Court Security Officer I

(This position is exempt from the State of Delaware Merit System)

Recruitment #092722-J65325-20300

Summary Statement

The class incumbent is responsible for maintaining order, providing security, and performing various court related duties in a court facility.  This is a uniformed position with court issued gear. 

Nature and Scope:
This is the first level in the Court Security Officer series.  Employees report to a technical supervisor and are responsible for performing the full range of court security related duties.  Employees enforce courtroom and court facility policies and procedures relative to safety, security and orderliness.  Work involves providing the first level of response for disruptions to court operations, which may include high-risk court cases.  Employees may have the power of arrest.  Employees may also listen through headset as court proceedings are electronically recorded to ensure the proceedings are accurately captured, including events such as opening statements, witnesses’ name, direct and cross examinations and summations.  Contacts include judicial officers, attorneys, jurors, witnesses, court personnel and the general public for the purpose of providing court information, explaining court processes, providing court security, controlling behavior and serving as a liaison between court participants.  

Essential Functions

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.

  • Enforces courtroom and court facility policies and procedures relative to safety, security and orderliness using defensive tactics and devices such as subduing individuals disturbing court proceedings, handcuffing and using chemical propellants.
  • Assesses potentially disruptive and violent situations and takes preventative actions; calms volatile situations, responds to emergencies and requests extra security.
  • Sets up, operates and maintains various electronic equipment such as paging systems, wireless microphones, audiovisual systems, audio and video recorders, overhead projectors, two way radios, metal detectors and surveillance cameras.
  • Directs individuals in court proceedings, notifies court personnel, attorneys and parties involved to be present in the courtroom, seats individuals in specific areas of the courtroom; checks in defendants and opens court by announcing the entrance of the judicial officer.
  • Inspects courtroom and court facility for explosives, firearms, and weapons.  Searches individuals entering court facility and confiscates unauthorized weapons.
  • Prepares records and reports such as log notes and incident reports; marks, logs and retrieves files, forms and related items and information for use by court staff.
  • Uses automated information systems such as civil and criminal case management systems, and criminal information systems to enter, update, modify, delete, retrieve, inquire or report on data.
  • Occasional use of strenuous, physical abilities to perform the necessary functions to meet the needs of the court.  

Job Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Court Security Officer I

Minimum Qualifications: Please address each item separately on the Minimum Qualifications page of the application.  Resumes may not be substituted for the application.  Failure to do so will result in disqualification. 

Applicants must meet each of the following qualifications.  Failure in any one area will result in a rating of “not qualified".

  1. Six months experience in security such as providing protective services to persons, facilities or grounds from trespassing, theft and other conditions. 
  2. Six months experience in record keeping which includes maintaining records, logs, and filing systems. 
  3. Six months experience in using an automated information system to enter, update, modify, delete, retrieve/inquire and report on data.
  4. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.

Additional Posting Information

Attachments to Applications:
  • Please do not submit copies of evaluations, letters of reference, training certificates, or college transcripts unless requested. 
  • If supplemental information is requested by the posting, be sure to include it when you submit your application prior to the closing date.
  • Applications or additional information will not be accepted after the closing date.
  • Resumes will not be accepted unless accompanied by the application.
This posting may be closed on or before April 3, 2022 upon filling the vacant position(s).

Conditions of Hire

A satisfactory criminal background check is required as a condition of hire and to maintain employment.
Direct deposit of paychecks is required as a condition of employment.

Benefits

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

Selection Process

The application and supplemental questionnaire are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position.  It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the supplemental questionnaire to include dates of employment, job title and job duties.  For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content.   Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.

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 Delaware State Jobs.

Accommodations

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 is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.