Demo

Cellblock Processing Tech

DC Department of Human Resources
Washington, DC Full Time
POSTED ON 8/30/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 9/28/2026
There is only one city in the country that can say it is the Nation’s Capital – Washington, D.C. Given that distinction, The Metropolitan Police Department is the premiere law enforcement organization in the city. We receive over 22 million visitors a year, have almost 700,000 residents, and 21,000 private business. The Department consists of more than 4,200 members: approximately 3,550 sworn members and over 650 civilian employees. We are one of the most diverse and highly trained departments in the country. We have the honor of safeguarding and protecting not only our nation’s residents, but also people from all over the world.

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) offers an attractive benefits package. The benefits package includes competitive compensation, health insurance, prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability and life insurance, as well a strong retirement benefit and savings options. Employees are also eligible for our employer contributed 401a plan after one year of employment. Additional perks such as discounts on wireless carriers, gym memberships, amusement park tickets and much more! Additional information can be found at: DCHR Benefits

This position is located in the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), Executive Office of the Chief of Police (EOCOP), Office of the Patrol Operations Chief (OPOC), Youth and Family Engagement Division (YFED). The Cellblock Processing Technician is responsible for the handling and safety of arrestees. This position involves performing regular cell checks, handling arrest documentation, and upholding security within the cellblock area. By maintaining high standards of service characterized by integrity and compassion, the technician contributes significantly to the safety and well-being of the District of Columbia.

The Incumbent Will Be Responsible For The Following

  • Conducting a cell check at the beginning of the shift to confirm that the prisoner listed on the cell sheet is in the correct cell; conducting security checks of unoccupied cells for weapons and contraband; reporting found property and conditions to the supervisor; and recording check-ins in the appropriate log.
  • Conducting cell checks at least every thirty minutes to determine the current status of prisoners in the Cell Block; entering occupied cells safely and securely according to procedures; awakening prisoners to determine their condition; ensuring their presence; and recording cell check-ins in the appropriate log.
  • Conducting special cell checks at least every ten minutes to determine the status of prisoners with potential suicide risks or special needs; determining their condition; notifying the supervisor of suspicious or special circumstances; recording the check-ins in the appropriate log; and assisting in conducting a daily inspection of the entire facility.
  • Providing prisoners food and drink according to the prescribed schedule.
  • Examining the transport vehicle at the beginning of each shift and as required; ensuring the vehicle is properly equipped, untampered, and free of weapons or contraband; checking for damage or defects; and completing the Daily Vehicle Inspection and Activity Report.
  • Notifying the proper authority of the presence of juveniles as appropriate.
  • Verifying the identity of law enforcement officers from other agencies.
  • Ensuring prisoners are processed within one hour of arrival to avoid a “lively” decision.
  • Receiving and reviewing PD 163 arrest packages for accuracy and completeness; verifying required WALES/NCIC printouts; entering information in CJIS; verifying arrest numbers and resolving discrepancies; returning incomplete paperwork and ceasing processing as required.
  • Ensuring injured prisoners are accompanied by an Arrestee Sick/Injury Report.
  • Conducting a visual scan of arrestees for injuries, medical conditions, or possibly mental illness and returning those with medical concerns to the transport officer.
  • Reviewing WALES/NCIC printouts for outstanding warrants; taking custody of arrestees; instructing them to empty pockets; securing excessive money or harmful items; completing property reports; and conducting full field searches for weapons and contraband.
  • Recording prisoner physical descriptions; photographing prisoners as required; checking clothing against arrest reports; ensuring correct PD ID numbers; entering information in CJIS; and amending records as necessary following AFIS results.
  • Providing Station Clerk Officers with arrest packages; operating the Live-Scan fingerprint system; entering arrestee information; taking fingerprints; securing thumbprints; forwarding paperwork to AFIS; attaching wristbands; assigning prisoners to cells; and recording cell numbers and court information in CJIS/WALES.
  • Resolving discrepancies between PD 163 information and fingerprint search results; notifying arresting units; recording officer notifications; and amending PD 163 forms as required.
  • Preparing van sheets or lock-up lists for prisoners being transported; retrieving prisoners; verifying PD ID numbers; flex-cuffing prisoners; providing attire; informing prisoners of procedures; and escorting them to the transport vehicle.
  • Securing prisoners in the transport vehicle; accommodating special needs safely; assisting with transport to court; inspecting vehicles; maintaining order and security; submitting documentation; searching vehicles before reuse; and processing found property or contraband.
  • Processing prisoners being released on Citation Release or Elect to Forfeit; escorting eligible prisoners; and verifying identity prior to release.
  • Retrieving, verifying, and issuing prisoner property; and obtaining arrestee signatures on property logs.
  • Recognizing signs of dangerous or violent persons or situations that pose threats; and immediately reporting conditions.
  • Subduing unruly or combative prisoners using minimum force; preparing incident reports; providing first aid including CPR and AED use; and documenting events.
  • Being summoned to testify in court concerning Cellblock incidents.
  • Maintaining Cellblock security by periodically checking that all doors, gates, and protective devices are locked.
  • Responding to inquiries about prisoners from family members, law enforcement officials, and attorneys.
  • Assisting in booking prisoners; acquiring laboratory numbers; logging check-in times; conducting tag and WALES checks; logging information in the PSS book; assisting walk-in citizens/visitors; issuing accident reports and temporary parking permits; answering telephones; escorting visitors; processing fines; issuing receipts; and performing other related tasks.
  • Periodically attending training to obtain certification, refresher training, and new training as required.
  • Performing work area checks for unsafe conditions and taking steps to correct them.
  • Performing other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Qualifications, Education and Work Experience

