Deputy Warden - Custody (Jail Systems)

POSITION SUMMARY:

Directs and oversees, through subordinate supervisors, the custody and security operations of the jail; Custody (Responsible for the care and control of the entire inmate population at the jail); Security (Responsible for the security of inmates, employees, contracted staff, volunteers, professional visitors and civilians at the jail); Booking/Records (Including inmate commitments, releases, transfers, property and mail.)

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

Essential Functions

The duties and responsibilities of this position include, but are not necessarily limited to:

• Develop, review, revise, implement, disseminate, and interpret jail policies, procedures, post orders, plans, etc. in conformance with BCJS Standard Operating Procedures, PA DOC, collective bargaining agreements and all applicable state and federal laws concerning conditions of incarceration, inmate programs and services.
• Respond to staff grievances/complaints and is involved with union management relationship issues. Conduct formal and informal employee disciplinary reviews. Oversee/guide/direct departmental internal investigations into allegations of misconduct by inmates and/or employees and refer matters for disciplinary sanction and/or criminal prosecution. Also direct and guide responses to incidents of an emergency nature at the jail.
• Ensure all departmental reports, correspondence, documentation, and records/files are completed, processed and maintained correctly and in a timely manner, in accordance with applicable policies and procedures. Effectively compile and analyze jail operational statistics and oversee the preparation of reports for official records.
• Represent the jail at meetings, conferences, training and community relations functions or other events. Serve as liaison to outside agencies, testifies and presents evidence in civil and criminal proceedings related to daily operations, and performs other administrative functions.
• Conduct final interviews of applicants for departmental vacancies and oversees the supervision of all departmental staff through consistent and frequent communication and direction.
• Provide consultation, information and/or other assistance to the Warden and jail staff. May be required to assume responsibility for the management of the entire jail in conjunction with the other Deputy Wardens, in the absence of the Warden.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology, Psychology, or a related field, from an accredited college or university with a minimum of four years correctional supervisory experience, and ten years’ experience in the field of corrections.
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
• First Aid, CPR, Taser, and Oleoresin Capsicum Application Techniques certified.
• Annual firearms qualification.
• Must possess valid PA Driver’s License.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to meet all employment criteria established by the Berks County Jail System, which may include job interview, urine drug screen, physical/health assessment, criminal background/credit check, aptitude testing, psychological assessment, and interview by a psychologist.
• Knowledge of handling/operating all security, safety, maintenance, and other equipment relevant to the position, including but not limited to weapons, restraints, keys, radios, telephones, computers, copiers, self-contained breathing apparatus, etc.
• Working knowledge, skill, and ability to make instantaneous sound decisions and judgments in a management capacity and react to violent and life-threatening situations within the scope of Berks County Jail System Policy.
• Ability to conduct in depth investigations and handle culpability of those involved.
• Working knowledge and ability to receive, analyze, and respond to complaints from inmates, correctional officers, and custody/training staff.
• Ability to identify symptoms of stress-related job performance deficiencies in others and take appropriate action.
• Ability to handle stress.
• Physical presence in the facility is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Ability to frequently lift and carry files and documents weighing up to and including twenty (20) pounds. Ability to frequently pull and open grill gates and unit doors (up to 30 pounds). Ability to frequently reach overhead at a full arms-length. Ability to traverse stairs up to four stories and climb ladders as required. Ability to walk at least one mile Ability to stand and/or sit for extended periods of time up to two (2) hours at a time. Ability to lift/carry or assist another to lift/carry in excess of 100 pounds (occasionally). Ability to ambulate frequently to all departments and units of the jail. Ability to engage in physical exertion at any given moment in response to an emergency situation or to control or subdue a resisting inmate and supervise and manage such actions. Stamina to avoid health related issues and the ability to deal with stress on a daily basis. Ability to participate in a random drug-testing program. Vision correctable to 20/20 and hearing abilities that are natural or corrected to the normal range of hearing. May not be affected by color blindness to any degree which would prevent him/her from effectively performing job duties Able to work extended shift(s) during an emergency situation.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

Requires working within the confines of a secure facility. Requires working in loud, small, and communal workspaces. Requires working in an environment where personal safety may be of concern. Requires working in an environment where there is the possibility of foul odors. Requires working in an environment where cameras are present and utilized. Position may require working consecutive long hours with 24 hours a day/7 day’s week availability. Requires dealing with inmates (who have criminal backgrounds and behavioral/mental health issues) and who may become violent or unstable and/or are in a high-risk communicable disease category (AIDS, tuberculosis, hepatitis, etc.). Requires the ability to remain calm and provide sound, clear minded direction during tense situations.

This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant/employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position and may be changed where appropriate.