Branch County

Position Summary:

The Correctional Deputy is responsible for the supervision, care, custody, and control of inmates housed in the Branch County Jail. This position ensures the safety, security, and orderly operation of the facility in accordance with Michigan State Law, Branch County policies, and established corrections practices. Correctional Deputies perform statutory and administrative duties to maintain jail security, protect the rights of inmates, and ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and constitutional standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Supervise inmates in housing units, booking areas, medical units, and other areas within the jail.
• Maintain order and enforce rules and regulations to prevent disturbances and escapes.
• Conduct headcounts, searches (inmates, cells, visitors, and incoming mail), and facility inspections.
• Monitor inmate behavior and intervene in crises or disturbances using approved techniques and protocols.
• Process inmate bookings, including fingerprinting, photographing, medical screening, and documentation.
• Maintain accurate records regarding inmate classification, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and incident reports.
• Escort inmates to and from court, medical appointments, work details, or other approved destinations.
• Ensure the physical and mental wellbeing of inmates, responding to emergencies, injuries, and behavioral health concerns.
• Administer medications and facilitate access to health care as directed by medical staff.
• Supervise the distribution of meals, commissary items, mail, and personal hygiene items.
• Respond to inquiries from inmates, family members, attorneys, and others in accordance with policy and confidentiality laws.
• Participate in training and maintain required certifications, including firearms, CPR, and defensive tactics.
• Assist with jail programs and rehabilitation efforts in collaboration with outside agencies and volunteers.

Statutory Requirements:

• Must meet the Michigan Sheriff's Coordinating and Training Council (MSCTC) standards for Corrections Officers, including:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Successful completion of the Local Corrections Officer Training Academy (LCOT) within one year of hire.
  • Pass a pre-employment MSCTC physical fitness test and reading/writing assessment.
  • Pass a background investigation, psychological screening, and drug test.
  • Possess a valid Michigan driver’s license and be a U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the U.S.
  • Maintain certification through continuing education as required by MSCTC.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods (8-12 hours).
• Must be able to physically restrain inmates and respond to physical altercations or emergencies.
• Must be able to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to climb stairs, stoop, bend, reach, and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Must maintain physical fitness sufficiently to meet state standards and respond quickly to emergency situations.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED (required).
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• No felony convictions or disqualifying criminal history.
• Must possess strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in a high-stress environment and make decisions under pressure.
• Must work varying shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Previous corrections or law enforcement experience preferred but not required.

Work Environment:

• The work is performed primarily in a secure correctional facility.
• Potential exposure to verbal abuse, physical confrontation, communicable diseases, and other hazardous conditions.
• Work involves direct contact with inmates who may be hostile, uncooperative, or mentally ill.

**Other Requirements after Application Process**

• After you have completed the application process, please review the minumum hiring requirements at Michigan Sheriff's Coordinating & Training Council webite located at www.misctc.org.
• You must complete and pass both a physical ability test and a written exam through the above mentioned website before we can schedule an interview. You will be contacted if we would like you to move forward with this process.