JOB SUMMARY:

Performs various duties in law enforcement including patrolling, investigating crimes, securing courtrooms during proceedings, maintaining security over offenders, and assuring all laws of the county and state are carried out in an efficient and effective manner. Deputy Sheriffs assist in emergency situations and must maintain physical ability to effect a forcible arrest or deal with physical, confrontational or combative situations. Deputy Sheriffs perform work in many situations that can be highly dangerous, stressful, and unpredictable. Deputy Sheriffs testify in court as necessary.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Applicants for sworn positions will be required to pass a Physical Agility Test before being hired and annually thereafter. 

The course consists of a series of nine interspersed individual tasks, arranged in a continuous format that may be viewed as being essential (physical) job tasks for law enforcement training:

Running, jumping (low hurdle), climbing stairs, Low crawling, Jumping (broad-type), Climbing a fence (chain-link/four feet), Climbing through a window, Moving/dragging a weight (150 lbs.), Changing direction on the run.

Regular and predictable attendance is required.

When Assigned to Patrol Division:

Take appropriate law enforcement action as the situation dictates. Patrols assigned districts to assure all laws are enforced by checking homes and business for any signs of criminal activity such as broken windows and unlocked doors; arrests any suspects found in the commission of crimes; fills out arrest reports and transports the suspect to the Jail or to mental hospitals on court order.

Answers any calls from the public requesting assistance in burglaries, domestic violence, or any other situation needing the response from law enforcement authorities; writes incident reports on all calls answered indicating the nature of call and any findings at the scene; attends public meetings to maintain order; serves warrants and subpoenas upon court order. 

Assists the solicitor and district attorney with case preparation by gathering evidence, assuring the chain of evidence is kept, and testifying in court as necessary.

Responds to motor vehicle accidents in designated areas or assists in other areas as needed; assists EMT's, firefighters, and other emergency personnel; performs first aid/CPR when necessary; completes wreck reports by asking questions of involved parties and any witnesses, gathering all pertinent information and calling wreckers as necessary; provides emotional support to victims at the scene; directs traffic as necessary to prevent further accidents and clean up accident scene; reopens the road when clear. 

Maintains traffic safety by stopping unsafe motorists, drunk drivers and speeding vehicles by the use of radar and other detection devices; issues citations or arrests drivers and impounds vehicles as needed; reports any malfunctioning signals or damaged and missing signs.

Helps motorists with mechanical problems or calling wreckers when necessary; gives directions to motorists; removes debris from the roadways; escorts funeral processions, parades, and provides direction during sports events as necessary; directs traffic at school crossings.

Inspects all vehicles used for road safety by checking tire pressure and depth, oil, fuel, and reporting any unusual occurrences to the maintenance personnel and the next shift. 

May be called in from off-duty time when necessary.

Testifies in court as necessary.

Performs other related duties as required.

When Assigned to Traffic Unit/DUI Task Force:

Take appropriate law enforcement action as the situation dictates. Investigates major traffic accidents to determine if charges are to be filed and to investigate any mitigating circumstances; enforces all other traffic ordinances in the county; assists other patrol officers as necessary. 

Uses radar and other speed detection devices to apprehend speeders and violators of traffic laws.

Investigates hit-and-run accidents; may be called in from off-duty time when necessary.

Testifies in court as necessary.

May be called in from off-duty time when necessary.

Performs other related duties as required.

When Assigned to Court Services Division:

Take appropriate law enforcement action as the situation dictates. Provide security and order during all proceedings in State, Magistrate, Superior, or Juvenile Court; guards’ prisoners and evidence during proceedings; may transport prisoners to and from court during proceedings. 

Completes all paperwork necessary to have prisoners transported to and from other states; assures all prisoners arrive safely at their destination.

Maintain safety and security of the facility by operating the control room and control board. Monitor secure areas of the facility with video systems and cameras. Document inmate’s entrance and exit to holding cells (sign in and out).

