Detention Assistant Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Atlanta, GA, United States

Position open until 7/15/2026

Salary: $72,800 - $74,509 annually

General Description and Classification Standards

This is an experienced, skilled, or technical level capable of carrying out most assignments typical of the position or specialty with limited guidance or review. This level would be considered a promotional level and attainable by any incumbents in a work group who demonstrate the necessary knowledge, ability, and performance. This position provides medical care to detainees, including intake screenings, administering treatments, and monitoring health conditions. Duties involve wound care, medication administration, and observing detainee progress. The LPN ensures consistent care and safety for all patients within the facility. This is a single-level class with a specific license requirement. Placement in this class is limited to appropriately licensed individuals who are providing nursing care.

Supervision Received

Works under very general supervision. May work independently or with other workers with responsibility for completion of assigned tasks.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities These are typical responsibilities for this position and should not be construed as exclusive or all inclusive.

• Conduct inmate medical screening interview upon admission by observing, assessing, and obtaining an overview of patient medical and mental history, or infectious disease history.
• Respond to any medical complaints from detainees; determine if additional assistance or medical care is required.
• Administer and document medications provided to detainees under medical orders from a physician. Ensure medications are correct, properly prescribed, and administered in a timely manner.
• Document any physical or behavioral concerns observed or reported by staff.
• Retrieve and/or enter data into computerized medical records system.
• Maintain frequently used clinical supplies.
• Ensure that emergency medical treatment equipment is inspected and ready for use.
• Provide information or training to other non-clinical staff regarding appropriate procedures for dealing with detainee medical problems or with staff or detainee medical emergencies.
• Follow standardized procedures and protocols within legal limits and physician orders.
• May oversee temporary or contract workers as needed and provide procedures training to others.
• Administer, wound care, injections, enemas, etc., as needed.
• Collect samples for lab testing and communicate with patients' pharmacy and doctors to provide advice and release instructions or records.
• Provide emotional and psychological support to patients when needed.
• Assist ailing patients in daily necessary activities and monitor their condition, including fluid intake and output.
• Compose and maintain patient charts, accurately recording medical history and measurements of blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate.
• Respond to medical emergencies promptly and effectively during medical rounds and intake assessments.
• Ensure inmates' questions and concerns are addressed during medical rounds and perform some clerical duties as required.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

The above statements reflect the general duties, responsibilities and competencies considered necessary to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the job and should not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements of the position. COA may change the specific job duties with or without prior notice based on the needs of the organization.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities This is a partial listing of necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job successfully, it is not an exhaustive list.

• Knowledge of basic clinical and medical processes appropriate to an institutional clinic setting.
• Knowledge of maintaining medical charts and records.
• Skilled in reading and writing appropriate to medical records and clinic environment.
• Ability to communicate with potentially difficult or impaired patients.
• Ability to react in an effective manner to medical emergencies.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Completion of an approved course of study leading to qualification as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
• Three (3) years of work experience as LPN in institutional setting, hospital, detention center, or a jail.
• Ability to complete an Electrocardiogram (EKG)

Licensures and Certifications

Must hold a current certificate in Georgia as a Licensed Practical Nurse, CPR/First Aide training.

Preferred Requirements

Minimum education requirement, plus four (4) years of work experience as an LPN in a detention center, jail, or similar setting.

Essential Capabilities and Work Environment

Required physical, lifting, and sensory capabilities are requirements to perform the job successfully. Typical environmental conditions associated with the job.

Lifting Requirements: Light work | Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force to move objects.

It is the policy of the City of Atlanta (“COA”) that qualified individuals with disabilities are not discriminated against because of their disabilities regarding job application procedures, hiring, and other terms and conditions of employment. Further, the policy of the COA is to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in all aspects of the employment process. The COA is prepared to modify or adjust the job application process or the job or work environment to make reasonable accommodations to the known physical or mental limitations of the applicant or employee to enable the applicant or employee to be considered for the position he or she desires, to perform the essential functions of the position in question, or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment as are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without disabilities, unless the accommodation will impose an undue hardship.

The City of Atlanta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran’s status or national origin, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.We value and encourage diversity in our workforce.

• Job Identification 34004
• Job Category Corrections
• Job Schedule Full time