Jail Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Why Join Our Team The Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office invites applications for Control Room Operators. Our Control Room Operators serve as an integral part of the correctional team working in the control room and front desk areas of the Jail. This position offers the opportunity to learn the inner workings of a Jail by working in a secure location away from direct contact with inmates.

No prior experience is required to be a Control Room Operator; all training is provided. The next new hire class starts on August 24, 2026. This position can be an excellent kick start to a career in corrections and law enforcement.

GREAT WAGES. The hiring range is $23.64 - $26.07/hr with a full earning potential up to $35.03/hr PLUS regular opportunities for pay increases. With good performance, new officers will receive up to 5% increases in pay after the first, second, AND third year IN ADDITION to annual increases

NIGHT SHIFT DIFFERENTIAL. Additional $1.00/hr for night shift differential. STRONG STAFFING LEVELS

We take a proactive approach to staffing so our 150+ employees can maintain a healthy work/life balance. BILINGUAL PAY. Specialty pay of an additional $0.50/hr (must pass bilingual exam)

PAID TRAINING. 7-8 weeks of classroom and on-the-job training. Small training classes mean all new officers get personal, 1:1 training.

EMPHASIS ON MENTAL AND PHYSICAL WELLBEING. The County offers employees and family members confidential counseling sessions along with access to financial resources, legal advisors, work and lifestyle support, and educational resources. The Jail has an onsite workout facility, and the County also offers gym reimbursement, wellness challenges, and health and fitness education throughout the year.

12-HOUR SHIFTS. Work 15 shifts a month and have Fri/Sat/Sun off every other week. Year-long, consistent schedules.

CAREER ADVANCEMENT. Experience as a Control Room Operator is a great way to prepare for promotion to a Correctional Officer. From there, possible opportunities for special assignments and promotions within the Jail Division include Transporter, Court Security Officer, Corporal, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Warden.

Our COs are also routinely promoted to Deputy Sheriff to become certified law enforcement officers with our Patrol Division. COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS. Generous PTO, Extended Sick Leave, Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance, Retirement through state pension plan - that means lifetime income provided THROUGHOUT retirement.

This position is classified as a Correctional Systems Operator. How You Will Make an Impact This position puts you at the center of facility operations, where your focus and judgment help keep everything moving safely and effectively. You'll make an impact by: Keeping eyes on the pulse of the facility by monitoring cameras, doors, radios, and security systems to ensure everything stays secure and runs efficiently.

Being the go-to voice for the public, visitors, and partner agencies, delivering clear answers and helpful guidance when they need it most. Coordinating professional and video visits. Managing keys, radios, and sensitive equipment with precision, making sure the right tools are always accounted for and in the right hands.

Overseeing movement throughout the facility and stepping in to prevent unauthorized access or unsafe situations. Supporting officers behind the scenes by keeping rounds on schedule, watching for potential issues, and coordinating quick responses when help is needed. Handling bonds, warrant payments, and financial transactions with a high level of accuracy.

Processing warrants, detainers, and legal documents that keep facility operations aligned with law enforcement and court requirements. Running essential database checks to verify information, identify risks, and help maintain a secure environment. Managing property releases and incoming items with care and attention to detail.

Keeping detailed logs that ensure clear communication, strong accountability, and smooth handoffs between shifts. Staying sharp during emergencies by coordinating responders, initiating safety protocols, and keeping people informed when seconds matter. Maintaining a clean, organized, and professional front desk and control room environment.

Pitching in with additional tasks that keep operations running efficiently and support the team's success What You Need to Succeed in this Role High school diploma or GED and one year of recent experience operating computers, accurately and rapidly. Comparable combination of education and experience may be considered. Must successfully complete pre-employment background process.

Ability to multitask and perform detail-oriented responsibilities. Must maintain ability to be a credible witness in court. Effective verbal and written communication.

Ability to build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with colleagues, other agencies, and the public. Present a professional appearance and communicate with others in a respectful and approachable way. Preferred, but not required, experience includes an associate or bachelor's degree in criminal justice.

Experience working in security or corrections. Knowledge of legal terminology. EEO Statement Minnehaha County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, sex or gender including pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran's status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by contacting Human Resources at (605) 367-4337.