Receives, sorts, distributes, and serves various legal papers pertaining to court orders including divorce papers, lawsuits, fieri-facias, appearance subpoenas, and subpoena duces tecum, eviction orders, termination of parental custody, contempt orders and citations; services bond forfeitures and foreclosures.

Conducts Sheriff's sales on confiscated and non-claimed items; composes legal advertise­ments for publication in local newspapers; drafts bills of sale and distributes items to the purchaser; keeps records of all money and items distributed.

Testifies in court as necessary.

May be called in from off-duty time when necessary.

Performs other related duties as required.

When assigned to the Jail Division: 

Take appropriate law enforcement action as the situation dictates. Processes paperwork for the admittance or release of inmates or detainees, conducts searches for contraband, ensures proper handling of evidence, supervises the security and conduct of inmates, and testifies in court.

Provides orientation to new inmates or detainees which include visitation, medical information, court dates, bond information, and other program and activities. 

Resolves disputes between inmates, completes applicable forms and written documentation, and enforces facility rules and regulations. 

Escorts inmates or detainees in or outside the facility for special programs, medical appointments, and court appearances. 

Patrols assigned areas for evidence of forbidden activities, infraction of rules, and conducts inspections of security devices and equipment for functionality.

Screens and directs visitors.

Testifies in court as necessary.

May be called in from off-duty time when necessary.

Performs other related duties as required.

When assigned to the Warrant Unit:

Take appropriate law enforcement action as the situation dictates. Researches information received on wanted persons from family members, acquaintances, and employers;

Apprehends and arrests offenders; transports offenders to the jail. 

Provides sworn testimony in court proceedings. 

Provides assistance to other divisions and units as required. 

Testifies in court as necessary.

May be called in from off-duty time when necessary.

Performs other related duties as directed.

When assigned to the ADVANCE Unit:

Take appropriate law enforcement action as the situation dictates. Instruct the 5th grade core-curriculum at elementary schools in a class-room environment facilitating core lessons on effects of drugs, building self-esteem, resistance strategies, internet safety, cyber-bullying, gangs, drug awareness, personal safety and violence prevention strategies.

Prepare, organize, and facilitate presentations for various youth related activities, including the annual ADVANCE Summer Camp, Water Safety Programs, and additional community outreach youth programs.

Attend Parent-Teacher Association meetings; present information; discuss issues at schools related to ADVANCE program and events.

Engage in proactive police activities with the public; provide guidance and information to the public on issues including safety and the ADVANCE community outreach programs. 

Testifies in court as necessary.

May be called in from off-duty time when necessary.

Performs other related duties as required.

When assigned to the Lake Patrol Unit:

Take appropriate law enforcement action as the situation dictates. Lake Patrol officers will insure the safety of boat operators, enforce the Georgia Safe Boating Act and protect property along the waterways of Hall County. Lake Patrol Officers will enforce State laws, County ordinances, and strive to keep Hall County waterways safe. Officers assigned to Lake Patrol should have operational knowledge of boats, navigational knowledge of Lake Lanier as well as knowledge of boating and boater safety laws.

Conduct Boating Safety Classes.

Attends meetings pertaining to lake related activities, such as Event security, operations planning and emergency/incident water responses.

Works closely with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, U. S. Army Corp of Engineers U. S. Coast Guard (auxiliary), and other State and federal agencies.

Inspects and maintains boats and equipment assigned to the Lake Patrol Unit.

Daily changes in the Lake level and weather, as well as the seasonal variations in the level of boating activity will directly affect the difficulty of the work.

The work will typically involve the operation of a boat for long periods of time and may require great physical exertion when assisting boaters. 

Officers assigned to Lake Patrol will be required to work the vast majority of weekends and holidays during the summer or other times of peak boating traffic on Lake Lanier.

During boat maintenance, lifting of heavy parts and/or equipment in excess of 50lbs may be required.

Compile monthly report.

May be called in from off-duty time when necessary.

Performs other related duties as required.

