance with established policies and procedures.
- A. 1. Complete and document inmate well‑being checks using the Spartan handheld system at least every thirty (30) minutes and every fifteen (15) minutes, or more frequently as required by statute or medical directive, for inmates on suicide watch or with identified medical conditions, including seizures or withdrawal, to ensure inmate safety and compliance with established policies and legal requirements.
- B. Enforce jail rules and regulations, including the disciplining of inmates.
- C. Prepare and update reports and maintain records.
- D. Maintain counts of inmates in assigned areas.
- D. 1. Complete monthly visual audits ...
- E. Search inmates and inspect cells, recreation areas, grounds, work locations, and other activity areas for unauthorized objects or materials.
- F. Operate central control, which includes, but is not limited to, monitoring radio traffic, opening facility doors, monitoring movement within the facility (inmates and staff), answering phone calls, and monitoring inmate phone use.
- G. Facilitate intake and release processing of inmates by completing fingerprinting, conducting warrant verification checks, and performing weekly running of 45s in compliance with established policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
- G. 1. Process book‑and‑release individuals from court and fingerprint applicants.
- H. Responsible for escorting inmates, staff, contractors, vendors, and authorized visitors throughout the secure facility while maintaining safety, security, and accountability.
- H. 1. Escort individual inmates and groups of inmates to work assignments, programs, medical appointments, court appearances, and other authorized activities.
- H. 2. Escort medical personnel and other authorized staff while conducting rounds or providing services within housing units.
- H. 3. Escort vendors, contractors, and other authorized visitors within the secure perimeter, ensuring facility security by preventing the introduction of contraband, maintaining accountability for tools and equipment, and providing for the safety and security of all individuals while inside the facility.
- I. Supervise and instruct inmates on work crew activities and equipment operation.
- J. Serve meals; process and review inmate mail per facility procedures; distribute inmate supplies; perform and/or oversee laundry operations including washing, folding, and bundling; assign and monitor daily inmate cleaning tasks; and complete laundry and cleaning duties in the absence of inmate workers.
- K. Respond to safety and security incidents and other emergency situations, which may require physical restraint and control of resisting and uncooperative inmates.
- L. Provide direct supervision, care, and custody of inmates, including individuals experiencing mental health crises, substance use disorders, behavioral health conditions, or medical emergencies, utilizing crisis intervention, de‑escalation, communication, and behavior management techniques to maintain a safe, secure, and orderly detention environment.
- M. Safely transport inmates and assist in their supervision outside the facility, ensuring compliance with established policies, procedures, and security protocols.
- M. 1. Transport inmates and facilitate in‑person court appearances and virtual (Zoom) court proceedings.
- N. Administer inmate visitation procedures by checking in visitors, conducting warrant checks, and verifying no‑contact orders to ensure compliance with facility rules and court directives.
- O. Complete safety and security checks throughout the facility.
- P. Conduct weekly key checks, intercom checks, and door cycle checks on all facility doors to ensure proper operation and security.
- Q. Complete the pre‑booking medical questionnaire to assess inmates fit for confinement for jail.
- R. Conduct evening medication passes by verifying the right inmate, right medication, right dose, right time, and right route in accordance with provider orders and established procedures; dispense medications and verify inmate consumption.
- R. 1. Accurately document medication administration in the electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR/MAR) system ...
- R. 2. Complete special medication passes as directed by a supervisor or, in the absence of medical staff, in accordance with provider orders and established policies and procedures.
- S. May serve as a Shift Lead, performing responsibilities in the absence of a Sergeant, providing operational oversight and ensuring the safe, secure, and efficient operation of the jail.
- S. 1. Conduct post inspections; review and complete court‑related documentation; coordinate daily detention operations; and respond to incidents, emergencies, and operational issues as they arise.
- S. 2. Process inmate financial transactions, bail documentation, releases, and related records in accordance with established policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
- S. 3. Verify, document, and process medications received at the jail; accurately enter medication information into the electronic medical records system (Detain); obtain and communicate pertinent inmate medical information to contracted medical providers when nursing staff is unavailable; complete required medical communication documentation; and implement medical orders and follow‑up care in accordance with established policies, procedures, and protocols.
- T. May serve as a Field Training Officer (FTO) for newly hired Detention Officers by providing structured on‑the‑job training, mentoring, and coaching.
- T. 1. Provide structured, on‑the‑job training and daily guidance to assigned trainees throughout the field training program, typically lasting approximately eight (8) to twelve (12) weeks, while monitoring progress and adjusting instruction based on demonstrated competency and performance.
- T. 2. Train, mentor, and evaluate newly hired Detention Officers to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to safely and effectively perform assigned duties within the detention facility; complete and maintain required field training documentation; provide constructive feedback and coaching; and evaluate trainee competency in accordance with established policies, procedures, and safety standards.
- U. May serve as a Use of Force Assistant Instructor by assisting with the delivery of training on approved defensive tactics, control techniques, use of force principles, and related safety procedures for Sheriff's Office - Jail personnel.
- U. 1. Complete required instructor training course and assist the primary Use of Force Instructor in providing instruction, demonstrations, practical exercises, and performance evaluations to ensure jail staff understand and appropriately apply approved control techniques and use of force in accordance with applicable laws, policies, and established training standards.
- V. May serve as a member of the Benton County Sheriff’s Office Peer Support Team by providing confidential peer assistance to staff experiencing personal or work‑related stress, crisis, or other challenges.
- V. 1. Participation requires completion of a 40‑hour Peer Support training course and availability to respond to staff support needs on a 24/7, 365‑day basis.
- V. 2. Required to attend additional annual training both within and outside of the Sheriff’s Office to maintain proficiency and support capabilities.
