What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief of Jails and Courts - 010900 position at Wayne County, Michigan?
The
Chief of Jails and Courts
is a senior executive leader within the Wayne County Sheriff's Office, responsible for the strategic direction, policy development, and operational oversight of all jail and court-related functions. Operating under the authority of the Sheriff and in compliance with applicable federal and state laws, county policies, and collective bargaining agreements, this position directs and coordinates correctional and court operations through subordinate command staff.
This role ensures the safe, secure and constitutionally compliant management of correctional facilities, inmate populations, and
court services, while maintaining operational readiness in a high-risk, high-liability environment. The Chief establishes and enforces policies, manages personnel and resources, and oversees critical functions including custody operations, court security, and inmate transport.
court services, while maintaining operational readiness in a high-risk, high-liability environment. The Chief establishes and enforces policies, manages personnel and resources, and oversees critical functions including custody operations, court security, and inmate transport.
In addition, the position plays a key leadership role in advancing organizational effectiveness through data-driven decision-making, risk mitigation, workforce development, and the implementation of modern correctional practices. This executive is accountable for improving operational performance, reducing legal and financial exposure, and supporting the Sheriff’s broader public safety and system modernization objectives.
Required Tasks
- Provide executive leadership and command oversight of all jail and court operations.
- Oversee correctional facilities including intake, classification, housing, and release processes.
- Direct court security, prisoner transport, and coordination with judicial partners.
- Ensure compliance with Michigan Jail Standards, PREA, and constitutional requirements.
- Manage personnel, labor relations, and discipline in accordance with civil service and union agreements.
- Develop and manage operational budgets, staffing models, and cost controls.
- Lead strategic planning, modernization initiatives, and performance management systems.
- Coordinate with law enforcement, courts, and community stakeholders.
- Handles other such duties as assigned by the Sheriff or Undersheriff.
Educational and Experience Requirements
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Business Management or related field; OR
Master's degree preferred in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or related field.
AND
- Minimum of ten (10) to fifteen (15) years of progressively responsible experience in law enforcement, corrections, or a related public safety field, with significant experience in jail or detention operations preferred.
- Demonstrated command-level leadership experience (Captain rank or above, or equivalent), with responsibility for managing large-scale operations, personnel, and complex organizational functions.
- Proven experience overseeing correctional facility operations, including inmate management, security protocols, and compliance with applicable standards and regulations.
- Experience managing large operational budgets, resource allocation, and staffing models within a public sector or similarly structured organization.
- Demonstrated ability to lead within a civil service and collective bargaining environment, including experience with labor relations, disciplinary processes, and workforce management.
- Strong background in policy development, strategic planning, and organizational leadership, with the ability to implement operational improvements and drive performance outcomes.