When assigned to the K-9 Unit:

K-9 Officers paired with dogs must work them in a variety of scenarios, such as searching for explosives, chemicals and other illegal substances. They are also responsible for finding and rescuing individuals that are missing, along with tracking and apprehending fugitives.

Officers paired with dogs must train them extensively and work and work with them in a variety of scenarios. Handlers must make sure their dogs are obedient and follow commands both on and off of the leash, and that they are capable of performing a building search, as well as a search for lost and missing persons and felons. Handlers are also responsible for making sure their dogs are well taken care of. They must clean the kennel, along with ensuring the dog is taken for annual vet visits and any follow up visits.

MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT USED:

Firearms Intoximeter Police Radio

Magnetometer Motor Vehicle OC Pepper Spray 

Personal Computer Speed Detection Equipment Accident Investigation

Fingerprint Kit Expandable Baton Emergency Equipment

Taser Alco-sensor Audio/Video Equipment

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

Education and Experience:

High School Diploma or G.E.D.

No experience required.

Licenses and Certifications:

Georgia POST Basic Law Enforcement Certification required.

Valid Driver's License and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Must be able to successfully complete agency annual Physical Ability Assessment. 

Knowledge of all pertinent federal, state, and county laws pertaining to law enforcement.

Knowledge of investigation procedures and techniques.

Knowledge of Sheriff's Department rules and regulations.

Knowledge of radar detector devices and their use.

Knowledge of first aid and CPR.

Ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively to determine the proper course of action. 

Ability to cope with situations tactfully, firmly, courteously, and with respect for the rights of others.

Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations.

Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Ability to interpret established rules, regulations, policies and procedures. 

Ability to maintain good standing as relates to departmental firearm qualification policy.

ADA Minimum Qualifications:

Physical Ability: Essential Functions continuously require the ability to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing); move oneself in a variety of environments by walking; bend body downward and forward by bending spine and legs, twisting at the waist, hips or knees; ascend and descend ladders, stairs, and ramps; position onself by crouching or kneeling; maintain body equilibrium to prevent failing when walking, standing, or navigating narrow, slippery or erratically moving surfaces; repetitively use hands/arms/legs; grasp items; and move/transport items up to 25lbs. Incumbents constantly must think analytically; handle stress and emotion, concentrate on tasks, remember names and other details; examine and observe details; make decisions, and adjust to change. Additionally, essential functions continuously require incumbents to be on call and work irregular hours (nights, weekends, holidays); attend work related meetings and trainings; direct others; handle confidential information; maintain stamina during the work day; meet deadlines; operate equipment; and stay organized.

Essential functions frequently require the ability to push or pull items; and move/transport items between 26lbs and 75lbs. Additionally, essential functions frequently require incumbents to use math/calculations and use a keyboard or type. 

Essential functions occasionally require the ability to move oneself by crawling on hands and knees; reach overhead; and move transport items over 75lbs. 

Sensory Requirements: Essential Functions require the ability to use effective verbal and written communication; use of hand/eye coordination and fine manipulation to use tools and equipment; visually discern differences in color.

Environmental Factors:  Essential functions are continuously performed with exposure to adverse environmental conditions, including inclement weather; extreme hot or cold temperatures; humidity and moisture; dry environments; possible bodily injury from hazards including biological, chemical, sharp objects/tools, heavy machinery, traffic; wet or slippery floors or surfaces and excessive noise. Incumbents will be required to work alone or with others continuously. 

Essential functions are frequently performed with exposure dirt/mud, fumes, gases, odors, dust, grease, oil, and mud; risk of bodily injury from moving mechanical parts, exposure to electrical and radiation hazards; extreme noise; and wet, slippery floors and surfaces. 

Essential functions are occasionally exposed to extreme heat or cold while working indoors; risk of bodily injury from falling from high heights/high heights; constricted spaces; hot temperature devices including burners and flame torches; and vibration.

Incumbents must operate vehicles, work around equipment and machinery and be able to walk on uneven ground. 

This class specification should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specifica­tion.