Knowledge of arrestee processing procedures, e.g., custody, juveniles, injured individuals, property, searching, etc.

Knowledge in applying physical restraint to subdue combative persons.

Ability to communicate information verbally and in written reports and to provide official testimony in a court of law.

Ability to operate photography equipment and use of a computerized fingerprint system.

Knowledge and understanding of human behavior.

Ability to work effectively with persons of diverse backgrounds and ethnicity.

Education

High School diploma or equivalent is required.

Work Experience

Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the CS-06 grade level, or its non-District equivalent, gained from the public or private sector. Specialized experience includes understanding and applying arrestee processing procedures, use of force, ink and card fingerprints, lively decision, and various verification processes; operating photography equipment and the use of a computerized fingerprint system; and the ability to communicate information verbally and in writing.

Licensures, Certifications And Other Requirements

The incumbent must possess and maintain a valid U.S. driver’s license.

Work Environment

The employee works in a security controlled, closed, isolated environment and may be exposed to violent, hostile, derelict persons that may have contagious diseases. Contact with certain persons may require the employee to wear gloves and mask and use of lice spray.

Other Significant Factors

Promotion Potential:

Promotion Potential to CS-1802-08.

Collective Bargaining Unit

This is a union position and is covered under the National Association of Government Employees (NAGE) bargaining unit. You may be required to pay an agency fee through direct payroll deductions.

Position Designation

The Metropolitan Police Department is a 24-hour, 7 days a week operation. This position is considered “essential” per DPM Chapter 12. An essential employee is always required to report to or remain at work during a declared emergency.

Position Suitability

This position is deemed asSafety Sensitivepursuant to Chapter 4 of the D.C. Personnel Regulations, in addition to the general suitability screening and criminal background check (pre-employment and periodic), individuals may be subject to the following checks and tests:

  • Traffic record check (as applicable);
  • Pre-employment drug and alcohol test (as applicable);
  • Consumer credit check (as applicable);
  • Reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol test;
  • Random drug and alcohol test;
  • Return to duty or follow-up drug and alcohol test; and
  • Post-accident or incident drug and alcohol test.

Due to the sensitive nature of work performed within the Metropolitan Police Department, all selected candidates must undergo and successfully complete and enhanced background investigation, including criminal history and credit checks, as a condition of employment.

Residency Preference

Applicants claiming “Residency Preference” will be required to maintain residency in the District of Columbia for a minimum of seven (7) years. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

The District of Columbia Government does not discriminate or retaliate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender identity and expression, national origin, family responsibilities, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, homeless status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, participation in a legally protected activity, parental status, matriculation, personal appearance, credit information, status as a victim or family member of a victim of domestic violence, sexual offense, or stalking, military service, or other non-merit factor.

Click here to review additional information Employee Disclosure & Information for Applicants

Salary.com Estimation for Cellblock Processing Tech in Washington, DC
$47,172 to $66,426
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