Jail - Corrections Officer

Spokane County; Washington; On-site; USD 82,960 - 123,642; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Retirement contributions

Vacation time

Job summary

Spokane County is seeking a Correctional Officer to supervise inmates in a Minimum and/or Maximum Correctional Facility. The role includes maintaining security, conducting security checks, and ensuring the safety and well-being of inmates.

Candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED, pass background checks, and demonstrate strong communication and supervisory skills. The position offers a competitive salary of $82,960 – $123,642 and includes benefits such as healthcare and retirement plans.

Qualifications

• Prior work experience is preferred.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Applicants must pass a criminal background check.

Responsibilities

• Monitor inmate behavior and maintain safety.
• Conduct security checks and manage inmate transport.
• Prepare and document necessary reports.

Skills

Knowledge of basic supervision

Report writing techniques

Strong communication skills

De-escalation techniques

Ability to handle firearms safely

Education

High School graduate or GED certificate

Job description

Job Summary

The role involves supervising inmates in a Minimum and/or Maximum Correctional Facility under the supervision of a Sergeant. It requires 24-hour, 7‑day operations, including day/night shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed, to maintain security and the safety, discipline, and well‑being of inmates.

Job Description

• Receive and examine referrals to the Juvenile Court for potential petitions or information under RCW chapters 13.32A, 13.34, or 13.40.070.
• Perform custody duties, including patting, strip‑searching inmates, monitoring work assignments, and inspecting inmate quarters to detect contraband.
• Conduct urinalysis and/or breath analysis tests, counts, and security checks.
• Assist medical staff with inmate care and first aid as required.
• Prepare and transport inmates to court, medical/dental appointments, hospital and agency transport, and serve warrants, subpoenas, writs, and other legal papers.
• Oversee food service, routine cleaning, and personal hygiene of inmates.
• Assist in fingerprinting and photographing individuals as needed.
• Testify in court or hearings when required.
• Follow temporary release, re‑entry, and booking procedures, managing time clocks, unlocking doors, and handling personal belongings.
• Answer inmate questions regarding rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Maintain custody and control by enforcing facility rules and maintaining safety and discipline.
• Supervise resident living areas, meals, visits, and outings in the community.
• Check court orders for release/detention of inmates.
• Maintain and write routine records and reports, and report significant behavior changes or incidents.
• Perform any other related duties as required.

Education and Experience Requirements

• High School graduate or GED certificate.
• Prior work experience is preferred.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Applicants selected must successfully pass a criminal background check that includes a polygraph examination, a psychological evaluation, and a medical evaluation.

Special Requirements

• Pass a Physical Ability Test (PAT) consisting of fifteen sit‑ups, twelve push‑ups, and twenty‑five squat thrusts.
• Complete the ten‑week Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission Corrections Officers Academy within the first six months after appointment.
• Must be a permanent U.S. resident, able to read and write English, and free of physical, emotional, or mental conditions that could adversely affect performance.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of basic supervision of people under adverse circumstances and dealing with diverse backgrounds.
• Knowledge of report writing techniques and basic computer/data‑entry skills.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to interpret and apply complex statutes, court regulations, and rules.
• Skilled in de‑escalation techniques, emergency response, and use of force.
• Ability to maintain records, reports, and intervene in crisis or violent situations.
• Ability to handle firearms safely, qualify in defensive tactics, hostage survival, CPR, and first aid.
• Ability to work independently, exercise judgment, and build effective relationships with staff, inmates, community agencies, and the public.

Behavioral Standards

All employees are expected to contribute to a safe work environment, demonstrate County values—Respect, Communication, Accountability, Integrity, and Innovation—and maintain professional behavior in interactions.

Working Conditions

Work is primarily indoors with moderate noise and temperature. Shift patterns include day/night, weekends, holidays, and overtime as required.

Total Compensation

Annual salary: $82,960 – $123,642. Compensation includes base pay, retirement contributions, and benefits such as medical, dental, life insurance, long‑term disability, and leave.

Benefits

Benefits are provided by Spokane County, including healthcare, vacation time, retirement and pension plans, and other employer‑paid benefits.