Access Control Sergeant - MEDC

About the role

Under the supervision of the Administrative Captain, the Access Control Sergeant oversees facility access operations to ensure safety, security, and compliance with established procedures. This role includes supervising staff, managing entry and exit processes, and maintaining accountability for all individuals on-site. The position also supports the facility’s rehabilitative mission by promoting a safe, structured environment that encourages positive youth development, accountability, and professional conduct.

Responsibilities

• Directs and oversees all pedestrian and vehicle gate operations to ensure authorized access to the facility.
• Supervises assigned staff, ensures compliance with security procedures, and maintains accountability for all persons and vehicles entering and exiting the facility.
• Monitors and evaluates facility access points, security systems, and perimeter activities to identify potential security threats.
• Implements immediate corrective actions and coordinates responses to prevent escapes, contraband introduction, unauthorized access, and other security breaches.
• Ensures all visitors, contractors, volunteers, staff, vehicles, deliveries, and property entering the facility are properly screened and searched in accordance with agency policy and security procedures.
• Ensures all access control logs, visitor records, vehicle inspections, key inventories, gate activity reports, and related documentation are completed accurately.
• Monitors access control equipment and ensures operational readiness of all gate security systems.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for access control communications.
• Monitors radio traffic, security alarms, and surveillance systems; coordinates emergency notifications; and communicates critical information to facility leadership and response personnel.
• Performs other job-related duties and tasks as assigned by the supervisor to further support the agency’s mission and values.

Requirements

• A high school diploma.
• Must be an officer in compliance with and certified under CLEE (Continuing Law Enforcement Education) within six (6) months of employment.
• Must have an 80% rate on competency/proficiency exam and possess supervisor and teaching skills.
• Must be able to respond physically to emergency situations.
• Required to work shift hours (day, evening, night, weekend, and/or holidays) and be subject to mandatory overtime stay as needed by the facility.
• Must be able to maintain a valid state driver's license and operate a state vehicle.
• Must be able to follow a daily schedule, be accountable to facility processes, document events and activities, and supervise multiple youths effectively.
• Must be able to perform work within a secured facility relating to the custody, control, and transportation or recapture of youth within the jurisdiction of the Department of Juvenile Justice.
• Must be able to lift hands above the head, kneel on knees (together and individually) unsupported, and work in extreme heat/cold/humidity/inclement weather.
• Must be able to walk and/or stand for extended periods of time, sit in a desk chair for up to eight hours per day at least 5-7 days per week, and visually distinguish subjects at distances of up to 75 yards.
• Must be able to wear protective equipment in case of emergencies and attend required training to maintain CLEE certification.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of state laws, institutional rules, regulations, and requirements for the control of youth and Child Abuse Statutes.
• Knowledge of the purpose, methods, and practices of secure facilities.
• Knowledge of various methods of instructing, handling, and supervising youth in various activities.
• Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and both verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and initiative in a variety of situations.
• Ability to build healthy relationships with youth and effectively communicate with them to promote respect and trust, manage challenging behaviors in a mature and professional way, and in accordance with training.
• Ability to establish and maintain satisfactory working relationships with fellow employees, families, and the general public.

Preferred Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field, accompanied with experience supervising, mentoring, and interacting with at-risk youth.
• Must be 21 years of age with a valid driver's license and a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must have 18 months of experience in correctional, security, military, or police work.
• Must attend, pass, and maintain all required DJJ training courses.

Benefits

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Health, dental, and life insurance
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days of sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• State retirement plans and deferred compensation programs
• Discount Programs such as TicketatWork and WeSave