- Additional Functions
- A. Attend training as needed.
- B. Perform other duties as assigned or apparent.
Qualifications
- High School diploma or equivalent GED; OR
- Equivalent combination of education/training/experience.
- Valid MN Driver’s License; and
- Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to drive in the state of Minnesota; and
- Must complete and pass pre‑employment testing; and
- Must successfully complete a background check and driver's license verification; and
- Must complete and pass a psychological exam, physical exam, drug, and alcohol screening; and
- Must obtain and maintain certifications and licensures.
- H. 1. Ability to obtain and maintain, upon hire:
- H. 1. 1. BCA Single Certification: Training and Certifications are determined by the BCA Schedule.
- H. 2. Ability to obtain and maintain, within six (6) months of hire:
- H. 2. 1. PREA, Use of Force, and Portals Training: Complete initial training and certification and maintain required annual training and certifications.
- H. 2. 2. Critical Incident Training (CIT) and Certification.
- H. 2. 3. Spark Medical Training and Certification, including successful completion of all required annual in‑person refresher training.
- H. 3. Ability to obtain and maintain, within one (1) year of hire:
- H. 3. 1. First Aid/CPR/AED Certification: Training, Proficiency Testing, and Certification are maintained every two (2) years.
- H. 4. Ability to obtain and maintain certifications and training as required or assigned:
- H. 4. 1. Taser Training: Training & Qualification/Testing and Certification are maintained annually. (optional training)
- H. 4. 2. Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Spray Certification: Training, Testing, and Certification are maintained annually. (optional training)
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Basic knowledge of law enforcement terminology and procedures.
- Basic knowledge of the policies and procedures of the Benton County Jail.
- Knowledge of jail operations, security practices, and procedures.
- Ability to effectively use a computer and various software programs.
- Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule forms.
- Ability to handle various assignments and problems under moderate supervision within standard operating procedures.
- Knowledge of crisis intervention, de‑escalation techniques, behavioral management, and trauma‑informed correctional practices. Ability to effectively communicate with and manage individuals experiencing mental health crises, substance use disorders, emotional distress, or other behavioral health conditions while maintaining professionalism, sound judgment, safety, and security.
- Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in critical situations through the effective use of de‑escalation and crisis intervention techniques.
- Knowledge of and ability to demonstrate or possess the ability to safely and effectively learn to utilize use‑of‑force techniques and restraint equipment, including the restraint chair, WRAP, handcuffs, restraint belt, and shackles, in accordance with established policies, procedures, and training.
- Ability to maintain effective public relations and deal with hostile or aggressive individuals.
- Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
- Ability to use independent judgment and react quickly in emergency situations.
- Ability to effectively multitask, prioritize competing demands, and make sound decisions in a fast‑paced jail environment.
- Ability to perform standard procedures and tasks where basic analytical ability is required. Detailed guidelines and procedures are generally used to make decisions or determine actions.
- Ability to maintain effective working relationships with regular contact with the department and periodic contacts with other departments, outside agencies, and the public to relay basic information or facts.
- Knowledge of and ability to demonstrate or possess the ability to learn to accurately interpret medical orders, administer medications in accordance with provider orders and established procedures, and obtain vital signs using appropriate medical equipment.
- Skill in assessing emergency medical situations and administering First Aid, CPR, and AED in accordance with established policies, procedures, and training.
- Ability to travel within your daily work assignment.
- Ability to travel within Minnesota, including extended overnight stays.
- Ability to work extended, evening, and weekend hours as needed.
- Must comply with organizational and departmental policies.
- Performs the physical/mental demands of the work environment requirements for this position.
- Attendance during regularly scheduled work hours and outside regular hours, as necessary.
- Effective and respectful communication and interactions with other employees, supervisors, individuals from different organizations, and citizen customers.
- Must comply with data practices policies and standards related to private data. Access to private data is limited strictly to what is necessary to perform assigned job duties. While accessing such data, the employee must take reasonable measures to prevent unauthorized access by individuals without a work‑related need. Once the work‑related purpose has been met, private data must be properly secured and stored in accordance with county policies and Minnesota Statutes.
Physical Demands & Working Conditions
- Work is performed in the Benton County Jail and other facilities involved with the transport of inmates.
- Headaches, eyestrain, and other related occupational hazards reflect the most common potential for injury when working in the office.
- Normal hearing and correctable vision are required.
- Duties can include prolonged periods of standing or walking.
- This position may involve direct exposure to illicit drugs, drug paraphernalia, and chemical odors associated with illegal substances during the performance of assigned duties.
- There is a moderate likelihood that workers may be subject to coming in contact with communicable diseases, such as tuberculosis (TB), hepatitis, bloodborne pathogens, airborne pathogens, and other potential infectious materials. Protective materials and training are provided to protect employees from these hazards.
- Must possess physical strength and the ability to restrain and control inmates, and the ability to physically defend oneself.
- This position requires the ability to lift or assist in lifting injured individuals.
- This position is subject to violence, threats of violence, and verbal abuse from exposure to hostile and angry inmates.
- This position is exposed to mental effort and stress, and is exposed to inmates with mental illness.
- This position may require travel to other facilities, meetings, training, etc.
- This position frequently performs work under moderate attention to detail and deadlines.
Hours of Work
- Must be able to work rotating shifts, including days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime, to support a 24‑hour‑a‑day, 7‑day‑a‑week operation.
- Subject to jail schedule needs.
Equipment Utilized
- Office equipment, computer hardware and software, department vehicles, transport vehicles, law enforcement equipment and tools, security equipment, taser, radio, medical care equipment, and phones.
This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" employment relationship. The County Board, County Administrator, or appropriate Elected Official retains the discretion to add duties or change the duties of this position at any time.
Benton County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.