Lateral Corrections Officer - Jail Services

Job Summary

Are you an experienced Corrections Officer looking for a dynamic new opportunity? Clark County Jail Services is seeking dedicated lateral candidates to join our team and play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and security of our community from the inside. As a Lateral Corrections Officer, you bring valuable experience and existing certification, allowing for an expedited path to serving Clark County. You will be responsible for the around-the-clock operation of the jail, working various shifts (day, swing, grave), including weekends and holidays, on a '4 on 4 off' 12-hour schedule. If you're committed to public service, possess a strong ethical compass, and are ready to leverage your experience in a rewarding environment, we invite you to apply!

What is a Lateral Corrections Officer?

A Lateral Corrections Officer is an individual who has : Successfully completed a recognized state or local government basic corrections academy. Current or recent experience as a certified corrections officer in a comparable county, municipal, or state agency in the United States. The ability to gain Washington State certification through the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) Equivalency Academy process. This role allows you to bypass foundational training and integrate more quickly into our operations, bringing your skills and knowledge to our team.

Why Choose a Career with Clark County Jail Services?

Make a Difference : Your experience will directly contribute to the safety and well-being of your community. Leverage Your Expertise : As a lateral officer, your existing skills are valued and essential to our mission. Career Growth : Benefit from a career path with opportunities for advancement, including potential roles in training, specialized units, and leadership. Comprehensive Benefits : Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical, vision, and dental insurance, paid leave, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, retirement (Washington State Retirement System Plan), and deferred compensation. Hiring Incentives : Qualified lateral Corrections Officers may be eligible for hiring incentives up to $25,000, paid as : $8,000 on the first paycheck, $8,500 upon successful completion of probation, and $8,500 after 3 years of employment. Education Incentives : Employees are eligible for education incentives on base wages after completing probation. Compensation : 2025 Hourly wage range : $34.60 - $46.40. THIS POSITION IS OPEN FOR CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT.

Mission Statement The Clark County Jail Services Department is dedicated to protecting the community from the inside out. We accomplish this mission by providing a safe, secure, and humane environment for inmates while upholding the highest standards of public safety. We are committed to the professional development of our staff and fostering a work environment that is ethical, respectful, and inclusive.

Your Responsibilities

As a Lateral Corrections Officer, your duties will include, but are not limited to :

• Providing intake and release services for inmates, including interviews to determine medical and other special needs, and processing booking information.
• Maintaining order and ensuring the security of the Clark County Main Jail and Jail Work Center by supervising inmate activities and movement.
• Searching, fingerprinting, and photographing incoming inmates during booking procedures.
• Conducting searches for contraband to maintain a safe environment.
• Responding to emergencies (e.g., fire, riot, hostage situations) in accordance with established policies and procedures, demonstrating composure and quick decision-making.
• Preparing and transporting inmates for court appearances and other appointments.
• Enforcing rules and regulations within the jail facility.
• Monitoring inmate behavior, mental and physical health through visual and electronic means, and advising supervisors when attention is needed.
• Conducting regular security checks, screening visitors, and performing headcounts.
• Instructing inmates on jail rules and procedures, addressing rule violations, and writing violation reports.
• Monitoring security systems and all jail access.
• Performing related duties as assigned.

Commitment to Professionalism and Reliability

To effectively serve our community and maintain the integrity of our operations, excellent attendance is paramount. As an essential employee, you will be expected to work as assigned. The nature of our essential services requires flexibility in staffing, and while mandatory overtime may be necessary, there may also be opportunities for voluntary overtime.

Ideal Candidate Profile for Lateral Officers

We are seeking dedicated and experienced individuals who meet the following qualifications :

Equivalency Process

Essential Skills and Abilities

Communication : Strong and clear communication skills to effectively interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds and give clear and concise instructions.

Problem-solving and Decision-making : Proven ability to analyze situations, assess risks, and make sound decisions.

Personal Attributes :

Ethical Conduct & Accountability : Adherence to high moral and ethical standards; takes ownership of actions.

Resilience and Composure : Ability to maintain composure in high-pressure environments; demonstrates maturity and self-awareness.

Cultural Awareness & Empathy : Understanding and respecting diverse cultural backgrounds; displays compassion.

Growth Mindset & Officer Integrity : Demonstrated desire for continuous learning; understanding of honesty and ethical conduct.

Selection Process Details

This is a continuous recruitment. We accept job applications throughout the year and create a competitive eligibility list that is valid for 6 months from completion of a successful background. Please see the details below to learn more about the hiring process

Steps

1. Application : All candidates must submit a job application through this site.

2. Written Test : All candidates must complete a written exam administered by Jail Services Recruitment and Training Team (Written-Weighted 100%) Written Exam scores of 70 or above are accepted.

3. Physical Test : All candidates, after successful completion of the written test will be invited to complete the Physical Ability test (P.A.T.). Candidates for the position of corrections officer must complete the PAT before they are eligible to interview.