Court Security Officer (LS)

The Court Security Officer is primarily responsible for the security of a courtroom or courthouse. It is the officer's responsibility to assist in the orderly operation of the premises and to ensure the safety of the staff and users of the court. The officer provides general assistance to the judicial officer by ensuring that business in the courtroom flows peacefully and orderly. Work is performed under the supervision of management.

The ideal candidate will bring integrity, professionalism, and a focus on security and safety in the courthouse. The ability to interact with a wide range of individuals is essential. Experience working in a security/ law enforcement role and/ or experience in deescalating situations is preferred.

This is a full-time, limited-service opening based in Chelsea, Vermont; this is not a remote/ hybrid role.

The Court Security Officer is a non-exempt Judicial Branch position equivalent to pay grade 17; as of July 12, 2026, the step 1 rate for pay grade 17 will be $20.27 per hour. As of July 26, 2026, the Court Security Officer will change to a pay grade 19 position and the step 1 rate will be $22.51. The limited-service term will end 6/30/2029.

The State of Vermont’s total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation.

Benefits

• 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Work/Life balance: 12 vacation days earned per year, 12 sick leave days earned per year, 5 personal days earned per year, 14 paid holidays each year
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low-cost group life insurance
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Minimum Qualifications

High School Graduation or GED and 2 years in a responsible position.

Summary of Duties

• Performs security check of the facility, opens the courtroom and checks lights, heat, courtroom equipment and forms required and posts the daily schedule of all courts.
• Inspects cellblock and sally port every morning to ensure that no contraband has been left overnight, turns on all lights.
• Provides security for the judge, staff and persons within the courtroom.
• Supervises security arrangements, evacuation plans and takes charge in emergency situations.
• Checks in persons scheduled for court, insures all persons have the proper paperwork, directs the persons due in court to the proper courtroom.
• Provides information on court schedules and proceedings to interested parties and ensures all parties are present in court prior to the entrance of the judge.
• Announces the opening of court, administers oaths to witnesses, enforces proper courtroom decorum and supervises seating arrangements.
• Takes temporary custody of prisoners and releases them to an officer of the appropriate law enforcement agency.
• Notifies Sheriff's office of a prisoner transport and maintains security of the individual until relieved.
• Responsible for the security and coordination of the jury, while in court, deliberating and if sequestered.
• Serves papers as directed by the judge or court clerks.
• Court officers may be assigned tasks, other than courtroom assignments, at the discretion of Chief Court Officer or the Court Operations Manager.

Scheduled hours of work generally conform to public court hours, but assignments may extend beyond those hours. Occasional travel to other courts within the State of Vermont may be required. Travel will be reimbursed according to State policies. This position will be eligible for longevity increases in accordance with the State step pay plan and annual cost of living increases as enacted by the Vermont State Legislature. Job Code # 26030

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills in all state government positions. The Judicial Branch is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity, and the recruitment process is designed to treat all applicants equitably.