Jailer/Dispatcher

Position Purpose Under the general supervision of the Jail Administrator, this position is responsible for providing protective services, including dispatching law enforcement officers, fire departments, paramedics, and ambulance personnel in response to emergency and non-emergency calls. Additional responsibilities include admitting, supervising, caring for, and discharging inmates; maintaining County jail facilities; and performing related duties as assigned. Distinguishing Characteristics The Jailer/Dispatcher performs the majority of assigned duties independently while adhering to Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC) regulations, County policies, and established procedures.This position requires sound judgment, excellent communication and listening skills, and the ability to interpret and prioritize emergency and non-emergency calls. Employees must demonstrate professionalism, discretion, and the ability to safely and tactfully manage individuals in custody.The Houston County Jail may house adult and juvenile populations, including both male and female inmates. Background Check Requirement: Employment is subject to a criminal history background check. Certain criminal convictions may disqualify an individual from employment or continued employment. Essential Duties and Responsibilities 1. Dispatch 55% Dispatch sheriff's deputies, municipal police officers, fire departments, paramedics, and ambulance personnel in response to emergency and non-emergency calls throughout Houston County, including incorporated municipalities. Receive, interpret, assess, and prioritize incoming calls for service, ensuring appropriate emergency personnel and resources are dispatched. Provide law enforcement personnel and authorized agencies with motor vehicle registration information, driver's license status, criminal histories, warrants, and other relevant information. Respond to authorized requests for information from law enforcement agencies, court administration, license center personnel, and other authorized parties. Provide public service information, including weather conditions, road conditions, and other relevant updates. Prepare Initial Complaint Reports (ICRs) for incidents, including motor vehicle accidents, animal complaints, financial crimes, alarms, missing or runaway juveniles, detoxification transports, and other calls for service. Enter, update, and maintain criminal investigation information, warrants, and related records within the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and Minnesota criminal justice information systems. Transmit interstate and intrastate communications in accordance with applicable FBI, NCIC, and state regulations. Operate computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, emergency communications equipment, radios, telephones, and other dispatch technology. Maintain accurate records and documentation of calls, dispatch activities, and related communications. 2. Jail Duties 45% Process inmate admissions and bookings in accordance with established procedures and applicable regulations. Complete fingerprinting, identification, video-recorded statements when required, and intake documentation. Collect, inventory, document, and securely store inmates' personal property. Obtain and document personal, medical, and other required intake information. Assign housing accommodations and distribute bedding and personal hygiene supplies. Administer medications as prescribed and authorized under established medical protocols and facility policies. Conduct alcohol testing when authorized and required. Monitor inmate behavior, health, safety, and general welfare. Respond to jail emergencies, including physical altercations, medical emergencies, illness, and substance withdrawal symptoms. Assess emergency situations and take appropriate action in accordance with training, policies, and established procedures. Maintain facility security and ensure compliance with inmate supervision requirements. Communicate jail conditions, inmate concerns, security incidents, and significant activities to the Person in Charge or appropriate supervisor. Prepare inmate release and discharge documentation. Return personal belongings and clothing to inmates upon release. Serve meals and assist with laundry services, including inmate clothing, towels, and linens. Maintain cleanliness, sanitation, and general order within the jail facility. Perform additional duties related to inmate care, supervision, and facility operations as assigned. Position Requirements Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Pre-Employment Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment. Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate clearly and calmly during emergencies. Ability to assess rapidly changing situations, establish priorities, and respond appropriately under pressure. Proficiency in typing and entering information accurately while simultaneously handling emergency telephone calls. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Knowledge of, or ability to learn, enhanced 911 (E-911) procedures and emergency communications protocols. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, computer applications, radios, and communications equipment. Knowledge of, or ability to learn, law enforcement procedures, dispatch terminology, and radio communications practices. Ability to develop a working knowledge of Houston County geography, including highways, roads, municipalities, subdivisions, and map information. Ability to work independently while maintaining effective working relationships with law enforcement personnel, emergency responders, County employees, other agencies, and the public. Strong attention to detail, active listening skills, and the ability to accurately process information in stressful situations. Ability to maintain confidentiality and properly handle sensitive criminal justice and personal information. Ability to perform jail and dispatch responsibilities efficiently, accurately, and professionally during routine operations and emergencies. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Post-Employment Develop and maintain comprehensive knowledge of Minnesota Department of Corrections rules, regulations, and facility requirements. Obtain and maintain CPR and First Aid certification. Successfully complete required training and maintain applicable certifications associated with jail operations, emergency dispatching, and criminal justice information systems. Maintain proficiency in applicable County policies, procedures, and emergency response protocols. Education and Experience Applicants must meet one of the following qualification pathways: Option 1 At least one year of vocational training in corrections. At least one year of experience performing jail and/or emergency dispatch duties. Meet applicable minimum-age requirements for detention staff. OR Option 2 High school diploma or equivalent. Comparable work experience in corrections, emergency dispatching, law enforcement, or a related field. Meet applicable minimum-age requirements for detention staff. Minimum Age Requirement Detention staff must generally be at least 21 years of age at the time of employment. Individuals who are at least 18 years of age but younger than 21 may qualify if enrolled in or having completed coursework in a postsecondary educational program pursuing a degree in behavioral science, as permitted by applicable requirements. Physical and Environmental Requirements Must possess the physical strength and ability necessary to control or restrain inmates when required. Must be capable of responding effectively to emergency situations involving inmates, staff, or members of the public. Must submit to and successfully complete required tuberculosis screening prior to employment. Must be able to perform duties in a correctional environment involving potentially stressful, unpredictable, and hazardous situations. May be exposed to individuals who are ill, intoxicated, combative, or experiencing behavioral or medical emergencies. May be exposed to communicable diseases, unsanitary conditions, and other occupational hazards. Must be able to work in an environment where there is an ongoing potential for physical confrontation or injury. Must be capable of maintaining attention, concentration, and sound judgment during extended periods of emergency communications and inmate supervision. Reasonable Accommodations The duties and physical requirements described above represent the general functions of the position. Essential and non-essential functions may vary based on individual assignments. Houston County will consider reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws.