Detentions Officer

Primary Responsibility: Under general supervision, performs inmate supervision and detention-related duties within the Gilpin County Detention Facility. This is a non-POST certified position and does not carry independent peace officer authority under Colorado law. The Detentions Officer maintains safety, security, and order within the jail, supports facility operations, and assists POST-certified deputies, as needed.

Supervised by:

• Sergeant
• In the absence of a Sergeant, use the chain of command established by the Gilpin County Sheriff's Office.

Supervises:  N/A

FLSA Status:  Non-exempt

MAIN JOB DUTIES: 

Inmate Supervision & Classification

• Conducts inmate intake, booking, identity verification, searches, photographs, and property handling.
• Classifies inmates and assigns them to appropriate housing in accordance with Colorado Jail Standards and Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office Detentions Policy and Procedure.
• Advises inmates of facility rules, expectations, and grievance procedures.
• Supervises inmate movement, recreation, visitation, meals, commissary distribution, medication pass, programs, and work details.
• Supervise inmate workers inside or outside the facility.

Facility Security & Direct Supervision

• Maintains control, security, and safety within assigned housing units.
• Conducts security and wellness checks at required intervals.
• Prevents disturbances, intervenes in verbal and physical conflicts, and uses de-escalation strategies and physical force when necessary.
• Performs cell searches and area inspections to detect contraband, safety hazards, or policy violations. 

Control Room & Technology Operations

• Monitors security cameras, intercom systems, electronic access controls, and alarm systems.
• Controls all door access, tracks inmate movement, and documents activities through the electronic Jail Management System (JMS).
• Operates body scanners, security screening equipment, and body-worn cameras in compliance with policy.
• Operates 800 and VHF radios to receive and send information to Communications, deputies, and other emergency service agencies in compliance with policy. 

Court & Facility Security

• Provides security for courtrooms and the Justice Center, including responding to panic alarms and disturbances.
• Escorts inmates to and from court, medical appointments, or other designated areas.
• Ensures authorized access to secure areas and maintains perimeter security.

Emergency Response

• Responds to fires, medical emergencies, fights, alarms, evacuations, and critical incidents.
• Provides CPR, AED, and emergency first aid as needed.
• Documents events as required.

Communication & Inmate Interaction

• Communicates effectively and professionally with inmates, staff, visitors, and other agencies.
• Mediates disputes, handles inmate concerns, and provides information regarding legal processes, rights, and facility procedures.
• Documents incidents, grievances, safety concerns, and operational activities in accordance with policy.

Transports

• Conducts safe & secure inmate transports outside the facility to various locations.

Additional Job Duties:

• Performs general facility upkeep and maintains professional standards of uniform, equipment, and work areas.
• Attends required training and continuing education related to detentions, safety, mental health, and emergency response.
• Assists POST-certified deputies when appropriate and within the limits of non-POST authority.
• Provides cross-training and knowledge transfer to staff as needed to support continuity of operations and government services.
• Exercises sound judgment in handling confidential and sensitive information, ensuring appropriate disclosure only to authorized individuals and entities.
• Assists in stabilizing emergent or unforeseen operational situations to ensure continuity of services and effective organizational response.
• Adheres to all County policies, procedures, regulations, and applicable laws.
• Performs other duties and special assignments as assigned. 

LEGAL AUTHORITY (NON-POST CERTIFIED)

• This position does not have statutory peace officer authority under the Colorado Revised Statutes.
• May perform arrest-related procedures only within the Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office Justice Center as part of their duties related to Detentions.
• Cannot independently make field arrests, conduct criminal investigations outside the of the facility, or perform law-enforcement patrol duties

Hours:

• Must be able to work shift schedules, including days, nights, weekends, holidays, and mandatory overtime.
• Subject to on-call or emergency recall as required.