Cooke County is seeking qualified applicants for the position of

Detention Officer. This position performs specialized detention and correctional work focused on maintaining the care, custody, control, and security of inmates while ensuring their constitutional rights and welfare are protected.

Responsibilities include inmate intake and booking, inmate supervision, jail security operations, transportation duties, classification activities, property control, commissary support, and emergency response functions. This position requires sound judgment, attention to detail, professionalism, and the ability to work effectively in a secure correctional environment.

Essential Functions

Inmate Intake and Supervision

Admit, process, book, and search inmates entering the facility.

Ensure inmates are informed of jail procedures and allowed access to attorney and family communications.

Maintain inmate accountability and monitor housing assignments.

Conduct inmate escorts and perform searches upon inmate movement and return.

Security and Facility Operations

Patrol and monitor all jail areas to maintain safety and security.

Operate and monitor security cameras, emergency systems, and control functions.

Complete routine logs, reports, inmate counts, and shift documentation.

Participate in emergency response and extraction activities when assigned.

Support life safety, fire prevention, suppression, and emergency preparedness functions.

Inmate Services and Daily Operations

Supervise inmate trustee work assignments including:

Meal service

Laundry operations

Cleaning details

Kitchen and dock activities

Distribute clothing, linens, hygiene items, and supplies.

Process inmate mail and inspect incoming items for contraband.

Receive, inventory, secure, and return inmate property.

Administer prescribed and approved non-prescription medications as directed.

Assist visitors and answer public inquiries regarding inmate status.

Classification and Documentation

Perform inmate classification according to Texas Criminal Justice Standards.

Monitor custody status and update records for changes in charges or bond information.

Maintain accurate inmate records and complete required reports and documentation.

Monitor and respond to incoming communications and emails.

Additional Responsibilities

Prepare and transport inmates to court appearances, medical appointments, and other approved destinations.

Perform related duties as assigned.

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Minimum Qualifications

Must be

18 years of age or older

High School Diploma or GED required

Must be a

U.S. citizen

Valid Driver's License required

Must obtain

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Jailer Certification within one (1) year of employment

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Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Successful candidates should demonstrate:

Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions under pressure

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Ability to maintain discipline and security in a detention environment

Working knowledge of detention practices and inmate management principles

Ability to interpret and follow policies, procedures, and legal requirements

Experience using computers for documentation and data entry

Ability to prepare reports and maintain accurate records

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Cooke County jobs

Detention Officer