Correctional Staff Sergeant

This is the first line supervisor responsible for supervising and participating in the discipline and security of an assigned post inside and/or outside a secure facility. 

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class.  Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here. 

• Maintains control of inmates while escorting individuals or groups within the prison.
   
• Keeps accurate head counts of inmates in the assigned security post.
   
• Conducts periodic shakedowns of inmates and searches inmates, visitors, employees, cell blocks and/or other structures for such prohibited items as tools, weapons or other contraband.
   
• Operates manual and electronic locking systems.
   
• Enforces all rules, regulations and procedures affecting inmate discipline, security and safety.
   
• Observes inmate activities to detect unusual or prohibited behavior which may be a threat to the security of the facility or the safety of the inmate, other inmates, employees or visitors.
   
• Ensures inmates conform to proper standards of care as required for the living areas and personal hygiene.
   
• Maintains the custody of inmates during transport to other institutions and in the community for court appearances or a variety of appointments. 
   
• Prepares and maintains a daily log and routine reports of activities and incidents on the assigned shift using an automated information system to enter, update, retrieve and report on data.  
   
• May be required to train and care for K-9 including feeding, grooming and kennel maintenance.
   
• May enter institution as backup in riot control and shakedown activities.  May participate in the pursuit of escapees.

 JOB REQUIREMENTS for Correctional Staff Sergeant
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

1. Two years experience as a Correctional Sergeant or four years as a Correctional Corporal or equivalent experience in the CO/series. 
2. Three years experience in implementing and applying institutional/departmental rules, policies and procedures.
3. Two years experience in preparing, maintaining, and approving complex records, reports and logs using an automated information system.
4. One year experience in staff supervision which includes planning, assigning, reviewing, and evaluating the work of others. 
5. Knowledge of making recommendations on changes to policies, procedures and techniques that improve security.
6. Possession of a valid Driver’s License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

Incumbents working four or more hours of work between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. the following day will receive 5% shift differential pay.

Applicants may only apply if they are current permanent employees of the State of Delaware Department of Correction in a position covered by the Merit System who have completed their initial probationary period.

Appointees other than in-line promotions must successfully complete a Department training course in security and related areas prior to assignment.  This course is administered by the Department of Correction at the Employment Development Center.  Coursework includes physical, classroom and hands-on training.  Instruction is provided in the areas of inmate supervision, defensive tactics, riot control, weapons, report writing and emergency medical training.

Employees in a Correctional Officer (CO) series position will be eligible to retire under the provisions of HB363 if, at the time of retirement, they have completed twenty-five (25) years of pension creditable State service, and with at least twenty (20) of those years of pension creditable service as a CO series classified position.

This position is a classification organized under an exclusive bargaining representative (labor organization).  The candidate selected for this position shall be asked to join and pay dues to the labor organization or may, decline joining the labor organization and not pay dues or a fee.  The labor organization has been elected by employees as their representative for collective bargaining and other work related purposes.

To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/

Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email.  Please keep your contact information current.  You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at www.delawarestatejobs.com.

Examination: A written test is required.  You will need to retake the exam if you have not applied in DEL by 3/24/2010. Test study guides may be obtained by visiting the Human Resource Management web-site at  http://delawarestatejobs.com/explore/test-study-guides.shtml. Applicants scheduled for examinations will be required to show photo identification to the exam proctor before taking the exam.  All scheduling notices will be sent via email to the applicant.  Please check your email for your scheduled exam date.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.  To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.  The State of Delaware – An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.