Rabun County Sheriff’s Department
Detention Officer
A vital role focused on inmate supervision, facility safety, secure operations, and professional service inside the Rabun County detention center.
Position Overview
Help maintain a safe and secure detention environment.
This position is responsible for assisting in the supervision of inmates in the County jail. Detention Officers help enforce rules, conduct regular counts and searches, process inmate entry and release activity, maintain records, assist with transportation and communication, and support the daily operations of the detention center.
This is an important public safety role for someone who can stay alert, communicate clearly, follow established procedures, and work professionally in a structured environment.
Key Focus Areas
- Inmate supervision
- Facility safety and rule enforcement
- Records and reporting
- Searches and security checks
- Communication and coordination
- Transportation and processing support
Core Responsibilities
What a Detention Officer does
Supervision & Security
- Monitor and observe inmates in the detention center
- Enforce rules and maintain order
- Conduct regular head counts
- Search inmate areas and property
- Conduct mail searches
Inmate Support & Movement
- Distribute medication and commissary goods
- Transport inmates to and from facilities, health care providers, and courts
- Assist in serving meals to inmates
- Process inmate entry and exit activity
Records & Communication
- Record regular logs and file incident reports
- Maintain information in GCIC databases and related records
- Research crime information for coworkers and other law enforcement personnel
- Answer phone and radio communications
- Assist in processing fees for cash bonds, bond fees, and background checks
Knowledge & Skills
What this position requires
- Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws
- Knowledge of law enforcement code of ethics and standards
- Knowledge of the criminal justice system and court procedures
- Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs
- Knowledge of self-defense mechanisms and general safety techniques
- Skill in operating job-related equipment such as firearms and restraint equipment
- Skill in preparing clear and precise administrative reports
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Skill in interpersonal relations
The position works under general instruction, with completed work reviewed for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature of final results.
Work Environment
Physical demands and working conditions
Physical Requirements
The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, walking, bending, crouching, or stooping. The employee frequently lifts light and heavy objects, distinguishes between shades of color, and utilizes the sense of smell.
Detention Center Environment
The work is typically performed in the detention center and exposes the employee to noise, contagious or infectious diseases, or irritating chemicals. Protective devices such as masks, goggles, and gloves may be required.
Guidelines for the position include County policies and procedures, Department standard operating procedures, and related federal, state, and local laws.
Qualifications
Minimum qualifications for the position
- Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with completion of specialized training in the field of work, in addition to basic skills typically associated with a high school education
- Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with completion of an apprenticeship or internship, or having had a similar position for one to two years
- Possession of or ability to readily obtain certification by the Georgia Department of Corrections
Supervisory and management responsibility: None.
Serve with professionalism, awareness, and purpose.
The Detention Officer role supports secure daily operations, inmate supervision, and the mission of the Rabun County Sheriff’s Department.